Na Hang - Lam Binh: An ecological masterpiece

Amid the rugged mountains of northeastern Vietnam, the Na Hang - Lam Binh Special National Nature Reserve boasts a rich ecosystem featuring numerous rare species of flora and fauna, spectacular landscapes and the distinctive cultural values of local ethnic communities. With systematic efforts to conserve and promote its heritage values, the locality is gradually unlocking the reserve’s potential, expanding development space and moving toward green and sustainable tourism.

The beauty of the Na Hang - Lam Binh Special National Nature Reserve.

The Na Hang Nature Reserve alone is home to 1,357 species of vascular plants, including 74 rare species and 62 listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book. Its fauna includes 90 mammal species, 263 bird species, 25 reptile species, 35 amphibian species and around 500 insect species. Notably, signs of the presence of the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey, one of the world’s rarest primates, have been recorded in deep forests. A survey by the Primate Conservation Foundation (PRCF) also recorded more than 100 white-cheeked langurs living and moving within the area.

In 2018, the Na Hang - Lam Binh Nature Reserve was recognized by the Prime Minister as a Special National Relic for its scenic landscape. The Na Hang – Lam Binh area is also included in the dossier for the Ba Be - Na Hang Natural Heritage Site, which is on UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites, opening up prospects for Tuyen Quang’s scenic attractions to gain greater international recognition.

To promote its natural and cultural values, Na Hang Commune has coordinated with relevant agencies to organize the outdoor performance “Na Hang’s Dragon Vein,” recreating the legend of 99 mountains where 99 phoenixes came to build their nests. In Thuong Lam Commune, the core area of the national scenic site, attractions including Khuoi Nhi Waterfall, Nam Me Waterfall, Khuoi Sung Waterfall, Khuoi Pin Cave and Coc Vai are drawing visitors. The commune currently has 31 homestays and more than 10 bungalows, with capacity to accommodate thousands of visitors each night.

Visitors explore Khuoi Nhi Waterfall.

In July 2026, more than 60 travel companies participating in a Hanoi - Tuyen Quang tourism product survey and connectivity program experienced the destination firsthand and spoke highly of its tourism potential. Experts said the locality needs to diversify visitor experiences by combining kayaking, trekking and waterfall bathing with activities such as making traditional cakes, cooking, weaving, herbal baths and cultural exchanges featuring Then and Pao dung singing, helping extend visitors’ stays and increase tourism spending.

The move also concretizes Decision No. 763/QD-TTg issued by the Prime Minister in 2025 on the planning task for the conservation, restoration and rehabilitation of the Special National Scenic Landscape of the Na Hang - Lam Binh Nature Reserve. The planning study covers more than 132,142 hectares, including over 61,349 hectares designated as a protected area.

According to Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the province aims to submit the Na Hang - Lam Binh Ecotourism Area planning scheme to the Government for approval by April 2027. The plan is expected to provide a legal framework for attracting investment and developing tourism in harmony with nature conservation, turning the region’s “forest capital” into a driver of the green economy while balancing environmental protection, cultural preservation and community development.

Bien Luan