Vietnam is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered across the country. These sights give visitors a peek into the rich history and culture of the country.
Let’s take a look at 4 of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites you need to visit in Vietnam.
Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh is a recent addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Having gotten its recognition in 2014. This stunning natural landscape located along the majestic Red River with its limestone karst peaks, rice fields, and rivers makes for a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s cities.
Its similarity to Halong Bay has given it the nickname ‘Halong on Land’. Hidden among the limestone towers are ancient temples and pagodas as well as evidence of human activity dating back 30,000 years ago. The area is accessible only by boat ride tour which makes the experience even more worthwhile.
Located in the heart of Hanoi, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel is an iconic historical site dating back to the 11th century. It was constructed by the Ly Viet dynasty on top of the remains of a much older Chinese fortress to mark their independence.
The citadel remained the seat of power for several centuries until it fell into disrepair during the 19th and 20th centuries. During the Vietnam War, it was used by the Vietnam Communist Party who built bunkers and a war room underneath the citadel of which you can now access. There’s also a museum with relics dating back as far as the 6th century.
Read more: A Quick Guide to Hanoi
One of only two natural UNESCO heritage sites, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province is famous for its limestone karsts, enormous caves, underground rivers, and lush forests that are spread across an area of 104 km. Among its massive cave system lies one of the largest caves in the world, the Son Doong Cave.
The national park is also home to a variety of flora and fauna. There are over 100 mammal species that are found in the park including clouded leopards and elephants. Half of the park is open to the public with cave exploration tours, hiking, and ziplining being some of the most popular activities to do in the park.
The imperial city of Hue holds an important place in Vietnam's history. Built by the Nguyen Dynasty, it was once the capital of Vietnam. The city’s majestic past can be seen in its monuments which are spread across the banks of the Perfume River.
Within the vast complex, there are many monuments including the impressive Royal Citadel where the royals once lived, the famous Temple of Literature, the Temple of Roaring Elephant, and the Celestial of Lady Pagoda. On the opposite side of the river lies the royal tombs where members of the royal family, as well as nobles, were buried. One of the best activities to do here is to cycle around and explore the monuments.
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If you're planning to visit Vietnam to see the various UNESCO heritage sites you'll need to first get yourself a visa. BDATrip will help you save time and money. Our online Vietnam visa application is faster, simpler, and more secure.
