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Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China and Cambodia and is widely popular for its historical, cultural and natural attractions. These UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase some of the world’s most stunning natural and cultural wonders, like Ha Long Bay, which is popularly known for its emerald waters. Vietnam holds a strong position in biodiversity and its broad ecosystem. In this blog, we are going to explore 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Vietnam, which are often included in curated Vietnam tour packages for travellers.
1. Ha Long Bay
This site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1994 for its exceptional scenic beauty and geological importance. Ha Long Bay consists of thousands of limestone islands and is counted as one of the most popular tourist spots in Vietnam. If you are thinking of visiting this site, then do not forget to explore the most spectacular caves of Ha Long Bay, fish in the villages and witness radiant and peaceful sunsets.
You can also explore the site by kayaking across the emerald waters for a more immersive experience. The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is autumn (October-December) and Spring (March-April).
Location: Quang Ninh Province (North Vietnam)
2. Hoi An Ancient Town
This town is also known as a living museum, as it has gloriously preserved Vietnamese and Chinese culture and architectural heritage. It is home to old-age artisans who still practice the art of pottery, lanterns and other such handicrafts. Built over 2000 years ago, Hoi An Ancient Town has old bridges and traditional wooden houses that offer visitors a great peek into the Vietnamese legacy.
If you are casually looking for activities in the town, Hoi An offers lantern-making classes and traditional cooking lessons to all its visitors and locals, offering a great time to indulge in the local culture of this town.
Location: Quảng Nam Province (Central Vietnam)
3. My Son Sanctuary
This is an ancient Hindu temple built between the 4th and 13th centuries by the Champa kingdom. Located in a lush Valley in the mountains, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. However, this site was heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, but still, its ruins and remains make it exceptionally majestic, and a perfect highlight to include in Vietnam family tour packages.
My Son Sanctuary was recognised as a World Heritage Site in Vietnam by UNESCO in 1999. Visiting this picturesque site and ancient architecture will make you wonder about the past civilisation and history of Vietnam.
Location: Quang Nam Province (Central Vietnam)
4. Citadel of the Ho Dynasty
Built in the late 14th century, this UNESCO heritage site was once the capital of Vietnam for a brief period of time. The Fort is known for its astonishing massive limestone blocks, stunning landscape, rivers and mountains, adding to the beauty of the heritage.
The Citadel of the Ho Dynasty was recognised as a UNESCO heritage site in the year 2011 for its well-restored and inherent military history. The site is well-designed according to the ethics of feng shui and traditional Vietnamese norms.
Location: Thanh Hoa (North Central Coast of Vietnam)
5. Trang An Landscape complex
This site was designated by UNESCO as a heritage site in 2014 for its exceptional beauty and core ancient values. Also known as the “inland Halong Bay”, this site is a combination of spiritual and lush biodiversity. You can go for boat rides across the limestone caves like Sang and Toi caves, or ancient pagodas like Bai Dinh temple, which are among the top things to do in Vietnam.
Trang An is a must-visit destination for those who wish to experience Vietnam’s core traditional culture. For visitors, Trang An offers a variety of activities like boat tours, hiking to caves, and biking through the rice fields.
Location: Ninh Binh Province (Northern Vietnam)
6. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
This site was recognised by UNESCO in 2003 for its phenomenal number of caves and underground rivers, and unique ecosystems. This site also has the world’s largest cave called “Son Doong”, which is worth a visit for adventure buffs for the thrill and excitement it offers.
Phong Nha is one of the most visited sites by tourists worldwide, due to its massive chambers and mysterious natural surroundings. Built back around 400 million years ago, this site is home to many endemic and endangered species.
Location: Quang Binh (Central of Vietnam)
7. Complex of hue Monuments
This site became a part of UNESCO heritage in 1993 due to its culturally rich and majestic castle, tomb, temples and blooming gardens built in the Nguyen dynasty. Visitors tend to learn a lot about the ancient tradition of Vietnam while strolling through the Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and also appreciate the beauty of art and architecture.
The most astonishing fact about this site is that even after experiencing so many wars, destruction and natural disasters, it is intact and well-preserved.
Location: Thua Thien Hue Province, Hue City, (Central of Vietnam)
8. Thang Long Imperial Citadel
This imperial site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2010 due to its political significance and archaeological discoveries. This place has well-preserved palaces, wells and other artefacts that belong to the great Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties.
This citadel was built back in the 11th century and holds a huge Vietnamese and Chinese history. You will also witness a central flag tower that stands still and gives a scenic view of the city.
Location: Ha Noi (Northern Vietnam)
Conclusion
Finally, if you are planning a trip to Vietnam, then these UNESCO heritage sites need to hit your bucket list for a vibrant, memorable experience. For history buffs, visiting these picturesque landmarks will teach a lot about the layers of Vietnamese spirit, culture and brief ancient Dynasties.