Lang Son Geopark recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark

On September 8, 2024, during the 8th International Conference of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network in the Asia-Pacific region, the UNESCO Global Geopark Council met, evaluated and voted to approve Lang Son Geopark as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

8th International Conference of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network in the Asia-Pacific Region

Established by the Lang Son Provincial People's Committee in 2021, Lang Son Geopark spans nearly four years of consistent efforts in preserving, restoring, and promoting its geological, cultural values and natural landscape with the expectation to soon participate in Global Geopark Network. Lang Son geopark covers Bac Son, Chi Lang, Huu Lung, Loc Binh, Van Quan district and Lang Son city, with a total area of 4,842.58 km² and a population of nearly 627,000 people, representing 58% of the province’s area and 78% of its population. Its theme is "The flow of life in the sacred land," features 38 attractions across four tourist routes including “Exploring the Upper World”, “Journey to the Heavenly Realm”, “The Life in the Mortal Realm” and “Path to the Underwater Palace”.

In November 2023, the Lang Son Provincial People's Committee collaborated with the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO to finalize the application for the recognition of Lang Son Geopark as a UNESCO Global Geopark and submitted it to UNESCO.

Following research, inspection and field surveys, domestic and international scientists affirmed Lang Son’s globally significant values, making it a strong candidate for a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Bac Son limestone range– A unique geological and scenic feature of Lang Son Geopark. Photo: Bui Thuan

The recognition of Lang Son Geopark as a UNESCO Global Geopark marks a significant milestone in international economic integration, connecting Lang Son with partners in the UNESCO Global Geopark Network. It contributes to sustainable development goals, providing momentum and opportunities to enhance resource allocation for managing, preserving, and promoting geological, cultural, historical, archaeological, and biodiversity heritage, as well as the province’s iconic landscapes.  Additionally, Lang Son Geopark’s distinctive and outstanding values will play a pivotal role in the conservation and development of the global geopark system.

Lang Son Geopark is expected to receive its UNESCO Global Geopark Certificate in 2025 in Chile.

Mai Thu