Constructed sometime between the 7th and 12th centuries, the Po Nagar Cham Towers, which is situated just north of Nha Trang by the Cai River, is the name for the primary temple in the Po Nagar Cham Complex. These days, it’s still an operating place of worship, and just four of the original towers remain from what used to be seven or eight.

The site was constructed to sanctify Yan Po Nagar, a goddess whose statue is featured at the towers and is accompanied by representations of the Hindu goddesses Bhagavati and Mahishasuramardini.

History

Po Nagar Cham Towers. Photo: Binh Huynh

The Cham Kingdom once ruled the central Vietnam plains around the Nha Trang area, which became the site for the original Po Nagar temples and towers. Initially, they were constructed between the 7th and 11th centuries, focusing on honoring the goddess Po Nagar. They were rebuilt over the years, but the original place of worship remained in the same area.

It was renovated with better materials as time went along. Even though the grounds have endured many pirate raids, the buildings are in decent condition overall, thanks to careful preservation. The complex is still a functioning location for Buddhists, and the buildings are kept in immaculate shape.

There are still some Cham people residing in this area of Vietnam, but they are now one of the country’s minority ethnic groups.

Rules for Visiting the Towers

The towers are still considered religious buildings, so people need to cover their arms and legs before going inside. Heads should be uncovered, and if you’re not wearing appropriate clothing for entering, a hooded cloak-like piece of attire will be given to you to wear inside.