THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam’s awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural gems continue to captivate global audiences, as two of its most iconic natural wonders—the Dong Van Karst Plateau and Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park—were honored at the World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania 2025.
The prestigious ceremony took place on October 13 in Hong Kong, China.
Vietnamese delegates at the World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania 2025 ceremony in Hong Kong, China, on October 13.
The Dong Van Karst Plateau, nestled in Dong Van Commune within the northern province of Ha Giang, claimed the title of “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2025.” Meanwhile, the globally acclaimed Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province secured dual honors: “Vietnam’s Leading Natural Destination 2025” and “Asia’s Leading National Park.”
These awards not only solidify Vietnam’s status as a world-class travel destination but also underscore the nation’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage while warmly welcoming international visitors.
This is not Dong Van’s first moment in the spotlight. In recent years, the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark has consistently earned international acclaim, previously securing titles such as “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourist Destination 2023” and “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2024.”
These repeated accolades highlight the region’s unique blend of dramatic geological formations and vibrant cultural diversity.
The breathtaking vistas of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Photo: Check In Vietnam
According to Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Ha Giang Province, the award celebrates ongoing efforts to safeguard and promote the cultural richness of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.
“Developing sustainable, eco-friendly, high-quality tourism alongside preserving the natural and geological wonders of the Dong Van Karst Plateau has significantly enhanced the livelihoods of residents in this northern border region,” he noted.
Spanning over 2,345 square kilometers, the Dong Van Karst Plateau is a geological marvel shaped over 500 million years. Its stunning limestone formations not only bear witness to ancient tectonic activity but also serve as a living museum, unmatched in vibrancy and scale.
Beyond its geological significance, the plateau is home to 17 ethnic minority groups, each contributing to a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and communal life.
While Dong Van showcases a narrative of highland heritage and stone landscapes, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park offers a distinct yet equally enchanting journey into Vietnam’s subterranean realm.
Encompassing over 201,000 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its pristine cave systems, towering limestone peaks, and lush tropical forests.
Often dubbed the “Kingdom of Caves,” the park houses some of the world’s largest and most spectacular caves, including the legendary Son Doong Cave.
The UNESCO-recognized Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Photo: Check In Vietnam
In addition to these natural triumphs, Vietravel Tourism Joint Stock Company earned three distinguished titles: “Asia’s Leading Package Tour Operator,” “Vietnam’s Leading Package Tour Operator,” and “Vietnam’s Leading Travel Company”—a testament to the nation’s rising excellence in tourism services and hospitality.
Founded in 1995, the World Travel Awards is among the most esteemed honors in the global tourism industry, recognizing outstanding achievements across travel, aviation, hospitality, and destinations.
For Vietnam, these latest accolades are more than a celebration of its natural beauty—they are a compelling invitation to travelers worldwide: discover a country where nature and culture intertwine in unforgettable ways.
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