Establishing “geological trails” promises to unlock sustainable development potential for tourism in Lang Son. At the same time, it represents a crucial step in realising Lang Son’s vision for its recently recognised UNESCO Global Geopark, turning heritage into a new economic driver, spreading its value to the community, and reaching out to the world.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on Lan Ty Lake (Lang Son).

From global recognition

On April 17, 2025, Lang Son Geopark was officially recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as a Global Geopark.

This marks an important milestone, reflecting a shift in Lang Son’s development mindset, moving from mere conservation to the sustainable development of heritage, promoting socio-economic development, and improving people’s livelihoods.

Covering an area of more than 4,842 square kilometre accounting for about 58% of the province’s total area, the UNESCO Global Geopark in Lang Son boasts numerous features conducive to developing a unique geological tourism region: a distinctive limestone karst ecosystem, over 200 fascinating caves, rich flora and fauna, diverse ethnic communities with vibrant cultural identities, the Mother Goddess worship recognised by UNESCO, and, notably, a geological history spanning more than 500 million years.

According to Pham Thi Huong, Deputy Head of the UNESCO Global Geopark Management Board in Lang Son, the province has clearly identified three core tourism products: geological tourism, adventure tourism, and community-based cultural tourism. In line with this, 38 satellite tourist attractions have been established along four major routes.

Among these, the “geological trails” serve as key pathways linking destinations, guiding visitors on journeys to deeply explore the unique geological, cultural, and ecological values of the region.

This is also a concrete solution to fulfilling UNESCO’s criteria on conservation, education, and sustainable development, to which Lang Son has committed itself.

…to pathways of opportunity

At present, Lang Son is implementing the geological trail known as the “Journey to the Heart of Lan Ty Lake”, expected to be completed between June and September 2025. The trail spans approximately six kilometres, winding through valleys and sharp limestone passes in the Huu Lien Special-Use Forest area.

Alongside Lan Ty, other trails such as “The Magnificent Dinosaur Spine – Phja Pò Peak” and “The Whispering Rhododendrons – Phja Mè Peak” are also being actively developed.

According to Associate Professor Dr Tran Tan Van, former Director of the Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources and a seasoned researcher on Viet Nam’s geoparks, “Establishing geological trails is the right approach, shifting from passive conservation to sustainable development. When local communities are both creators and beneficiaries of these trails, the heritage’s value will be preserved for the long term.”

Not only local authorities and communities, but also travel companies and tourism enterprises have become actively involved in recent times. Recently, Viet Nam Expeditions Joint Stock Company was granted permission to operate adventure tourism activities at Yen Son Heaven’s Gate and along the geological trail “Journey to the Heart of Lan Ty Lake” within the UNESCO Global Geopark in Lang Son.

This provides a basis for the company to research, develop, and launch specialised exploration tours meeting international safety and conservation standards, offering unique geological experiences such as daring cave explorations, limestone rock climbing, and forest trekking combined with geological insights.

Pham Van Manh, Director of Viet Nam Expeditions Joint Stock Company, shared: “Lang Son boasts a magnificent system of caves, sinkholes, limestone mountains, and unique geological heritage of significant scientific and aesthetic value. This forms a solid foundation for developing specialised exploration and adventure tourism products.

Additionally, the province’s rich ethnic cultural identity and distinctive cuisine create a compelling overall experience for visitors.

Given the growing demand for experiential travel, nature exploration, and heritage discovery, the UNESCO Global Geopark in Lang Son is well positioned to become a premier destination in this segment.”

Several other tour operators have also surveyed and drafted plans to offer outdoor educational tours and cave and sinkhole expeditions linked to the geological trail network.

On May 30, 2025, the Standing Committee of the Lang Son Provincial Party Committee issued Resolution No. 223-NQ/TU on the conservation, embellishment, and promotion of the values of the UNESCO Global Geopark in Lang Son for the period 2025–2030, with a vision to 2035.

This concrete step sets the goal that by 2035, the UNESCO Global Geopark in Lạng Sơn will possess a modern and synchronised infrastructure system, deeply reflecting the diverse cultural identity of local ethnic communities, while natural heritage and biodiversity will be sustainably preserved. Through this, the province aims to develop distinctive, high-quality tourism and service products.

As the world moves towards low-emission and responsible tourism models, Lang Son has chosen to pursue geological tourism founded on conservation, community involvement, and education.

These geological trails are not merely unique tourism products but also represent “green infrastructure” - converging nature, culture, community knowledge, and strategic vision.

Today’s geological trails are indeed solid steps forward in securing Lang Son’s place on both the national and international geological tourism map.

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