Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park, a famous destination, is a pride of Vietnam's natural heritage. Located about 120 km southwest of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park is nestled deep within the majestic Tam Diep mountain range. Established in 1962, Cuc Phuong is not only an extensive nature reserve but also a repository of distinctive cultural and historical values, with an incredibly rich flora and fauna.

1. Geographical Location and Natural Features

Cuc Phuong is situated at the intersection of three provinces: Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. The park covers an area of ​​approximately 22,408 hectares, with diverse terrain including tropical rainforest, limestone mountains, and small stream systems. The Tam Diep mountain range – where Cuc Phuong National Park is located – reaches up to 636 meters in height, creating a spectacular landscape and significantly impacting the park's hydrological system. With its karst terrain formed over 200 million years ago, the park features abundant streams, caves, and diverse vegetation, especially large timber trees, medicinal plants, edible plants, and rare wildlife species.

2. Ecological Characteristics

Cuc Phuong National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, home to over 2,200 species of higher plants, including 433 medicinal plants and 229 edible plants. Unique species such as Green Terminalia, Chinese Parashorea, ancient Lagerstroemia, and ancient Dracontomelon trees (reaching heights of 45 meters and diameters of up to 5 meters) can be found here. Additionally, Cuc Phuong is a haven for preserving rare animals, notably the white-buttocked langur, a famous species and the symbol of the national park.

Moreover, Cuc Phuong is a habitat for numerous bird, butterfly, and insect species. Remarkably, the park has discovered up to 280 butterfly species, including ones never recorded in Vietnam. Visiting Cuc Phuong, tourists will have the opportunity to participate in bird-watching activities, learn about the flora and fauna, and explore the fascinating mysteries of nature.

3. History and Culture

Beyond its ecological value, Cuc Phuong boasts a long and distinctive history. Archaeologists have uncovered many prehistoric relics, such as Ancient People Cave – a residential and burial site of ancient humans, indicating that people lived here 7,000 to 12,000 years ago. Cuc Phuong National Park is also home to the Muong ethnic minority community, with unique cultural features like stilt houses, terraced fields, and brocade weaving. Visitors here can not only immerse themselves in nature but also learn about the cultural life of the local people.

4. Main Attractions

When visiting Cuc Phuong, you cannot miss the following prominent attractions:
• Cuc Phuong Visitor Center: The first of its kind in Indochina specializing in nature conservation and environmental education.
• Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden: A place for collecting and cultivating rare plants, voted as one of the top three botanical gardens globally.
• Animal Rescue and Conservation Center: A place for rescuing, conserving, and developing rare wild animals, such as endangered langur species.
• Prehistoric Caves: Caves like Nguoi Xua Cave, Con Moong Cave, Son Cung Cave, and Thuy Tien Cave are important archaeological sites, helping visitors explore the history of human formation and the area's ecology.
• May Bac Peak: The highest peak in Cuc Phuong forest, at 648 meters. Visitors will have to hike through 3 km of steep rocky forest to reach the peak, from which they can view the entire forest and the plains of 4 districts across 3 provinces.
• Yen Quang Lake: A beautiful lake with a small island featuring an ancient temple, home to many waterbird species. The scenic lake reflects the mountain and forest, creating a striking view.
• Pho Ma Cave: About 2 km on foot from Yen Quang Lake, Pho Ma Cave stands out with its majestic beauty and historical value.
Cuc Phuong Forest is being proposed for recognition as a World Cultural Heritage site.

5. Awards and Recognition

With its natural and cultural values, Cuc Phuong has been honored by the World Travel Awards as Asia's Leading National Park for six consecutive years, 2019-2024. This highlights the exceptional value of Cuc recognition Phuong, not only as an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts but also as a perfect place to learn about culture, history, and species conservation.

6. Experiential Activities

At Cuc Phuong, in addition to visiting historical sites and exploring the ecosystem, tourists can engage in eco-activities, mountain climbing, stream bathing, camping, or participate in adventure travel programs. This truly is a fantastic destination for those seeking peace, immersion in nature, and experiencing a life close to the wild environment.

Conclusion

Cuc Phuong National Park is not only a rich natural reserve but also an attractive eco-tourism destination where you can experience the grandeur of nature, explore unique cultural and historical values, and, at the same time, serve as a valuable conservation site for endangered plant and animal species.