Vietnam’s Rare Langur Home Seeks Global Recognition

The government has asked for approval to put the site on UNESCO’s nomination list.
The proposed site covers 11,000 hectares and includes three areas: Van Long Wetland, Kim Bang conservation area, and Tam Chuc landscape. These areas are connected by an ecological corridor.
This site has an important conservation story.
The area is home to the white-rumped langur, a primate species that is almost extinct. Over 90% of these langurs live here, making the site important for biodiversity.
The landscape is also very special.
The area has limestone mountains, islands, and wetlands. These formations provide a good home for the langurs, which live on cliffs and slopes.
The site is also culturally and historically significant.
Archaeological findings show that people have lived here for over 30,000 years. These findings show how people adapted to the environment and developed complex societies.
Being a World Heritage site would help the langurs and the environment, and show its importance in global conservation.
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is a key part of the nomination and is the largest inland wetland in the northern delta.
Van Long is known for its calm waters, limestone scenery, and natural beauty. It was recognized for having the largest population of white-rumped langurs and is a Ramsar site.
The Kim Bang Langur Conservation Area is home to over 100 langurs, the second-largest population globally.
The Tam Chuc Complex adds a cultural and spiritual dimension, with a large pagoda complex at its center.
Ninh Binh has focused on showing the site’s unique values, from its landscape and ecosystems to its biodiversity.
The nomination follows the 1972 UNESCO Convention and Vietnamese laws.
For local authorities, the nomination is about conserving biodiversity.
Ninh Binh will work with the Ministry, experts, and neighbors to balance preservation and development.
The story here is about the connection between nature and history.
Tran Nghi