Whether you visit Ponagar Tower right by the Cai River (Nha Trang) or the ancient Po Klong Garai tower complex atop Trau Hill (Phan Rang), you are stepping into sacred spaces dating back thousands of years. These are not dead archaeological ruins, but "living temples" – places where the Cham people and local residents still perform daily worship and prayer rituals. Therefore, the mindfulness and civility of a traveler are clearly reflected in the way you conduct yourself when visiting these destinations.
Dress code and conduct guidelines in sacred spaces
The first and strictest requirement at Cham tower complexes is attire. Please dress modestly, covering your shoulders and extending past your knees. Tank tops, short shorts, or revealing slit skirts are strictly forbidden when stepping onto the main tower courtyard. At Ponagar Tower, the management board provides a complimentary robe-lending service at the entrance; make sure to use it if your clothes happen to be unsuitable, rather than attempting to slip past the checkpoint.
When moving around the towers, walk softly, speak quietly, and maintain proper decorum. Cham tower architecture features very low arched doorways, and the inner sanctuary space is relatively compact and deeply sacred. When entering inside to pay homage, remove your hats and sunglasses, and never touch the altars, statues of deities, or ancient bas-reliefs on the brick walls. Cham bricks are bonded using a unique natural material; repeated touching by millions of visitors accelerates the erosion and deterioration of this priceless heritage.
Respecting local people and practicing mindful photography
At these tower complexes, you will frequently encounter Champa dignitaries (such as Kanhi violin masters) or elder women and mothers offering ceremonial gifts and burning incense. Maintain a respectful distance, and avoid standing directly in front of those performing rituals to take wide-angle photos. If you wish to take portraits of them or children wearing traditional attire, approach gently, smile, and ask for permission politely: "Excuse me, may I take a keepsake photo of you, please?". Such respect is always met with warm and friendly smiles.
Quick checklist:
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Choose modest clothing covering shoulders and knees when planning a visit to the ancient tower complexes.
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Remove hats and sunglasses, and maintain absolute silence when entering the inner sanctuary of the towers.
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Strictly avoid touching or rubbing artifacts, stelae, or the ancient baked-brick walls.
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Maintain a minimum distance of 2 meters, never obstructing the pathways or space of locals conducting rituals.
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Always ask for and obtain permission before pointing camera lenses toward local people or ceremonial acts.
