The Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago in Vietnam’s northern province of Quang Ninh and adjoining Hai Phong city have been recognized as global natural heritage sites by UNESCO. At the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the UN’s cultural organization announced the new inscription to the list.
According to reports, the Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago is Vietnam’s first inter-provincial UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cat Ba Archipelago, located in the port city of Hai Phong, is Vietnam’s largest limestone archipelago, with over 360 islands.
UNESCO had previously designated the archipelago as a global biosphere reserve.
However, this is not the first time that Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh Province has been named after a heritage. The site was given the same name in 1994 and again in 2000.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba archipelago is known for its wide diversity of islands and oceans, as well as the presence of a variety of uncommon species and flora. With an area of about 17000 hectares, it is home to the country’s largest coastal forest.
Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam‘s most popular tourist destinations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its emerald green waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts and islets rising spectacularly from the sea. These karsts are frequently clothed in rich flora, which contrasts sharply with the glittering waters. Ha Long Bay provides several chances for cruising, kayaking, and cave exploration, making it a popular location for travelers looking for a peaceful and attractive natural setting.
Cat Ba Island is the largest of the Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba archipelago islands and acts as a gateway to the surrounding area. The island has rocky terrain, sandy beaches, and a combination of forested hills and valleys. Cat Ba Town is the island’s primary urban hub and serves as a base for visitors exploring the bay. Cat Ba is famous for the Cat Ba Langur, a highly endangered monkey species found exclusively on this island.