Cham Sculpture Museum

Overview of Cham Museum

The Cham Sculpture Museum is an essential destination for anyone interested in discovering the Cham culture and history of Vietnam. It is located in the city of Da Nang and boasts the world’s largest collection of Cham sculptures, which date back to the 7th to 15th centuries and are made from sandstone, terracotta, and bronze. The museum houses over 300 artifacts that were collected from various archaeological sites in Central Vietnam.

The Cham civilization was once a dominating kingdom in Central and Southern Vietnam, and their culture has had a profound influence on the region. The Cham people excelled in art, sculpture, literature, and architecture, and the museum offers a glimpse into their rich history and traditions. The collection includes various sculptures of gods, goddesses, animals, and humans that were once used in religious rituals and ceremonies.

History

The museum was established in 1915 by the French colonial government to preserve the Cham artifacts that were being looted and sold on the black market. Today, the Vietnamese government manages the museum, which has become a popular tourist attraction. The museum has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years and now has modern facilities with interactive exhibits that educate you about the Cham people and their culture.

You can explore the various galleries that showcase the Cham sculptures and artifacts. The galleries are divided into different periods in Cham history, and each gallery has a detailed description of the artifacts on display. The museum also has an outdoor area where you can see larger sculptures and enjoy a view of the nearby Han River.

Guided Tours and Cultural Events

For those interested in learning more about the Cham culture, the museum offers guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages. The guided tours provide detailed information about the Cham civilization and their cultural practices, while the audio guides offer a more flexible and self-paced experience. The museum also hosts cultural events and performances throughout the year, which include traditional music, dance, and martial arts.

If you’re planning a trip to Da Nang, make sure to visit the Cham Sculpture Museum. The museum is open daily from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is affordable. You can easily access the museum by public transportation or taxi, and it is approximately a 10-minute drive from the city center and a 20-minute drive from Da Nang International Airport.

Travel Guide

Getting there

The Cham Sculpture Museum is located in the heart of Da Nang city, making it easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. The museum is located at 02, 2 Tháng 9, Bình Hiên, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng. It is approximately a 10-minute drive from the city center and a 20-minute drive from Da Nang International Airport. You can take a public bus or a taxi to reach the museum. There are also several tour companies that offer guided tours to the museum as part of their itinerary.

Admission fees

The admission fee for the Cham Sculpture Museum is 60,000 VND for adults and 40,000 VND for children. Guided tours and audio guides are available for an additional fee. The guided tours cost around 150,000 VND per person, and the audio guides are available for 50,000 VND. The museum also offers discounted rates for groups of 10 or more people.

Hours of operation

The museum is open daily from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. The last admission is at 4:30 pm, and you are advised to arrive at the museum before 4:00 pm to have enough time to explore the galleries.

What to bring

You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. The museum has several floors, and you need to climb stairs to reach the galleries. It is also recommended to bring sunscreen and a hat as the outdoor area can get quite hot during the day. You should also bring a camera to capture the beautiful sculptures and artifacts.

Nearby attractions

The Cham Sculpture Museum is located near several other popular tourist attractions in Da Nang, including the Marble Mountains, Han River, and Dragon Bridge. You can easily spend a full day exploring the area. The Marble Mountains are a series of five hills made of limestone and marble, which offer a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The Han River is a scenic river that flows through the city and offers a variety of activities such as boat rides and water sports. The Dragon Bridge is a unique attraction that features a dragon-shaped bridge, which spits fire and water every Saturday and Sunday night. You can also explore the nearby markets and restaurants to experience the local cuisine and culture.

In conclusion, the Cham Sculpture Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. The museum offers a unique and fascinating insight into the Cham civilization, which has left a significant impact on Vietnamese culture. You can spend hours exploring the galleries and learning about the Cham people and their traditions. The museum’s location in Da Nang also makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area and experiencing the local culture.