Discover Cu Lao Cham islands – The green pearl in the heart of the East Sea
Cu Lao Cham island, a beautiful island in the middle of the East Sea, stands out with its wild beauty and diverse ecosystem. This place not only attracts tourists by its magnificent natural scenery but also by the simple life of the local people. So what is special about this island? The following article will take you to discover the “unique” beautiful scenes that can only be seen in Cu Lao Cham islands.
General introduction to Cham islands
Cham island is an island cluster consisting of 1 main island and 8 small islands located in Tan Hiep commune, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province. The Cham islands are located about 15km east of Cua Dai beach. In 2009, this place was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.
Cu Lao Cham islands have many different names such as Puliciam, Chiem Bat Lao, Tien Bich La. However, the name Cu Lao Cham is the most well-known and familiar to Vietnamese people. According to researchers, the name “Cu Lao Cham” originates from the South Indian word “Pulau Champa”, meaning “Cham island”.
Cu Lao Cham has a long history and is closely linked to the development of Quang Nam land. Through archaeological studies, researchers have confirmed that since the 7th century, Cu Lao Cham has become a bustling trading center of Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Cu Lao Cham is not only a beautiful island with wonderful natural scenery but also a place with strong historical and cultural significance.
Read more: Must-try Cham island activities for your next adventure
What is there in Cu Lao Cham islands?
Cu Lao Cham is a beautiful island, known as the βpearl of Quang Namβ. This place is famous for its natural landscapes and unique cultural heritage. Below are some outstanding places that you cannot miss when coming to Cu Lao Cham:
Cham Well
Cham Well is one of the destinations not to be missed when traveling to Cu Lao Cham. Cham Well is 200 years old, built during the Champa period. Cham Well is not only a valuable source of freshwater for local people but also a cultural heritage with a strong historical imprint.Β
Every year, during festivals, people often hold rituals to pray for peace at the well, to show respect and help the younger generation better understand the origin of the island. In addition, according to the people, the water in Cham Well also has the effect of curing seasickness and some people also believe that the water in the well also has the effect of praying for love for those who wish to find their other half.
Temple of the founder of the bird’s nest profession
The Yen Temple is a small temple built in 1848, located on Lao Island – one of the 8 small islands of Cham islands. Cu Lao Cham islands are the only place where natural swiftlets can be raised and the quality of the swiftlets here is always highly appreciated. Therefore, the Yen Temple is the place for local people to show their respect for the bird’s nest farming profession, as well as to express their wishes for the bird’s nest industry to always develop and for the people to always be peaceful and happy. Visiting the Yen Temple is not only an opportunity to learn about a unique traditional profession but also an opportunity to help you feel the respect of the people for nature.
Hai Tang Pagoda
Hai Tang Pagoda is one of the most ancient and sacred pagodas on Cu Lao Cham Island. The pagoda is located in a prime location, leaning against the western mountain range of Hon Lao, facing the East Sea. The architecture of the pagoda bears the typical features of ancient Vietnamese pagodas with sophisticated patterns and majestic Buddha statues. This is a famous pagoda with 4 no’s: no abbot, no votive paper, no electric lights, no monks. Therefore, when coming to Hai Tang Pagoda, visitors will be immersed in a peaceful and pure space.
Eo Gio Cu Lao Cham islands
Eo Gio is one of the most popular destinations in Cu Lao Cham islands. This place possesses a wild, majestic beauty with steep cliffs and crashing waves. Standing on the high cliffs, you can look far away, admiring the vast, majestic scenery of the East Sea. This is known as one of the most beautiful places to watch sunrise and sunset in Vietnam that you cannot miss.
The road of royal poinciana flowers
The parasol flower road is one of the highlights of Cu Lao Cham. Around July – August, the beaches along Lang beach, Xep beach, and Huong beach are covered in a brilliant red color of parasol flowers, creating an extremely romantic and poetic scene. Walking on the parasol flower road, visitors will feel the peaceful and quiet beauty of Cu Lao Cham island. This is also an ideal place to take beautiful photos as souvenirs.
Activities and experiences to try in Cu Lao Cham
Cu Lao Cham not only possesses beautiful landscapes but is also a paradise for those who love to explore and experience. Below are some interesting activities that you can participate in when coming to this beautiful island:
Scuba diving
One of the experiences that cannot be missed when coming to Cu Lao Cham is scuba diving to see coral. With a diverse and rich marine ecosystem, Cu Lao Cham islands own beautiful coral reefs with a variety of colors. When diving into the ocean, you will admire the strange coral reefs, schools of colorful fish. This is definitely a memorable and unforgettable experience on your trip.
Camping on the beach
Camping on the beach is an exciting activity for those who love freedom and want to enjoy the fresh air of the sea. You can choose a quiet beach like Bai Xep, Hon Lao, Hon Dai…, set up a tent and organize an outdoor BBQ party with your friends. In the evening, you can sit by the fire, watch the starry sky and listen to the sound of the waves.
Fishing with fishermen on the island
Fishing with fishermen is an interesting activity that helps you understand more about the daily life of coastal people. You will join local fishermen to go out to sea, cast nets and feel the joy of catching fresh fish. After fishing, you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes with the fishermen right on the boat.
Explore the primeval forest
Cu Lao Cham islands not only have the sea but also own primeval forests with diverse ecosystems. You can join trekking tours to explore the trails through the forest, visit Da stream, Tinh stream. This is a great opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the fresh air.
Enjoy the specialties
Cu Lao Cham cuisine is extremely rich and attractive with a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Some dishes you should try when coming here are stone crab, abalone, snail, dried squid… In addition, you can enjoy wild vegetables here such as fern, water fern, plantain, yard vegetable… All are fresh and processed in simple ways such as boiling, steaming, stir-frying to bring the most attractive flavors to visitors.
Where to stay in Cu Lao Cham?
If you are wondering where to stay when visiting Cu Lao Cham? Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is a great choice for you. Located about 30km from Cu Lao Cham, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy a relaxing vacation and explore the beauty of Quang Nam. With a prime location right next to Binh Minh beach, the resort offers visitors a peaceful vacation space, immersed in nature.Β
Here are some reasons why you should choose Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness as a place to stay for yourself and your family:
- Located right next to Binh Minh beach, the resort offers you a peaceful vacation space, blending with nature. From here, you can easily travel to Hoi An ancient town and Cu Lao Cham.
- With a unique architecture that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness offers 7 different room types, helping visitors comfortably choose the room that suits them.
- A team of professional, dedicated staff is always ready to serve, advise, and support customers 24/7, anytime, anywhere.
- The resort provides full facilities such as swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant… to help visitors have the best experience.
- The resort’s restaurant serves Asian and European dishes, especially fresh seafood. Visitors will enjoy delicious dishes with a beautiful sea view.
Read more: Cham islands snorkeling β Explore the beauty under the ocean
Some things to remember when traveling to Cu Lao Cham islands
Cu Lao Cham is an attractive destination with many interesting things. To have a complete and fun trip, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Ideal time: The best time to travel to Cu Lao Cham is from March to August. During this time, the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, very favorable for swimming, diving to see coral and exploring the island. You should avoid traveling during the rainy season (September to December) because of the big waves and the risk of storms.
- Choosing means of transportation: To get to Cu Lao Cham, you can travel by canoe or wooden boat from Cua Dai port (Hoi An). Boat ticket prices will range from 100,000 – 350,000 VND/person depending on the type of boat.
- Prepare luggage: When traveling to Cu Lao Cham, you should prepare light luggage, prioritize cool, sweat-absorbent clothes. In addition, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimsuits, and necessary personal items.
- Pay attention to environmental protection: When coming to Cu Lao Cham, environmental protection is an important thing that needs special attention. You should bring your own bag to put waste and do not litter.
- Ensure your safety: When participating in activities such as diving to see coral, fishing… you should wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of local people or tour guides to ensure your safety.
Cu Lao Cham is not only an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in majestic nature. Take the time to visit, experience and feel the beauty of this pristine island. In addition, if you need to book a room at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, please contact us via hotline 0912.060.558 for advice and support today!
