Duong Long Cham Towers

Tháp Dương Long

Three Cham towers built in the late 12th century, about 50 km (30 mi) outside Quy Nhơn. These impressive towers are the tallest Cham structures still remaining in Vietnam: the centre tower is 24 m (78 ft) high, while the two outside towers each measure 22 m (72 ft). The bodies of the towers are made from bricks, while the bases are built from massive carved boulders. Patterns carved into the bases show a glimpse of ancient Cham culture: flowers, gods, elephants, large human breasts, dragons. The towers were in the middle of a civic area, which now can only be seen in the ruins and artefacts strewn about on the surrounding grounds. The site feels abandoned and wild. Money for preservation and restoration was cut in the late 2000s, and except for the occasional presence of a caretaker, the site is utterly empty and you'll probably be alone as you explore the area. There is no information at the site.

• history

Getting there

50 km northwest from Quy Nhơn. Bus T6 will bring you closest, or take any larger highway bus. The towers can be combined with a day trip to the Quang Trung museum 10 km to the west.

Hours

Daily 07:00–11:00 and 13:30–17:00

Price

Entry ticket — when the caretaker is present and awake — costs 3,000 dong