1. Where is Duong Long Cham Temple? How to get there?
Duong Long Cham Temple, also known as An Chanh, Binh An, or Nga Towers, is a nationally recognized heritage site and one of the most outstanding monuments of Cham culture. They represent the fusion of traditional Champa artistry with Khmer architectural influence. The towers stand on a hilltop in Binh An Commune, Gia Lai Province (formerly Tay Binh, Tay Son District, Binh Dinh Province), about 50 kilometers from Quy Nhon.
From the center of Quy Nhon, visitors can reach the towers by following this route: Dong Da Street → Ha Thanh 1 Bridge → National Highway 19 → Provincial Road 638 → Tran Phu Street → Can Vuong Street → Provincial Road 636B → Provincial Road 639B.
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2. What is Duong Long Cham Temple famous for?
2.1. Time-honored history
Built during the cultural peak of Champa civilization in the 12th-13th centuries, Duong Long Towers bear strong Khmer influence. Today, they remain one of the best-preserved Cham monuments in Central Vietnam and also hold the record as the tallest brick towers in the country.
Despite over 800 years of weathering and war damage, the towers have undergone multiple archaeological excavations and major restorations in 2006, 2007, and 2008. Their distinctive architectural details remain largely intact. Recognized as an Architectural Art Monument in 1980, the site was further elevated to the status of a Special National Relic on December 23, 2015.
2.2. Impressive ancient architecture
Covering an area of about 370 square meters, Duong Long Cham Temple consists of three main towers - the Central, Southern, and Northern towers - built of brick with sandstone corners carved in detail. Set on a hill in the Khmer-style “temple-mountain” layout, the towers align north–south, with east-facing entrances symbolizing the gods’ abode.
Among Cham towers in Vietnam, Duong Long stands out for its extensive use of stone decorations. Intricate carvings appear on bases, eaves, doorways, and summits, featuring motifs such as Gajashimha, lotus petals, dancing deities, goddess Uroja’s fertility symbols, floral garlands, elephants, monkeys, and multi-headed naga serpents.
2.2.1. Central Tower
The Central Tower is the dominant structure of the complex, rising to 39 meters, making it the tallest brick tower in Southeast Asia. Despite the passage of time, it has retained a solid square foundation, with each side measuring 16.5 meters.
The exterior walls are divided into seven pilasters per side, all unadorned with carvings. At the base, sandstone bands remain, bearing traces of decorative motifs, especially visible on the southern face. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the tower’s roof is arranged in four ascending tiers, enhancing its grandeur.
2.2.2. Northern Tower
The Northern Tower of Duong Long Cham Temple complex, standing 32 meters tall, shares many structural and stylistic features with the Southern Tower. It rests on a square base with sides measuring 14 meters, with plain walls.
However, traces of decorative patterns remain, depicting lions, seated figures, and dancers. This tower is devoted to Brahma, the Hindu creator god, and its roof structure also consists of four square tiers, in line with the architectural harmony of the complex.
2.2.3. Southern Tower
Among the three towers, the Southern Tower is the best preserved, reaching a height of 33 meters. Its walls are built in stepped recesses, while the roof is divided into four levels.
Decorative elements include a sandstone doorway and a striking band of Gajashimha along the roofline. Above the roof, arches and other stone embellishments remain intact. This tower is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu preserver god.
2.2.4. Other works
Within the temple grounds, archaeological excavations have uncovered two additional brick structures to the west of the towers. The first has a square layout and was built on a laterite foundation with surrounding walls ten layers of bricks high. Scholars suggest it may have served as an altar, as its form closely resembles a yoni, with the spout oriented toward the corridor between the Southern and Central Towers.
The second structure, measuring 11.2 meters east-west and 9.72 meters north-south, lies parallel to the first. This open-air, square-shaped construction also rests on a laterite foundation and is believed to predate the three main towers.
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3. Things to do on your visit to Duong Long Cham Temple
A visit to Duong Long Towers offers travelers the chance to admire impressive Cham-Khmer architecture and exquisite decorative art. Scattered throughout the complex are thousands of bas-reliefs and intricately carved stone blocks, each carrying historical and cultural value. Highlights include depictions of Brahma, Kala, the god Indra, naga serpents, the sea monster Makara, and the mythical bird Garuda, providing fascinating insights into Cham beliefs and spiritual life.
Beyond the artistry, the towers also create a perfect backdrop for photography. The moss-covered red-brick structures stand in striking contrast to the clear blue sky and the soft green of the surrounding trees. The harmony between the serene natural setting and the ancient grandeur of Duong Long evokes a sense of peace, as if stepping into another world.
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4. Guide for visitors to Duong Long Cham Temple
4.1. Opening hours & entrance fee
As of September 2025, details about ticket price and opening hours of Duong Long Cham Towers are:
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM | 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
- Entrance fee: 15,000 VND per person | Children under 1.2 meters: free
*Note: The information in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.
4.2. Important notes
To ensure a meaningful visit, please keep in mind:
- Do not bring explosives, flammable items, weapons, or pollutants.
- Avoid superstitious practices on site.
- Do not dig, vandalize, litter, or damage the landscape.
- Do not cut trees, remove soil, or take objects from the site.
- For guidance, contact the site management board.
FAQs about Duong Long Cham Temple
What is Duong Long Cham Temple?
Duong Long is a cluster of three Cham towers dating back to the 12th-13th centuries, originally built to honor the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
What is the cultural significance of Duong Long Cham Temple?
The complex embodies the Cham community’s devotion to Hinduism and symbolizes the Trimurti concept of creation, preservation, and destruction.
What is the best time to visit Duong Long Cham Temple?
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the air is cooler and natural light enhances the beauty of the towers.
What should I wear when visiting Duong Long Cham Temple?
As it is a sacred and historic site, dress modestly. Comfortable footwear is also useful for walking and climbing.
How long should I spend at Duong Long Cham Temple?
Allow approximately 1–2 hours to explore the site, absorb its history, and capture memorable photos.
A visit to Duong Long Cham Temple is a journey into history and culture, where ancient artistry meets timeless spirituality. Its majestic towers, detailed carvings, and serene surroundings make it a must-see for travelers interested in Vietnam’s Cham heritage. Duong Long Cham Towers are not only a historical landmark but also a place to reflect and admire ancient craftsmanship.
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