Dong Van - World’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025

The Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark in Ha Giang Province, Vietnam has been honored with the prestigious title of “World’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025” at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Ceremony held on December 6, 2025 at Exhibition World Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain. This accolade marks a historic achievement for Ha Giang and highlights the geopark’s growing global prominence in cultural and sustainable tourism.

Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark Named World’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025

The Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark in Ha Giang Province, Vietnam has been honored with the prestigious title of “World’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025” at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Ceremony held on December 6, 2025 at Exhibition World Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain. This accolade marks a historic achievement for Ha Ging and highlights the geopark’s growing global prominence in cultural and sustainable tourism. 

A Milestone for Cultural Tourism in Vietnam

The award was presented during the annual World Travel Awards, widely regarded as one of the most respected honors in the global tourism industry. It recognizes destinations that demonstrate excellence in cultural preservation, visitor experience, and community engagement. This is the first time Ha Giang has received such a world-class cultural accolade, underscoring the international appeal and competitiveness of the Dong Van Karst Plateau on the global tourism stage.

The geopark’s unique combination of extraordinary geological formations, deep cultural heritage, and ethnic diversity sets it apart as a destination of both scientific importance and vibrant living culture. Recognized by UNESCO as a Global Geopark in 2010, the plateau preserves geological records dating back hundreds of millions of years and is home to 17 ethnic minority groups, whose traditions and heritage contribute to a rich cultural landscape.

A Celebration of Natural and Cultural Heritage

Located in northern Vietnam, the Dong Van Karst Plateau spans a vast area of remarkable rock formations, ancient fossils, caves, and layered sedimentary structures that attract geologists and travelers alike. Equally compelling is the living cultural heritage – from traditional festivals and crafts to community livelihood practices – which reflects centuries of human interaction with this dramatic landscape.

Boosting Sustainable Tourism and Local Development

The recognition as World’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025 not only brings international prestige but also serves as a powerful catalyst for sustainable tourism development in the region. It highlights how cultural heritage can become a strategic asset for economic growth, supporting local communities while preserving identity and natural environment.

About the World Travel Awards

Founded in 1993, the World Travel Awards are often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel industry” — honoring excellence across all sectors of tourism worldwide. Winners are selected through a global voting process involving travel professionals, industry experts, and consumers, making this recognition a meaningful benchmark of global travel distinctions.