Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary and Sunset River Cruise With BBQ

Hoi An, a picturesque town in central Vietnam, is home to the UNESCO-protected My Son Sanctuary, an impressive collection of ancient Hindu temples that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Cham civilization. Visitors can explore this archaeological wonder on a guided tour, learning about the architectural brilliance and religious significance of the site. But the experience doesn’t end there – a sunset cruise along the serene Thu Bon River, complete with a delectable BBQ meal and local wine tasting, promises to immerse travelers in the region’s captivating traditions and natural beauty. The opportunity to witness a Cham dance performance adds an extra layer of cultural authenticity to this enriching excursion.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best BBQ Experiences In Hoi An.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary, featuring ancient Hindu temples from the 4th to 13th centuries.
• Enjoy a guided tour of the cultural and architectural significance of the Cham civilization’s heritage.
• Witness a captivating Cham dance performance with graceful movements, intricate hand gestures, and vibrant costumes.
• Indulge in a scenic sunset river cruise along the Thu Bon River, accompanied by a delectable BBQ meal and locally-produced wines.
• Immerse in the local culture, cuisine, and traditions, creating a memorable experience during the 5.5-hour tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Highlights

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary, where they’ll discover ancient Hindu temples and learn about their cultural significance.

Travelers will also enjoy a Cham dance performance, a scenic sunset river cruise along the Thu Bon River, and a delightful BBQ meal featuring local cuisine and wine tasting.

The My Son Sanctuary is a remarkable archaeological site that showcases the remnants of once-grand Hindu temples, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The Cham dance performance and river cruise provide opportunities to take in the local traditions and natural beauty of the area, while the BBQ meal allows visitors to savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Duration and Pickup

The tour duration is 5.5 hours, and the pickup location is Hoi An. Travelers will be transported by van for an hour to reach the iconic My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After a 15-minute coffee break, the group will embark on a guided tour of the ancient Hindu temples, learning about their cultural significance over the course of two hours.

The tour then transitions to a boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, where guests will enjoy a delightful BBQ meal. This sunset river cruise lasts for half an hour, providing a tranquil and picturesque conclusion to the day’s activities.

Tour Activities

After the 1-hour van transfer to My Son Sanctuary, visitors enjoy a 15-minute coffee break before embarking on a 2-hour guided tour of the ancient Hindu temples, learning about their cultural significance.

The tour then transitions to a 30-minute boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, where guests delight in a BBQ meal while taking in the picturesque sunset views.

The tour activities include:

• Van transfer to My Son Sanctuary
• Coffee break
• Guided tour and sightseeing at My Son Sanctuary
• Boat cruise and BBQ meal on Thu Bon River
• Taking in the local culture and cuisine

Inclusions

The tour package includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off ensure convenient transportation, while an English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Visitors can enjoy a refreshing Vietnamese coffee during the break and savor a delectable BBQ meal as they cruise along the Thu Bon River at sunset.

Plus, entry tickets to the My Son Sanctuary UNESCO World Heritage site are provided, and bottled water is available throughout the tour.

This comprehensive package allows guests to enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the region, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free adventure.

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Booking and Cancellation

Booking this immersive tour is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing guests with flexibility in their travel plans. This allows travelers to easily adjust their itinerary if needed, without worrying about non-refundable fees.

Some key benefits of the booking and cancellation policy include:

• Ability to reserve your spot without immediate payment
• Option to cancel for free up to 1 day before the tour
• Hassle-free changes to your travel plans
• Confidence in booking a tour that fits your schedule
• Convenience of a seamless booking and cancellation process

UNESCO World Heritage Site

My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient Hindu temples that once dominated the Champa Kingdom’s cultural landscape.

Nestled in a lush valley in central Vietnam, this archaeological site showcases the architectural brilliance and religious significance of these 4th to 13th century structures, which have withstood the test of time despite the ravages of war and natural disasters.

Guided tours allow visitors to explore the ruins, learn about the Cham civilization’s rich heritage, and witness the remnants of towering brick temples that once stood as a testament to the region’s profound spiritual and artistic traditions.

This well-preserved site provides an immersive cultural experience for those seeking to explore Vietnam’s fascinating history.

Cham Dance Performance

Along With exploring the ancient Hindu temples, visitors to the My Son Sanctuary can also witness a captivating Cham dance performance that showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.

These traditional dances, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into the artistic expressions and religious rituals of the Cham people, who once dominated this area of central Vietnam.

The Cham dances feature:

• Graceful, flowing movements
• Intricate hand gestures and facial expressions
• Vibrant, ornate costumes and headdresses
• Rhythmic drumming and hauntingly beautiful melodies
• Reenactments of mythological stories and legends

Witnessing these mesmerizing performances provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Cham culture, which has endured despite centuries of political upheaval and foreign influences in the region.

Local Cuisine and Wine Tasting

After exploring the ancient temples and witnessing the captivating Cham dance performance, visitors can delight in a delectable BBQ meal featuring local cuisine and a wine tasting, further seeing the rich cultural experience.

The BBQ spread showcases a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes, from grilled meats and seafood to fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Paired with locally-produced wines, the meal offers a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the palate.

As the sun sets over the Thu Bon River, guests can savor the regional specialties and appreciate the nuances of the carefully selected wines, creating a truly memorable culinary journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves both walking and a boat cruise. No formal attire is required for this experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages as the activities are generally easy and accessible. Children can participate, but parents should supervise their little ones during the tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

Yes, guests can request a vegetarian or halal meal for the BBQ meal during the tour. The tour operator is able to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice when booking the tour.

How Accessible Is the My Son Sanctuary for Those With Mobility Issues?

The My Son Sanctuary has some accessibility challenges for those with mobility issues. There are uneven paths and steps throughout the site, making it difficult to navigate for those using wheelchairs or who have limited mobility. However, the tour operator can provide assistance if needed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator offers flexibility to extend the tour duration. Travelers can arrange for a longer visit to My Son Sanctuary or request additional time for the sunset river cruise and BBQ meal by contacting the tour provider in advance.

Recap

The My Son Sanctuary tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the ancient Cham temples and witness the region’s captivating heritage.

The Cham dance performance, BBQ meal, and scenic river cruise further enhance the experience, providing a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam’s rich traditions.

With the UNESCO World Heritage status and breathtaking sunset views, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s fascinating history and natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: