Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary W Guide , Champa Show, Boat & Lunch

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s Champa civilization on this immersive 6-hour excursion. Uncover the architectural wonders of the ancient My Son Sanctuary, witness the captivating Apsara-Shiva dance performance, and savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine. But that’s not all – learn about the tranquility of the Thu Bon River as you embark on a scenic boat trip. This tour promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you yearning to discover more.

Good To Know

• A 6-hour guided tour of the My Son Sanctuary, including pickup from Hoi An or Da Nang and a 2.5-hour exploration of the ancient temple-towers.
• Cultural experiences, such as an Apsara-Shiva dance performance, a traditional rice paper making workshop, and a boat trip along the Thu Bon River.
• Lunch at the on-site My Son Restaurant, featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
• Opportunities to spot wildlife in the surrounding lush valley, including monkeys, hog deer, and various bird species.
• Insights into the Champa civilization (4th to 13th centuries) and the Hindu religious and architectural elements of the My Son Sanctuary.

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Overview of My Son Sanctuary Tour

The My Son Sanctuary tour offers visitors a chance to explore one of Asia’s oldest Hindu temple complexes.

This 6-hour guided excursion takes travelers from Hoi An or Da Nang to the ruins, where they’ll spend 2.5 hours learning about the site’s rich history.

Participants can also watch an Apsara-Shiva dance performance, spot local wildlife, and try their hand at making rice paper.

Lunch at the on-site restaurant and a boat trip along the Thu Bon River round out the experience.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, and an English-speaking guide, this tour provides an immersive look at this UNESCO-listed wonder.

Pickup Locations and Meeting Point

This tour offers pickup from two locations – Hoi An and Da Nang.

If you’re staying in Hoi An, you’ll be picked up between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM. Guests from Da Nang will be picked up earlier, between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM, but this comes with an extra fee of 300,000 VND for 4 or 7-seater cars.

Regardless of your pickup location, the meeting point is 143 Ly Thai To in Hoi An at 7:30 AM.

From there, you’ll embark on your guided tour of the My Son Sanctuary and other activities.

Exploring the My Son Sanctuary

After being picked up from Hoi An or Da Nang, guests embark on a guided tour of the historic My Son Sanctuary.

During the 2.5-hour exploration, they’ll wander amid the ancient temple-towers, learning about the Champa civilization that flourished here from the 4th to 13th centuries.

The guide shares insights into the Hindu religious and architectural elements. Guests may spot wildlife in the surrounding valley and watch an Apsara-Shiva dance performance.

They’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Asia’s most significant Hindu temple complexes.

Apsara-Shiva Dance Show

At the My Son Sanctuary, visitors can witness the mesmerizing Apsara-Shiva dance performance.

This captivating show blends the ancient dance traditions of the Champa Kingdom with the mythological stories of the Hindu gods Shiva and Apsara. Dancers gracefully depict the tale through their fluid movements, elaborate costumes, and intricate footwork.

The performance provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, transporting viewers back in time.

The performance transports viewers back in time, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Don’t miss this enchanting display of Vietnamese performing arts during your visit to the My Son Sanctuary.

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Observing Wildlife in the Valley

Visitors may spot a variety of wildlife during their visit to the My Son Sanctuary.

The lush, forested valley surrounding the ancient Hindu temples provides a habitat for various species:

1. Monkeys: Macaques and langurs can often be seen swinging through the trees or foraging on the ground.

2. Deer: Timid but graceful Hog deer may emerge from the thickets, especially during the early morning or late afternoon.

3. Birds: Birdwatchers can look for vibrant pheasants, woodpeckers, and a host of colorful migratory birds.

4. Reptiles: Sharp-eyed visitors may catch glimpses of monitor lizards, geckos, or snakes slithering through the undergrowth.

Enjoying Local Cuisine at My Son Restaurant

Lunch at the My Son Restaurant offers guests a chance to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the serene backdrop of the My Son Sanctuary.

The menu features noodle dishes with a choice of chicken, pork, or shrimp, as well as vegetarian options. Theres some good delectable flavors and experience the local culinary traditions.

The lunch also includes a refreshing dessert and soothing tea, providing a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

This component of the tour allows visitors to enjoy the cultural heritage of the region while enjoying a delicious and nourishing meal.

Learning Traditional Craft: Rice Paper Making

As part of the tour, guests have the opportunity to learn the traditional craft of rice paper making from a local artisan.

The process involves:

1. Soaking and grinding rice into a smooth batter.

2. Pouring the batter onto a flat surface and smoothing it out.

3. Drying the thin, delicate sheet in the sun.

4. Cutting and shaping the dried rice paper for various culinary and decorative uses.

Participants gain insight into this time-honored technique, which has been an integral part of Vietnamese culture for centuries.

The hands-on experience adds a unique, enriching element to the overall My Son Sanctuary tour.

Boat Trip Along the Thu Bon River

After exploring the historic My Son Sanctuary, visitors embark on a serene boat trip along the Thu Bon River.

The boat glides through the tranquil waterway, offering a chance to admire the lush, verdant landscapes that line the riverbanks.

As they float along, travelers may catch glimpses of local life, with villagers going about their daily activities.

The boat ride provides a peaceful respite from the tour, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

This gentle journey on the Thu Bon River completes the immersive experience at My Son Sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for customers who need to change their plans.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour group size is limited to 14 participants, according to the tour overview. This small group size ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier navigation of the historic My Son Sanctuary site.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Dietary-Specific Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or dietary-specific lunch for this tour. The itinerary includes a lunch at My Son Restaurant with vegetarian options available to accommodate different dietary needs.

Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there is a discount available for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 5 years old receive a 50% discount, while seniors over 65 can get a 10% discount on the tour price.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The tour provider offers private tours with flexible group sizes, allowing you to customize the experience to your group’s needs. Prices may vary based on the group size.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Explore the ancient My Son Sanctuary, enjoy a captivating dance performance, savor authentic cuisine, and learn the traditional craft of rice paper making. Conclude your adventure with a serene boat trip along the picturesque Thu Bon River, providing a well-rounded cultural experience in Hoi An.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby