Vietnam has new national park

The decision, issued by the provincial People’s Committee, also makes the new park the second of its kind in Lao Cai, alongside Hoang Lien National Park.

Spanning some 18,510 hectares, Bat Xat National Park is located in Muong Hum, Den Sang, and Y Ty Communes.

Its zoning includes a strictly protected core area of some 14,690 hectares, an ecological restoration zone covering roughly 3,440 hectares, and an administrative and service area of 380 hectares.

The park’s buffer zone encompasses 32 villages across the three communes.

The park plays a key role in preserving intact forest ecosystems, safeguarding biodiversity and genetic resources, and supporting environmental education and scientific research.

It also helps to stabilize water resources, promote eco-tourism, and provide forest environmental services, contributing to improving local livelihoods while bolstering socio-economic development and ensuring national defense and security in the border region.

Geographically, Bat Xat National Park marks the beginning of Hoang Lien Son Range, stretching from Y Ty Commune toward the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam.

Its varied terrain and elevation gradients create rich biodiversity in the area.

As many as 976 species of vascular plants were found within the park, including 137 rare and endangered species listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book and the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List (2021).

Notably, the park hosts 67 species endemic to northern Vietnam and 38 species unique to the country.

Also, the park is home to 173 animal species, including 42 mammals, 73 birds, 20 reptiles, and 38 amphibians.

Among them are numerous rare and endangered species, including 18 mammals, 11 birds, six reptiles, and 17 amphibians recognized in national and international conservation listings.

Notably, several endemic, endangered, rare, and highly valuable species for conservation have been identified, including Hoang Lien horned toad and Fansipan horned toad.

Beyond its ecological value, the park is distinguished by dramatic natural landscapes.

It boasts Vietnam’s highest peaks, including Pu Ta Leng, Ky Quan San, and Nhiu Co San.

Visitors can also explore scenic routes such as waterfall trails, ancient forests atop Cu Nhu San, the historic stone road of Pavie, and border marker No. 85.