Why My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO Heritage Site & Global Cultural Treasure

01/06/2025 Paul Lee

The History of My Son Sanctuary Vietnam is deeply rooted in Central Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry. This ancient site, often compared to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, will impress anyone who has a love for history and culture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son was once at the heart of the royal religion of the Champa Kingdom

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These ancient Champa Kingdom temples were built and perfected over a thousand years by the talented Cham people with their deep devotion to their gods.

At VIET DOVE Travel, I had the chance to experience this mystical place, and I am so excited to present to you: Why My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO Heritage Site & Global Cultural Treasure. Let's look at some of the reasons why My Son is a world-class wonder.

These ancient Champa Kingdom temples were built and perfected over a thousand years by the talented Cham people with their deep devotion to their gods.

Ancient stone ruins and towers at My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, surrounded by lush greenery

My Son: A Gem of Ancient Southeast Asian Culture

As author Phạm Huy Thông wrote in Champa Sculpture, "My Son represents a unique, high culture, not inferior to any ancient or medieval culture in Southeast Asia." I completely agree! My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam was a sacred center of worship for the Cham royal family to honor their kings and gods.

I was amazed at the detailed carvings as I walked amongst the temples, stone whispers the brilliance of the Champa culture.

Are you ready to witness this moment in time for yourself? A historical tour of My Son Sanctuary will take you through the stories behind these amazing ruins!

Ancient Cham sculpture exhibit inside My Son Sanctuary’s museum, showcasing Vietnam’s historical art.

The Unique Cultural Fusion of Cham and Hindu Traditions

The Cham people created something magnificent by blending their culture with Hindu architecture in Vietnam. It’s like meeting a friend from across the world, discovering shared values, and creating something new together.

Over a thousand years ago, the Cham engaged in trade with India and the West. They believed in gods of nature: the mountain god, forest god, sea god...

They adopted Hinduism because it matched their agricultural society and gave them structure in politics, religion, and social order.

Standing in the sanctuary of My Son, I could feel the connection to both Cham and Hindu traditions — a cultural love story in stone. The beauty of this place shines through on an Unforgettable My Son sunrise private tour from Hoi An, especially when the light gently touches the towers.

Intricate stone carvings on a Cham tower at My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam.

My Son uniquely embraced culture

The Cham didn’t simply adopt Hinduism — they transformed it. Their biggest festival, Kate, celebrates the harvest and new year, and is unique 100% to Cham culture (not found in India).

They chose the secluded, mountainous valley of My Son as a spiritual site, different from Angkor Wat’s open plains, because it better fit their beliefs about sacred places. My Son’s location makes it stand apart.

If you want to dive deeper into both history and daily life, I recommend the Signature My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha pottery village private tour from Hoi An & Danang.

Serene lotus pond with a wooden bridge near My Son Sanctuary, framed by lush mountains in Vietnam

From Hidden Gem to UNESCO World Heritage Site

The world’s recognition of My Son Sanctuary began in 1898 with French researchers like C. Camille, Finot, and H. Parmentier. Later, in the 1980s, Polish architect Kazik played a major role in preservation.

Their combined work, along with the Vietnamese government, led to My Son being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

You can explore these efforts and more during a History of My Son Sanctuary tour in Vietnam.

Let's Discover the Global Treasure of My Son

Now you know why My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO Heritage Site & Global Treasure — a breathtaking symbol of the Champa Kingdom’s greatness, of cultural fusion, and of spiritual depth.

Traditional dance performance at My Son Sanctuary during a vibrant sunset, highlighting Vietnam’s culture.

At VIET DOVE Travel, I’ve seen how My Son captivates every traveler. I believe it will enchant you too.

📸 Book a History of My Son Sanctuary tour in Vietnam to walk through the stories.

🌄 Choose an Unforgettable My Son sunrise private tour from Hoi An for magical light and serenity.

🏺 Or go for the Signature My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha pottery village tour for a unique cultural combination.

Let us help you uncover the mysteries and magic of this extraordinary destination.