Ancient Cham Towers in Khánh Hoà attract throngs of tourists
In the heart of Vietnam's south central coast lies Khanh Hoa Province, a region steeped in history and rich cultural heritage. Two of its most significant landmarks, the Po Nagar and Po Klong Garai complexes, stand as enduring testaments to the Cham civilization that once flourished in the area.
The Po Nagar Tower Complex, perched on Cu Lao Hill overlooking the Cai River in northern Nha Trang, was built between the 8th and 13th centuries. It is dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar, who is revered as the "Mother of the Land" by the Cham people. The complex, an integral part of local communities, both Cham and Vietnamese, comprises four red brick Cham-style towers with intricate carvings that reflect the profound influence of Hinduism on Cham artistry and spirituality.
The Po Klong Garai Complex, located on Trau Hill in Do Vinh ward, was built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries. It honours King Po Klong Garai, a celebrated Cham ruler known for his leadership in resisting foreign invaders and his contributions to local irrigation and agricultural development. The complex, deeply embedded in the spiritual and cultural life of the Cham Balamon community in southern Khanh Hoa, serves as the focal point for the annual Kate Festival, a major traditional celebration of Cham heritage.
The Main Tower at the Po Klong Garai complex stands 20.5 meters high, famously constructed from red baked bricks assembled without visible mortar—a construction technique that remains a mystery and adds to the site's enigmatic charm. Together with the Hoa Lai tower, it was declared a Special National Monument in 2016, and the statue of King Po Klong Garai was designated a National Treasure in 2024.
Both complexes are celebrated as prime examples of Cham architecture and spiritual heritage, attracting growing numbers of tourists and scholars. Their preservation and recognition as Special National Heritage sites affirm their value, not only as historical monuments but also as living cultural centers that exemplify the rich, intertwined history of the Cham and Vietnamese peoples in Khanh Hoa Province.
Visitors to these sites can enjoy Cham folk music and dance performances on weekends and holidays, as well as two epic shows, Linh Thiêng Xứ Trầm and Trăng Soi Dáng Tháp, staged on the first and 15th of each lunar month. Traditional craft shows featuring artisans from Bàu Trúc pottery village and Mỹ Nghiệp weaving village are also popular destinations.
Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyễn Văn Hoà is working to keep the legacy of the Cham alive, ensuring these historical and cultural treasures continue to inspire and educate future generations. The Po Nagar and Po Klong Garai complexes, with their intricate designs, spiritual significance, and historical importance, stand as a testament to the resilience and artistic achievement of the Cham civilization, while continuing to function as cultural and religious landmarks integral to the identity of the region.
- The enigmatic charm of the Po Klong Garai Complex lies in its Main Tower, constructed from red baked bricks without visible mortar, a technique that remains a mystery.
- The Cham folk music and dance performances, alongside traditional craft shows, add to the cultural richness of visits to the Po Nagar and Po Klong Garai complexes.
- The Po Nagar Tower Complex, dedicated to the goddess Po Nagar, showcases the profound influence of Hinduism on Cham artistry and spirituality.
- The preservation of the Po Nagar and Po Klong Garai complexes, woven into the history and identity of Khanh Hoa Province, is a testament to the resilience and artistic achievements of the Cham civilization.
