P
Po Klong Garai Cham Towers
These imposing Cham towers date from the end of the 13th century. Built from brick as Hindu temples, they stand on a platform at the top of Cho’k Hala, an…
Getty Images/AWL Images RM
Phan Rang & Thap Cham
This really is a tale of two cities: Phan Rang hugging the shoulders of Hwy 1 and Thap Cham straddling Hwy 20 as it starts its long climb to Dalat. Anyone travelling Vietnam from north to south will notice a big change in the vegetation when approaching the joint capitals of Ninh Thuan province. The familiar lush green rice paddies are replaced with sandy soil supporting only scrubby plants. Local flora includes poinciana trees and prickly-pear cacti with vicious needles.
With two major highways (1A and 20) intersecting in the town, this area makes a possible pit stop on the coastal run. As the twin towns of Phan Rang and Thap Cham are both industrial and not particularly attractive, consider basing yourself at nearby Ninh Chu Beach, 6km to the east.
Explore Phan Rang & Thap Cham
- PPo Klong Garai Cham Towers
These imposing Cham towers date from the end of the 13th century. Built from brick as Hindu temples, they stand on a platform at the top of Cho’k Hala, an…
- PPo Ro Me Cham Tower
Po Ro Me is one of the most atmospheric of Vietnam’s Cham towers, thanks in part to its isolated setting on top of a craggy hill with sweeping views over…
- CCham Cultural Centre
This large modern structure is dedicated to Cham culture. There's some superb photography of Cham people, village life and customs exhibited here, as well…
- BBau Truc Village
This Cham village is known for its pottery and you’ll see several family shops in front of the mud and bamboo houses. It's around 4km northwest of Phan…
- QQuang Cong Pagoda
The 135-year old Quang Cong Pagoda is a colourful Chinese temple in the town centre.
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Phan Rang & Thap Cham.
See
Po Klong Garai Cham Towers
These imposing Cham towers date from the end of the 13th century. Built from brick as Hindu temples, they stand on a platform at the top of Cho’k Hala, an…
See
Po Ro Me Cham Tower
Po Ro Me is one of the most atmospheric of Vietnam’s Cham towers, thanks in part to its isolated setting on top of a craggy hill with sweeping views over…
See
Cham Cultural Centre
This large modern structure is dedicated to Cham culture. There's some superb photography of Cham people, village life and customs exhibited here, as well…
See
Bau Truc Village
This Cham village is known for its pottery and you’ll see several family shops in front of the mud and bamboo houses. It's around 4km northwest of Phan…
See
Quang Cong Pagoda
The 135-year old Quang Cong Pagoda is a colourful Chinese temple in the town centre.
Guidebooks
Learn more about Phan Rang & Thap Cham
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