Vietnam’s natural wonders win big at World Travel Awards 2025

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures continue to capture the world’s imagination, as two of its most iconic natural destinations of Dong Van Karst Plateau and  Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park were honored at the World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania 2025.

The awarding ceremony took place on October 13 in Hong Kong (China).

Dong Van Karst Plateau, located in Dong Van Commune, the northern province of Tuyen Quang, triumphed with the title of “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2025”, while the world-renowned Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park in the central province of Quang Binh was doubly honored as “Vietnam’s Leading Natural Destination 2025” and “Asia’s Leading National Park.”

These accolades not only reinforce Vietnam’s growing reputation as a world-class destination but also reflect the country’s commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage while welcoming global travelers with open arms.

This is not the first time Dong Van has stood in the spotlight. In recent years, the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark has consistently garnered international acclaim, previously earning titles such as “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourist Destination 2023” and “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2024”.

These repeated recognitions highlight the area’s rare combination of dramatic geology and rich cultural diversity.

According to Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Tuyen Quang Province, the award represents a celebration of the ongoing efforts to protect and promote the cultural richness of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.

“Developing sustainable, green, high-quality tourism while hand-in-hand with conserving nature and geology in the Dong Van Karst Plateau has significantly improved the lives of people in this northern border region,” he emphasized.

Spanning more than 2,345 square kilometers, Dong Van Karst Plateau is a geological wonder formed over 500 million years. Its awe-inspiring limestone formations are not only a testament to ancient tectonic movements but also serve as a natural museum, unrivaled in vibrancy and scale.

Beyond its geological value, the plateau is home to 17 ethnic minority groups, each contributing to a colorful mosaic of traditions, customs and community life.

While Dong Van tells a story of highland heritage and stone landscapes, Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park offers an entirely different but equally mesmerizing journey into the heart of Vietnam’s underground kingdom.

Covering over 201,000 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its pristine cave systems, towering limestone mountains and lush tropical forests.

Often referred to as the “Kingdom of Caves”, the park boasts some of the largest and most spectacular caves in the world, including the legendary Son Doong.

Complementing these natural achievements, Vietravel Tourism Joint Stock Company was also recognized with three prestigious titles: “Asia’s Leading Package Tour Operator”, “Vietnam’s Leading Package Tour Operator” and “Vietnam’s Leading Travel Company” - a testament to the country’s growing excellence in tourism services and hospitality.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards is one of the most prestigious honors in the global tourism industry. It recognizes excellence across all key sectors, from travel and aviation to hotels and destinations.

For Vietnam, these latest accolades represent not just a celebration of its scenic wonders, but a powerful invitation to travelers around the globe: come and discover the richness of a country where nature and culture are woven together in unforgettable ways.