Air Vietnam introduces Cham tower complex

The Po Klong Garai Cham tower complex in Phan Rang, Ninh Thuan is the most beautiful and best-preserved Cham tower complex in Vietnam, as the introduction of Vietnamese Airlines. Just 7km from Phan Rang town, the Po Klong Garai towers loom on a dry hillside. Built in the 13rd century in honor of King Po Klong Garai, the towers play an important role in Cham culture.

King Po Klong Garai is remembered for his contributions to agricultural development and irrigation. According to the legend, the king was an orphaned cowherd who won the support of the Dragon God and became a talented and highly moral king who helped to develop and protect the Cham kingdom.

Located on a hill over 100m high, the compound initially consisted of one main tower and five surrounding ones. Today, only three towers remain, the largest standing 20.5m high, the Fire Tower 9.13m high and the Gate Tower 5.65m high. As Vietnam Air information, Po Klong Garai features distinctive Cham architecture and remain central to the religion of local Cham people. Cham people still attend festivals at this compound to pray for good luck.

Arched gates, pointy towers and decorative bas-reliefs made of Cham bricks have withstood the ravages of time. A nearly solid block of bricks, the towers interior spaces are just large enough for primary rituals. In front of the entrance gate of the main tower rests a Siva statue. Smaller towers rise in great symmetrical pairs to narrow towards the top, creating an ascending shape that is both solemn and impressive. All facets of the tower are decorated with patterns and sculptures inspired of ancient Cham and Vietnamese culture.

The standing towers remain firm and the bricks tightly stacked. The type of mortar that the Chams used, or whether they even used mortar, remains a topic of debate. What is certain is that the sophisticated techniques of the ancient Cham builders have allowed these towers to remain as silent symbols of Cham culture.

You can take Vietnam airlines flights and the local buses to explore the beauty of Cham tower complex.

For more information, please visit Vietnamairline news.