12 Interesting Facts About Halong Bay
1. What?
Known as “Hạ Long” in Vietnamese, Halong Bay is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site that features thousands of stunning limestone karsts and approximately 2,000 islands and islets. In recent years, Halong Bay has seen a significant increase in tourism, welcoming around 5 million visitors in 2023, with approximately 3.5 million being international tourists.
2. Where?
Halong Bay is situated in the northeastern region of Vietnam, within Quang Ninh province, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
Quang Ninh province (Google maps)
Distances from Halong Bay to other key locations in Vietnam:
| Location | Distance | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 170 km (105 miles) | 2-3 hours (by bus) |
| Sapa | 491 km (305 miles) | 7-9 hours (by bus) |
| Da Nang | 879 km (546 miles) | 1.5 hours (plane) + 1 hour (bus) |
| Hoi An | 907 km (563 miles) | 1.5 hours (plane) + 1 hour (bus) |
| Nha Trang | 1400 km (869 miles) | 1.5 hours (plane) + 1 hour (bus) |
| Da Lat | 1527 km (948 miles) | 1.5 hours (plane) + 1 hour (bus) |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 1723 km (1070 miles) | 1.5 hours (plane) + 1 hour (bus) |
Did you know: The Beach Volleyball World Tour (Women) takes place on Tuan Chau Island (Quang Ninh province) annually in May.
2023 World Tour (Credit: vtv.vn)
3. When?
Halong Bay has rock formations dating back approximately 3 million years, but humans have inhabited the area for around 18,000 years. Today, visitors from all over the world explore Halong Bay year-round to enjoy its breathtaking scenery.
Inside Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay.
4. Size?
Halong Bay covers an area of 1,553 km² and has a coastline that stretches 120 km. The bay is predominantly shallow, with the deepest point measuring 33 feet (10 meters).
5. Population?
Approximately 1,600 individuals inhabit four floating fishing villages: Cua Van, Ba Hang, Cong Tau, and Vung Vieng. Consequently, most of the 2,000 islands in Halong Bay remain uninhabited.
Floating fishing village in Halong Bay.
6. Wildlife?
Halong Bay boasts a rich array of wildlife and high biodiversity. It is home to 450 species of mollusks as well as over 200 unique types of fish. Additionally, visitors may encounter hawks, sea eagles, monkeys, antelopes, lizards, and frogs on the various islands.
7. Attractions?
Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, Halong Bay offers attractions such as the floating fishing villages, where local fishermen continue their daily routines amidst the breathtaking scenery.
8. Activities?
Visitors to Halong Bay can enjoy activities including kayaking, squid fishing, Tai Chi, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Kayaking area in Halong Bay.
9. Festivities?
Since its inception in 2006, Halong Carnival has become the highlight of Halong Tourism Week, which is the largest celebration held in the area. Annually occurring in either April or May, this vibrant festival allows participants to showcase and celebrate Vietnamese culture, including events such as the Miss Halong Contest.
10. History?
Archaeologists indicate that human presence in Halong Bay dates back around 18,000 years, and the region has witnessed numerous naval conflicts between Vietnam and foreign invaders throughout its history.
11. Awards?
Halong Bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 and was recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature in 2007.
12. When to go?
The optimal time to explore Halong Bay is during the dry season, which lasts from October to April. During these months, the weather is typically milder, and visibility is improved for sightseeing.
Bonus Fact: Halong Bay has served as a breathtaking backdrop for various films, including Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), Kong: Skull Island (2017), and Pan (2015).
