Ha Long Bay
Vietnam ·
Description
Ha Long means 'descending dragon,' and legend says a dragon created these islands by striking the sea with its tail. 1,600 karst pillars emerge from jade-colored waters, sculpted by wind and waves into impossible shapes. Caves hide interior lakes, fishermen live in floating villages, and traditional junks sail between stone mountains.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Ha Long is an exceptional example of marine karst with over 1,600 islands and islets. Caves contain unique geological formations. The landscape has inspired Vietnamese legends and art for centuries.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For being an exceptional example of marine karst with over 1,600 islands and unique geological formations.
It was inscribed in 1994, extended in 2000, under criteria (vii) and (viii).
1-3 night cruises from Hanoi; include kayaking, caves and floating villages.
Yes, especially in most accessible areas; Bai Tu Long to the north is less crowded.
March-May and September-November; avoid June-August (typhoons) and December-February (cold and foggy).