Ponagar Tower has long been a popular travel destination in Nha Trang City. In recent years, the site has more vibrant, with cultural performances by the Chăm people. This is an effort to attract more tourists while upholding Chăm culture in the province.
Traditional Chăm dances accompanied by the Ginang drum and Saranai flute are must-see performances for tourists at Ponagar Tower in Nha Trang City.
"This place is full of culture and history. The traditional dance is amazing. It’s great to be here." - Nguyen Khang, Tourist.
In 2009, the Khánh Hòa Provincial Monuments Conservation Centre established a cultural space next to Ponagar Tower. Most special features of Chăm culture are introduced to tourists here. These include traditional musical instruments and the craft of weaving brocade.
"I come here to perform Chăm music. Travellers are really interested in it." - Van Ngoc Chi, Resident, Ninh Phuoc District, Ninh Thuan Province.
Construction of the monument was carried out from the 8th to 13th century. Tourists here can enjoy typical Chăm architecture, and take a glimpse into Chăm daily life through cultural performances at Ponagar Tower.
"This is not just any tourist destination; Ponagar Tower is full of spiritual values. We’re trying our best to uphold these values while further developing tourism." - Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang, Deputy Head, Management Board, Khanh Hoa Provincial Monuments Conservation Center.
Each year, the monument welcomes some 600,000 visitors. This cultural space contributes not only to tourism development, but also to the preservation of Chăm culture.
