5 Reasons Why Visiting Ponagar Cham Tower Must Be On Your Bucket List

Ponagar Cham Tower’s History

In the language spoken by the Cham people, the word “Ponagar” translates to “the mother of the country”. Other names of the Ponagar Cham Tower in Vietnam are Yang Po Inu Nagar Tower or Yang Po Ana Gar, as it was built to worship Queen Po Ina Nagar. 

According to the Cham civilization folklore, Queen Po Ina Nagar was the goddess of creation, who appeared from the clouds and the sea to bless them with good harvests and a peaceful life.

Ponagar Cham Tower Vietnam provides a glimpse into the historical and spiritual fabric of the Cham Civilization. For detailed travel information, check out the Ponagar Cham Tower Travel Guide.

You might wonder if there is anything worth doing in the Ponagar Cham Tower complex. Here is a detailed Ponagar Cham Tower travel guide to clear this doubt.

What are the 5 best things to do in Ponagar Cham Tower?

Admire the architecture:

The most fascinating thing about this structure is zero usage of mortar to hold the baked bricks together. It is a secret that went to the grave with the Cham builders. 

You will witness intricate carvings, astonishing elevations, and beautifully designed idols of lord Shiva, Nandi, and Garuda. 

The Ponagar Cham Tower Vietnam exhibits various decorative elements such as carvings and statues adding to the aesthetical appeal and religious eminence. 

Offer prayers at the main chamber:

The tower showcases impressive craftsmanship. Tourists can admire the intricate carvings and Cham people’s spiritual practices, here. It is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Next, you must visit the North West Tower, and take goddess Durga’s blessings. It may be a smaller chamber but is as important as the main chamber. 

Lastly, one must visit the meditation hall known as the Mandapa. It is a huge space, offering a conducive environment for relaxing and finding your inner self. 

Enjoy the traditional dance performances:

These traditional dance performances will give you deep insights into the rich traditions and arts of the Cham civilization. 

Moreover, this will be one of the best experiences you will ever have and also the most exciting thing you will do in Nha Trang. 

Lay back and relax in the gardens:

Now let’s get some tips for visiting the Ponagar Cham Tower

1. Dress code: It is best to wear comfortable and simple clothes that aren’t revealing and inappropriate. Wear covered clothes and footwear that would allow you to walk comfortably on uneven surfaces. Be respectful of the heritage site of Ponagar Cham Tower.
2. Check the entry fee: The regular entry fee to Ponagar Cham Tower is usually around VND 22,000 (approximately $1). Note, that you can explore the entire complex after paying this fee, make sure you don’t pay any additional amount for entrance. 
3. Stay hydrated: Carry a water bottle and energy-boosting drinks like lemonade or Electrol to stay hydrated, energetic, and enthusiastic as you explore Ponagar Cham Tower.
4. Sun protection: Carry sunglasses, hats, and umbrellas and wear sunscreen to stay protected from the harsh sun rays and to get uninterrupted views of the Ponagar Cham Tower.
5. Guided tours: You can also book guided tours for a deeper and more detailed understanding of the Ponagar Cham Tower. The average cost of these guided tours is between VND 100,000 to VND 200,000 (approximately $4 to $8). 
6. Plan your visit: Make sure that your visit to this temple coincides with the Cham Festival month, during the third lunar month. It is the best time to visit Ponagar Cham Tower, as you can experience the vibrance of the cultural festivities as well.
7. Entry time: The temple operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, please visit only during these hours.
8. No littering: Be responsible tourists and avoid littering the place or getting any outside food on the premises. 
9. Be respectful: Be careful about the kind of language and behavior you exhibit in the temple area. Respect the local customs and traditions.
10. Follow the rules: Follow all the rules and regulations laid down by the temple committee and the sign boards put out on the temple premises. 

Nha Trang Beaches:

Enjoy water adventure sports like snorkelling in Vietnam, swimming, scuba diving, and much more. 

Nha Trang Cathedral:

It was constructed in the early 1900s and provides a peaceful setting in contrast to the busy bustling tourist places in Vietnam like various shopping markets and streets. 

It is an excellent location for capturing photos and exploring the city’s colonial past.

Long Son Pagoda

This Buddhist temple is a magnificent shrine adorned with intricate carvings and provides stunning vistas of Nha Trang from its summit.

Ba Ho Waterfalls:

It is a famous hiking and trekking destination as well, therefore all you adventure lovers out there, do not miss this spot when you plan a visit to Ponagar Cham Tower.

VinWonders Nha Trang Amusement Park:

It offers exciting attractions, like adventurous rides,  a water park, an aquarium, and performances, making it a great spot for families and thrill seekers. 

Nha Trang Night Markets:

Nha Trang Night Markets are no exception. For tasting authentic Vietnamese culinary delights, haggling with the street-side vendors, watching the lively culture of Nha Trang, and shopping for some amazing souvenirs for your friends and family, the night markets are the best pick. 

Enjoy the local cuisine:

However, it is only great for non-vegetarians but there are many Indian restaurants as well that serve pure vegetarian food. 

If you’re wondering what to eat in Ponagar Champ Tower then worry not, there are plenty of good eateries and cafes nearby.