Po Nagar Cham Towers
Po Nagar Cham Towers are a cluster of well-preserved Cham temple towers built between the 7th and 12th centuries, dedicated to the mother goddess Yan Po Nagar. Located on a hill overlooking the Cai River and Nha Trang Bay, the complex showcases classic Cham brickwork, carved stone sculptures and active Hindu-Buddhist shrine practices still observed by locals.
Location
Po Nagar Cham Towers (Tháp Bà Po Nagar), Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Vietnam
Duration
Typical visit: 45–90 minutes (short visit) — 2–3 hours if attending rituals, exploring thoroughly or combining with nearby sites.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: February–April (dry, less humid). Best times of day: early morning (8:00–10:00) or late afternoon (16:00–18:00) for softer light, fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Pricing
Approximate entrance fee: 20,000–40,000 VND (~0.8–1.6 USD) per person. Prices can change and there may be a small additional fee for photography or visiting certain inner sanctuaries. Cash is preferred.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Ancient Cham architecture: Intricate red-brick towers built without mortar using traditional Cham techniques.
Main tower (Kalan): The tallest and most important shrine housing the statue of the goddess Yan Po Nagar.
Panoramic views: Overlooks the Cai River and parts of Nha Trang city and coastline.
Living shrine: Active place of worship with daily offerings, incense and occasional Cham music or ceremonial events.
Stone sculptures and lintels: Detailed carvings showing Hindu and local motifs.
Nearby cultural sites: Easy to combine with Long Son Pagoda, Nha Trang Cathedral or the Dam Market for a fuller half-day tour.
Itinerary
Arrive at the Po Nagar parking/entrance area and buy tickets.
Have small cash ready; expect a short walk uphill from the entrance. Accessible by taxi, motorbike or local tour shuttle.
Climb the stone steps and pass smaller shrines and statues.
Take time to observe the carved lintels and the layout of the complex; steps can be uneven.
Explore the main Po Nagar towers, view the central idol and offerings.
Inside areas may require shoes off; be respectful during prayers and avoid flash photography if requested.
Walk to viewpoint areas for photos overlooking the river and city.
Late afternoon gives warm light; watch for other visitors during busy hours.
Attend or observe a local ritual (if happening), visit nearby stalls or continue to Long Son Pagoda.
Full moon and certain festival days are particularly lively; combine with other Nha Trang attractions for a half-day.
Safety Requirements
Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees (it's an active religious site).
Remove shoes when entering inner sanctuaries if required.
Watch your step: uneven stone steps and some steep areas.
Stay hydrated and use sun protection — little shade on sunny days.
Respect worshippers: avoid loud behavior and asking people for photos without permission.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing uneven steps.
Carry small change (VND) for the entrance fee, donations or buying incense from vendors.
Visit early or late to avoid midday heat and the largest tour groups.
Combine nearby sites: Long Son Pagoda and Nha Trang Cathedral make good additions to the same outing.
Be mindful during ceremonies: Full moon and festival days are culturally rich but busier — excellent for photos but be extra respectful.
Photography: Shots looking down toward the river and the red-brick towers at sunset are especially attractive; avoid flash in worship areas.
