Vietnam’s growing reputation as a world-class destination was firmly cemented after two of its most iconic natural wonders secured top titles at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania 2025. The prestigious ceremony took place in Hong Kong (China) on October 13.
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, located in the northernmost reaches of Ha Giang, is one of Vietnam’s most significant geological and cultural landmarks. File photo
The accolades reinforce the nation’s commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage while welcoming global travelers.
The Dong Van Karst Plateau in Tuyen Quang Province triumphed with the title of “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2025.”
The world-renowned Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, often referred to as the “Kingdom of Caves,” received double honours, securing both “Vietnam’s Leading Natural Destination 2025” and “Asia’s Leading National Park.” The national park spans over 201,000 square kilometres and is famed for its pristine cave systems and towering limestone mountains.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, first recognized by UNESCO in 2003 and recently expanded and inscribed as a transboundary World Heritage Site in 2025, continues to captivate global media, including the recent BBC filming for Planet Earth III, solidifying its position as a global geological phenomenon.
Son Doong Cave the biggest cave located in the core zone of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Photo: Oxalis Adventure
The award for the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark follows repeated international acclaim, including “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourist Destination 2023” and “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination 2024,” highlighting its rare combination of dramatic geology formed over 500 million years and its rich cultural diversity of 17 ethnic minority groups.
Speaking on the achievement, Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Tuyen Quang Province, emphasised that the award celebrates ongoing efforts to protect cultural richness and promote sustainable development.
“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 stated.
The Dong Van Karst Plateau secured its third re-recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023, following its initial inscription on October 3, 2010, which made it Vietnam’s first and Southeast Asia’s second geological park. This enduring UNESCO status, previously renewed in 2014 and 2019, ensures the Plateau remains a major international draw, celebrated for its unique tourist attractions like the Lung Cu Flagpole, Ma Pi Leng Pass, H’Mong King Mansion, and vibrant cultural events such as the Khau Vai Market and H’Mong Khen (Flute) Festival.
Complementing the destination wins, the domestic tourism sector also received high recognition. Vietravel Tourism Joint Stock Company was awarded 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 improving standards in service and hospitality.
The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, are one of the most respected honours in the global tourism industry, recognising excellence across all key sectors.
