Ninh Thuan, a sun-drenched region in Central Vietnam, is renowned not only for its unspoiled beaches and expansive sand dunes but also for the unique Cham Pa culture it faithfully preserves. Visitors to Ninh Thuan can explore ancient architectural marvels, experience graceful dances, and immerse themselves in the rich, colorful cultural ambiance of a people with a deep historical legacy.
Cham Pa culture, blending local beliefs with Indian influences, has produced unique artistic values, seen in temple architecture, stone sculptures, music, dances, and traditional crafts. Ninh Thuan holds many treasures of Cham Pa heritage, inviting visitors to discover and explore.
Cham Pa Architecture: A Golden Legacy in Ninh Thuan
The majestic Cham towers in Ninh Thuan stand as powerful testament to a glorious historical period. These towers are not only religious edifices but also symbolize the artistic and architectural prowess of the ancient Cham people.
Cham architecture in Ninh Thuan reflects Hindu influences through decorative motifs and overall temple structure.
Po Klong Garai Tower, located on Trau Hill approximately 7km northeast of Phan Rang – Thap Cham, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Cham tower clusters in Vietnam. Built in the late 13th century and dedicated to King Po Klong Garai, who greatly contributed to the Cham Pa kingdom’s development, its architecture harmoniously combines sculpture and structure, making it a must-visit site in Ninh Thuan. Visitors can marvel at its unique design while learning about Cham history and culture.
Po Klong Garai Tower, a symbol of Cham Pa architecture in Ninh Thuan, attracting visitors with its ancient beauty and profound historical value.
Hoa Lai Tower, also known as Po Dam, is one of the oldest Cham tower clusters still existing today. Located about 30km from Phan Rang – Thap Cham city, Hoa Lai Tower impresses with its unique architecture deeply influenced by early Cham Pa art. Visitors can admire the exquisite sculptures and unique decorative patterns, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the ancient Cham.
Katê Festival: Immerse in Cham Pa Cultural Splendor
The Katê Festival is one of the largest and most important celebrations for the Cham people following the Brahmin faith. Usually held in September or October annually, the festival honors ancestors, with prayers for abundant harvests, peaceful lives, and happiness.
During the Katê Festival, visitors are drawn into the lively atmosphere of traditional ceremonies and vibrant cultural activities. From ceremonial offerings to the bathing of the Linga – Yoni statues, to traditional dances like Apsara and Cham dances, all embody the distinct essence of Cham Pa culture.
Additionally, visitors can sample Cham culinary specialties like goat curry rice, ginger cakes, and tét cake wrapped in green leaves, and participate in folk games like tug-of-war, stick-pushing, and blindfolded goat catching.
Cham Pa Music and Dance: The Essence of Folklore Art
Music and dance are integral to the Cham people’s cultural life. Cham Pa music, with its mystical, melodious nuances, expresses human emotions and feelings. Traditional instruments like the Ginang drum, Saranai horn, and Kanhi zither are utilized in religious ceremonies, festivals, and community gatherings.
Cham dances are elegant and graceful, harmonizing music with movements, showcasing the distinctive cultural beauty of the Cham people.
Cham Pa dances are diverse and varied, from solemn ceremonial dances to lively folk dances. Apsara dance is among the most famous Cham dances, symbolic of beauty and purity. Apsara dancers in ornate costumes, with soft, flowing movements, recreate images of celestial maidens from the heavens.
Traditional Crafts: Celebrating Cham Pa Cultural Beauty
Ninh Thuan is also known for its traditional craft villages such as Bau Truc pottery and My Nghiep weaving.
Bau Truc Pottery is considered one of the oldest pottery villages in Southeast Asia, known for its unique hand-making techniques without using a spinning wheel. Bau Truc pottery products bear a rustic, simple charm, close to nature, reflecting the skillful craftsmanship of Cham artisans.
My Nghiep Weaving is renowned for its unique brocade products, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors. These My Nghiep brocade fabrics are not just decorative items but also artistic works, reflecting the cultural identity of the Cham people.
Bau Truc pottery and My Nghiep weaving are unique traditional crafts of the Cham people in Ninh Thuan, enriching local cultural identity.
Preserving and Promoting Cham Pa Cultural Values in Ninh Thuan
With deep awareness of the importance of preserving and promoting Cham Pa cultural values, Ninh Thuan province has launched various initiatives and projects to safeguard historical relics, revive traditional festivals, support craft villages, and promote Cham Pa culture to domestic and international visitors.
Sites like Po Klong Garai and Hoa Lai Towers are restored and maintained, becoming attractive tourist destinations. The Katê Festival is organized on a grand scale, attracting many visitors. Craft villages like Bau Truc pottery and My Nghiep weaving receive development support, generating employment for local residents.
Conclusion
The Cham culture in Ninh Thuan is a priceless heritage that deserves respect, preservation, and promotion. Visiting Ninh Thuan, tourists can not only admire the wild, majestic natural beauty but also explore the unique, profound cultural values of a people with a rich historical tradition. Come to Ninh Thuan to experience and appreciate the cultural beauty of Cham Pa, to learn more about the history, the people, and the land here.