Cham culture is a distinctive and integral part of Vietnam's cultural heritage, a rich legacy of ancient temple towers, remarkable architectural and sculptural works, festivals, religious traditions, music, performing arts, handicrafts, and the Cham script. Many Cham heritage sites have become popular attractions – the Cham towers in Khanh Hoa, Lam Dong, Gia Lai, and Dak Lak provinces, the My Son Sanctuary, the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, Bau Truc pottery village, and My Nghiep weaving village.
At the Po Klong Garai towers, a prominent example of Cham architecture in Khanh Hoa, visitors can scan a QR code with their smartphone and detailed information about the site's history, architecture, artifacts, and cultural significance appears on their screen.
Tai Cong Thuy Diem, a tour guide at the Po Klong Garai heritage site, said, "By scanning a QR code, visitors can listen to audio commentary while walking through different areas of the temple. As the narration plays, they can view the actual locations along with illustrative images. Tour guides are also here to answer any questions visitors may have."
Tran Huu Ly, a visitor from Gia Lai province, said he was impressed by this new interactive experience.
"It's a very convenient way to learn about the towers, their history, the surrounding landscape, and nearby monuments. The QR codes provide much more detailed information. Even without a tour guide, I can still gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of these heritage sites," said Ly.
Nguyen Chi Thanh, a technical specialist involved in the project, said that in addition to digitizing images and historical information, Khanh Hoa has also incorporated virtual reality technology and multilingual support.
"Our platform supports four languages: Vietnamese, English, Russian, and Chinese. We plan to add another 7 to 12 languages in the near future. The platform also provides image-based information, and the virtual experience takes place in an immersive 3D environment," Thanh said.
According to Khanh Hoa authorities, the digital platform for Cham cultural heritage will help preserve historical records, build a database for research, promote the rich cultural heritage of the Cham people, and provide visitors with an immersive online experience.
"The initiative allows visitors to experience the heritage in virtual reality. People who are unable to travel here can still explore these remarkable heritage sites on our 3D digital platform," said Thai Thi Le Hang, Director of the Khanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
