Natural Gifts bestowed upon Vietnam and Laos

Phong Nha-Ke Bang and Hin Nam No National Parks Become Transboundary UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park in central Vietnam and Hin Nam No National Park in Khammouane Province, Laos, have been jointly recognized as a transboundary UNESCO World Heritage site, marking a significant milestone in conservation and regional cooperation.

The unique limestone karst landscapes of these parks, dating back around 400 million years, make them the oldest large-scale karst system in Asia. The area boasts dramatic cliffs, deep sinkholes, rugged terrain, and a vast underground river and cave system exceeding 220 kilometers.

The extensive karst topography is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude dry karst forests to dense, moist lowland tropical forests. This biodiverse landscape supports many rare, endangered, and endemic species. Hin Nam No is noted for species such as the Sunda pangolin, red-shanked douc langur, and endangered bats inhabiting its karst caves. These forests and caves form critical habitats for unique flora and fauna.

Among the spectacular caves in Hin Nam No is the Xe Bang Fai River Cave, a subterranean river over 7 kilometers long featuring cathedral-like chambers and vibrant stalactite formations. In Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park, Paradise Cave, more than 31km long and 60-100m high, is one of the longest dry caves in Asia, adorned with a vast array of exquisite stalactites and stalagmites.

The recognition of these parks as a transboundary World Heritage site highlights international cooperation and shared heritage conservation between Vietnam and Laos. It strengthens regional ecological protection and diplomatic relations. The joint inscription is a pioneering role in cross-border conservation in Southeast Asia.

Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park is the only national park in Vietnam to be twice recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. This recognition opens up numerous prospects for sustainable tourism development. The Ca Roong border crossing could potentially be opened to tourists from Vietnam and Laos, and eventually all international tourists. Tourism to the major caves in Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng prioritises low volume/high value to minimise environmental impact.

Visitors can unwind under a skylight in the cave that allows sun rays to filter through, creating a breathtaking experience. The lighting system guiding visitors through the cave is all white light, showcasing the original color of the stalactites inside.

The IUCN, the statutory advisor to UNESCO on natural World Heritage sites globally, has strongly supported the nomination of Hin Nam No National Park. The IUCN's Green List initiative identifies and promotes protected and conserved areas effectively and equitably, and Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park has made continuous efforts to preserve nature and biodiversity in line with the Green List standards.

In July 2023, UNESCO recognised Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, accompanied by Hin Nam No Natural Park of Laos, as the first transboundary World Heritage site for the two countries. The IUCN will pay special attention to how PNKB and HNN parks will work together to ensure effective management across the 220,000-hectare landscape.

Both parks are popular tourist destinations. Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park is a top tourist attraction in the central province of Quảng Trị, Vietnam, while Hin Nam No National Park in Laos is also an attractive tourist destination. The parks' unique features and exceptional biodiversity make them must-visit destinations for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

[1] Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1254 [2] Hin Nam No National Protected Area. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5927 [3] Transboundary World Heritage Nomination Dossier. (2021). Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/nominations/00018747 [4] Gunn, J. (2012). The Karst of Southeast Asia. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?id=sU4vCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA125

The government of Vietnam and Laos collaborated to secure the joint recognition of Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park and Hin Nam No National Park as a transboundary UNESCO World Heritage site, demonstrating the importance of international cooperation in conservation and regional diplomacy.
The unique limestone karst landscapes of the transboundary World Heritage site, spanning approximately 220,000 hectares, provide a habitat for a plethora of rare, endangered, and endemic species, making them a vital cornerstone for environmental science and conservation efforts.
The recognition of this transboundary site opens up opportunities for sustainable job creation within the tourism, environmental-science, and cultural sectors, with the potential for Ca Roong border crossing to welcome tourists from both countries and beyond.
The IUCN, serving as the statutory advisor to UNESCO on natural World Heritage sites, has commended Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park for its commitment to preserving nature and biodiversity in accordance with the Green List standards, setting an example for conservation initiatives in Southeast Asia.
Within Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng National Park, Paradise Cave, one of the longest dry caves in Asia, boasts a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites and offers visitors an immersive educational experience, fostering an appreciation for the wonders of science and natural history.
As a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers, both the Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng and Hin Nam No National Parks showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Vietnam and Laos, providing a unique travel experience that transcends borders.
The joint management of the transboundary World Heritage site by both countries will be overseen by the IUCN, ensuring effective protection of the parks' unique ecosystems and promoting the sustainable use of its resources in line with the principles of environmental-science and responsible travel.
The recognition of Phong Nha-Ke Bang and Hin Nam No National Parks as a transboundary UNESCO World Heritage site will likely encourage investment in research, education, and sustainable development initiatives across the region, further enhancing collaboration and mutual understanding in the areas of lifestyle, sports, law, and space.