Ancient red-brick temple clusters of the Champa Kingdom nestled in a peaceful forested valley
Why visit My Son Sanctuary?
Hidden in a green valley surrounded by forested mountains, My Son Sanctuary is one of Central Vietnam’s most remarkable cultural sites. Its red-brick temple towers preserve traces of the Champa civilization and its Hindu spiritual traditions.
Unlike the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, My Son offers a quieter, more archaeological experience. Walk among the temple groups, learn about the Cham kingdom, visit the small museum and, if the schedule allows, watch a traditional Cham dance performance.
In this guide
Hoi An or Da Nang: where should you start?
From Hoi An
Usually the easiest option, with a shorter drive and a relaxed return before lunch. Recommended pickup: 7:00–7:30 AM.
From Da Nang
Ideal for guests staying near My Khe Beach, in the city centre or around the airport. Leave around 6:45–7:00 AM.
Da Nang → My Son → Hoi An
A convenient choice when checking out of Da Nang and moving to Hoi An. Tell us in advance if you have luggage.
Hoi An → My Son → Da Nang
Visit the sanctuary in the morning, then finish at your Da Nang hotel, airport or another agreed drop-off point.
Travel time varies with pickup location, traffic and road conditions. Confirm your pickup time and final route when booking.
Suggested half-day itinerary
This schedule is a guide, not a fixed group-tour timetable. Your driver can adjust the pickup and return time to suit your plans.
Hotel pickup
Meet your driver at your hotel or another agreed pickup point and travel through the countryside towards My Son.
Arrive at My Son Sanctuary
Purchase or validate your entrance ticket, then use the electric shuttle to reach the main temple area if operating as usual.
Explore the temple groups
Walk around the Cham towers, learn about their architecture and history, and visit the museum. Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths.
Watch a Cham dance performance
If a performance fits your visit, enjoy traditional dance and music. Show times can change, so confirm the current schedule at the entrance.
Meet your driver and return
Relax in the air-conditioned car on the way back to Hoi An, Da Nang or your pre-arranged destination.
Entrance tickets, shuttle and cultural show
The source guide lists the following ticket prices as a reference. Prices, inclusions and operating arrangements may change, so confirm them with the official ticket counter before your visit.
| Item | Reference price / details |
|---|---|
| Adult entrance ticket | 150,000 VND |
| Child ticket (ages 5–15) | 75,000 VND |
| Children under 5 | Free (confirm at entry) |
| Electric shuttle | Reported as included with admission |
| Cham dance show | Schedule may vary by day |
Ticket prices are indicative only and are not included in the private car price unless explicitly stated in your booking confirmation.
Private car price guide
Book a round-trip vehicle with a driver who waits while you explore. This is especially useful because return transport can be limited around the rural sanctuary.
| Round-trip route | Vehicle | Price (VND) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Da Nang ⇄ My Son ⇄ Da Nang | 4-seat sedan | 800,000 VND | US$30 |
| Da Nang ⇄ My Son ⇄ Da Nang | 7-seat MPV | 900,000 VND | US$35 |
| Da Nang ⇄ My Son ⇄ Da Nang | 16-seat minibus | 1,200,000 VND | US$46 |
| Hoi An ⇄ My Son ⇄ Hoi An | 4-seat sedan | 650,000 VND | US$26 |
| Hoi An ⇄ My Son ⇄ Hoi An | 7-seat MPV | 750,000 VND | US$30 |
| Hoi An ⇄ My Son ⇄ Hoi An | 16-seat minibus | 1,000,000 VND | US$40 |
USD values are approximate for easy reference. Confirm the final quote, vehicle type, pickup address, waiting time and any additional drop-off before confirming. These are the listed reference rates, not a live availability quote.
Typically included
- Private vehicle for your party
- Hotel pickup and agreed return
- Driver waiting during the visit
- Air-conditioned transport
Typically not included
- Entrance tickets
- Tour guide or personal guide fee
- Meals, drinks and personal expenses
- Unconfirmed extra stops or overtime
Please confirm inclusions and exclusions with us when booking; the written confirmation takes priority.
Private car or group tour?
| Option | Best for | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Private car | Families, couples, flexible pickup, luggage | Transport is private; guide and tickets may cost extra |
| Group tour | Solo travellers and budget-conscious visitors | Fixed departure, stops and group pace |
| One-way taxi / app | Potentially getting to the site | Return rides can be difficult to find in the rural area |
For the simplest experience, arrange your return journey in advance rather than relying on finding a car after your visit.
What to bring and what to wear
- Comfortable walking shoes or secure sandals for uneven paths
- Water, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Lightweight clothing suitable for warm, humid weather
- A fully charged phone or camera
- Some cash and ticket or booking details
- Extra time in your schedule in case of weather or traffic delays
There is limited shade around some temple areas. Take breaks when needed, follow site signage and avoid climbing on or touching fragile ruins.
Frequently asked questions
Is My Son Sanctuary a half-day or full-day trip?
For most visitors, it is a half-day trip. Allow around 4–5 hours in total from Hoi An, and a little longer from Da Nang depending on your pickup point and traffic.
What is the best time to visit?
Early morning is generally the most comfortable choice. A departure around 7:00–7:30 AM from Hoi An or 6:45–7:00 AM from Da Nang helps you arrive before the busiest part of the day. Afternoon visits may also work; confirm opening hours first.
Are entrance tickets included in the car price?
Usually, the quoted private car price covers transport only. Tickets, guides, meals and personal expenses are generally separate unless your booking confirmation says otherwise.
Can the driver wait while we visit?
Yes, the service is intended as a pre-arranged round trip with waiting time. Confirm the planned duration and any overtime conditions before booking.
Can I travel from Da Nang to My Son and finish in Hoi An?
Yes. This route is practical if you are changing hotels. Mention your final drop-off and luggage quantity when requesting a quote.
Is a guide necessary?
A guide is not essential, but historical context can make the Cham temple architecture and symbolism much easier to understand. Ask about guide availability and fees if you would like one.
What happens if it rains?
Conditions can change quickly. Bring a light rain jacket, check the forecast and confirm any site access updates before departure. Your driver can help coordinate timing, but site access decisions are made by the local authorities.
How do I book?
Send your date, pickup location, number of passengers, preferred departure time and destination after the visit via WhatsApp. We can then confirm availability and the final price.
Ready to explore My Son?
Tell us your pickup city, travel date and group size for a clear private-car quote.
