Immerse yourself in the untouched splendor of Ba Be National Park, a hidden gem nestled in the northeastern province of Bac Kan, Vietnam. Situated more than 300 meters above sea level, this sanctuary is revered as a “green lung” within the sprawling Viet Bac forest, boasting a mesmerizing blend of rivers, lakes, and mountains.
Established on November 10, 1992, under Prime Minister’s Decision No.83/1992/QD-TTg, Ba Be National Park spans an area of 40 kilometers to the Ra market, encompassing seven communes of Ba Be district. It owes its geological heritage to the late Cambrian period, over 200 million years ago, forming a unique ecosystem atop limestone mountains.
At the heart of the park lies Ba Be Lake, one of Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lakes. Stretching over 8 kilometers in length with a surface area of approximately 500 hectares, this aquatic marvel comprises three interconnected lakes: Pe Lam, Pe Lu, and Pe Leng. Recognized as one of the world’s 20 special freshwater lakes in need of conservation, Ba Be Lake earned its status during the World Lake Conference in March 1995.
Moreover, the park’s significance transcends its natural beauty. Designated as a national historical and cultural relic site in 1996, Ba Be National Park garnered further attention when the UNESCO Vietnam Committee proposed its recognition as a world natural heritage site in 1997.
Covering a total area of 7,610 hectares, the park features four functional sub-areas, including rocky mountain forests, rare animal habitats, ecological restoration zones, and specialized administrative and research areas. Additionally, a 42,000-hectare buffer zone safeguards the park’s ecological integrity.
Ba Be National Park teems with a diverse array of flora and fauna, boasting 650 plant species, 412 animal species, and 332 butterfly species. Notably, the park harbors numerous rare and endangered species listed in the Vietnam Red Book, including the elusive Tonkin snub-nosed monkey.
Beyond its biodiversity, Ba Be National Park captivates visitors with its natural wonders, including Na Phoong, Ao Tien, Puong, and Tien caves, as well as the majestic Dau Dang waterfall. Moreover, the park’s historical significance dates back to the 16th century, when it served as a strategic stronghold for resistance against feudal invaders.
As Bac Kan province strives to secure UNESCO recognition for Ba Be ASEAN Heritage Garden, local authorities remain committed to preserving the park’s ecological balance while ensuring the welfare of communities residing within its core area.
Discover the untamed beauty and cultural heritage of Ba Be National Park, a testament to Vietnam’s rich natural legacy and a beacon of conservation in Southeast Asia.
