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Situated on a serene hilltop in Central Vietnam's Binh Dinh Province, Banh It Cham Temple, also known as Silver Tower/Thap Banh It, is an intriguing archaeological site that presents tourists with a glimpse of the fabled past of the Champa Kingdom. Its colossal spires, dainty brick carvings, and bird's eye view of the lush countryside make Banh It Cham Temple not only an architectural wonder but also a cultural treasure worth exploring. Let Asia King Travel guide you through this captivating piece of history, book your journey today and uncover the ancient charm of Binh Dinh like never before.
The beauty of Banh It Cham Temple (Source: ColorfulJourneys)
Banh It Cham Temple was built from the late 11th to the early 12th century under the Champa Kingdom, which was a strong Hindu influenced empire that existed in central and southern Vietnam for more than a thousand years. The complex comprises a group of four towers of different sizes and structures, demonstrating the architectural development as well as the religious life of the Cham people.
The tallest and most prominent structure, the Main Tower or "Thap Chinh," is a representation of Mount Meru, the holy mountain in Hindu mythology. Not just a religious center, the temple also served as a strategic lookout by way of its elevation. The site later fell into relative obscurity, overshadowed by more well known Cham sites like My Son Sanctuary.
History of Banh It Cham Temple (Source: ColorfulJourneys)
The best time to visit Banh It Cham Temple is between the dry season that typically lasts from January to August. The months are defined by pleasant weather, fair skies, and few showers, perfect for photo taking and sightseeing. March to May is particularly good for those that must flee the hot summer but still enjoy lush greens. Late afternoon or early morning visits are recommended to avoid the sun during midday and to see the lovely light which illuminates the red brick structures with a golden sheen.
If you’re a culture enthusiast, consider timing your visit with local festivals or Cham celebrations, which occasionally include traditional music and dance performances near historical sites. These events offer a rare glimpse into the living heritage of the Cham people and enrich the overall travel experience.
Best time to visit Banh It Cham Temple (Source: ColorfulJourneys)
The Banh It Cham temple complex includes four towers symbolizing the central towers, each offering a typical insight into the art and religious belief of the Cham civilization. The Main Tower (Kalan), over 20 meters tall, stands in the center and symbolizes Mount Meru, the mythological mountain of Hindu cosmology. Its iconic taper and intricate brickwork are typical of Cham architecture.
The Gate Tower (Mandapa) is believed to have served as a prayer room or entrance, and while partially ruined, the remaining arches and carved motifs point to the engineering sophistication of the time. The Fire Tower (Kosagrha), possibly ritually utilized as well, has a tall, slender profile and stands where it catches the morning light beautifully. Lastly, the Stele Tower, diminutive and worn, possibly held important inscriptions or offerings.
Exploring the Cham Towers (Source: ColorfulJourneys)
It is perhaps the most gratifying aspect of a trip to Banh that the view from the temple hill is so breathtaking. Perched atop a verdant, raised mound, the temple complex commands 360 degree vistas into rice fields, distant mountain ranges, and scattered villages below. On cloudless mornings, you can even see Quy Nhon City and the coast in the distance.
These wide vistas change seasonally, from the lush greens of rice season to harvest fields of gold and offer perfect photography moments. Sunrise and sunset tours are especially popular with visitors trying to capture the golden light washing across the towers, illuminating the reddish brown bricks in stunning contrast against the heavens.
Remarkable hill tops views (Source: Vietnamvn)
For content creators and photographers, Banh It Cham Temple is a photographer's paradise. The weathered surfaces, moss stained stones, dramatic light, and fine carvings provide a rich texture of visual interest. There are unlimited angles to shoot, ranging from broad scenes capturing the surrounding countryside to close ups of floral motifs, mythical beings, and figurative patterns carved into the stone.
The location is usually free of crowds and thus provides room for unperturbed shots and serene compositions. Whether professional photographer or a tourist with a smartphone, the location is full of material that can be used to make memorable shots.
Paradise of photography (Source: lamorboutiquehotel)
Unlike many tourist-filled locations, Banh It Cham Temple is very serene. This serenity makes it a great spot for contemplation, meditation, and spiritual questioning. The natural scenery, with the religious energy of the temple thrown in, creates a harmonious atmosphere ideal for unwinding and getting back to yourself.
Guests prefer to stop to sit in the towers' shadow, the rustling leaves and birds' cries, or gently walking on the ancient paths in hushed respect. If you practice yoga, tai chi, or profound breathing meditation, this location has a perfect outdoor place with beauty and spiritual ambiance.
Meditation at the Banh It Cham Temple (Source: trailsofindochina)
To better understand the importance of Banh It, one needs to know its history and culture. Minimal information on the towers at the site is available through interpretive signs, but greater background on Cham history would be very recommended through hiring a local guide. Guides can describe the symbolism of the temple in architecture, past rituals performed there, and myths regarding Cham kings and artists who shaped the region's heritage.
For a better learning experience, cap your tour with a trip to the Binh Dinh Museum in Quy Nhon. The museum is home to a valuable collection of Cham artifacts: sandstone carvings of all types, religious statues, and ancient inscriptions. Having viewed these artifacts following your tour of the temple, the tale is complete and your interest in this quite fascinating culture is further increased.
Learning about the history of Banh It Cham Temple (Source: OhanaVillage)
Banh It Cham Temple is a secret Vietnam gem, a destination where time stands still and history lives on in old brick towers and stunning views. Contrary to popular tourist destinations, Banh It provides a real and peaceful environment, ideal for tourists who seek to discover the lesser-visited pages of Vietnam's history. For the best experience, book your trip with Asia King Travel now.
Read more: Quy Nhon Tour 4 Days: Hidden Beaches & Cham Heritage
