Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2014
Size of heritage: 6,172 ha
- Buffer zone: 6,080 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 105,896°
Latitude: 20,257°
Summary
Situated on the southern shore of the Red River Delta, Trang An is a spectacular landscape of limestone karst peaks permeated with valleys, some of which are submerged, and surrounded by steep, almost vertical cliffs. Exploration of some of the highest altitude caves dotted across the landscape has revealed archaeological traces of human activity dating back almost 30,000 years. They illustrate the occupation of these mountains by hunter-gatherers and how they adapted to climatic and environmental changes. The property also includes Hoa Lu, the old capital of Viet Nam in the 10th and 11th centuries AD, as well as temples, pagodas, paddy-field landscapes, with villages and sacred sites.
Location on Map
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Trang An Landscape Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam
The Trang An Landscape Complex, located in Vietnam at coordinates N20 15 24 E105 53 47, is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region. Spanning over 10,000 hectares, this complex is renowned for its stunning karst landscape, intricate cave systems, and rich biodiversity.
Historical Significance
The Trang An Landscape Complex holds immense historical importance, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The area served as a crucial political and cultural center during the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries. It was during this period that the complex became a hub for religious activities, with the construction of numerous temples, pagodas, and shrines.
Furthermore, the complex played a pivotal role in the defense of Vietnam against foreign invasions. The natural barriers provided by the karst mountains and the intricate cave systems offered strategic advantages to the Vietnamese military, making it a significant site in the country's history of resistance.
Current State
Today, the Trang An Landscape Complex continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage. The complex is home to a network of limestone karsts, verdant valleys, and winding rivers, creating a picturesque setting that leaves visitors in awe.
One of the main attractions of the Trang An Landscape Complex is its system of caves. These caves, such as the Hang Mua Cave and the Trang An Grottoes, are adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, creating a surreal underground world. Visitors can explore these caves by boat, gliding through the crystal-clear waters and marveling at the natural wonders that lie within.
The complex is also home to numerous temples and pagodas, each with its own unique architectural style and historical significance. These religious sites provide a glimpse into the spiritual practices and beliefs of the Vietnamese people throughout history.
Moreover, the Trang An Landscape Complex boasts a diverse ecosystem, with over 500 species of flora and fauna. The area is a haven for wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the Delacour's langur and the Asian black bear. The complex's rich biodiversity has led to its recognition as an important ecological site, contributing to its UNESCO World Heritage status.
To preserve and protect the Trang An Landscape Complex, conservation efforts are in place. Strict regulations are enforced to ensure the sustainable management of the site, balancing tourism with the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. These measures aim to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the complex, allowing future generations to appreciate its beauty and historical significance.
In conclusion, the Trang An Landscape Complex in Vietnam is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the stunning karst landscape, intricate cave systems, and rich cultural heritage of the region. With its historical significance, breathtaking scenery, and diverse ecosystem, this complex continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Hotels and places to stay
Hoang Son Peace
The Reed hotel
The Vancouver Hotel - Ninh Binh
Binh Minh Homestay
Videos from the area
Kich - Cycling in Vietnam: Nho Quan - Bai Dinh pagoda - Ninh Binh.
Source GoPro cua Kich tu 102 den 108.
Ninh Binh Travel Ninh Binh Tours Du Lich Ninh Binh Diem Den Ninh Binh.wmv
http://www.asiapacifictravel.vn Ninh Binh Travel Ninh Binh Tours Du Lich Ninh Binh Diem Den Ninh Binh.Vietnam tours 2015-2016, Vietnam package tour 2015-2016, Indochina tours 2015-2016.
The Karsts of Ninh Binh
A short stretch of road northwest of Ninh Binh, Vietnam. These limestone karsts dominate the landscape throughout quite a large area. It's very similar to Ha Long Bay, but without the sea.
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Cat Bi International AirportMedium airport - 66 mi (107 km)
Noi Bai International AirportLarge airport - 67 mi (108 km)
Vinh AirportMedium airport - 106 mi (171 km)
Sam Neua AirportMedium airport - 119 mi (192 km)
Na-San AirportSmall airport - 137 mi (222 km)
Nanning Wuxu AirportLarge airport - 219 mi (352 km)
Sanya Phoenix International AirportLarge airport - 266 mi (429 km)
Da Nang International AirportLarge airport - 328 mi (528 km)
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
- Binh My
- Chi Ne
- Goi
- Ha Trung
- Kim Tan
- Lam
- Me
- My Loc
- Nga Son
- Nho Quan
- Phat Diem
- Tam Diep
- Thanh Luu
- Thanh Pho Ninh Binh
- Thien Ton
- Yen Ninh
- Yen Thinh
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.