There’s a mythical being living in the jade waters of Ha Long Bay. Ancient stories tell of a dragon-like creature and its children who defended Vietnam when invaders attempted to attack. After destroying the enemies, the creatures left behind giant emerald teeth to protect the land, which turned into approximately 3 000 islets and islands scattered throughout the area. Some believe that the Tarasque and its offspring became humans. To others, the beasts still hide beneath the waves. Whether these tales are true or not, the karst seascape of Ha Long Bay evokes a sense of magic.
Spanning 43 400 hectares of limestone isles above coral reefs, the resplendence of the bay stretches far beyond what the eye can see. This is one of the finest examples of the karst structures formed in a tropical climate. Their conical shape is a result of the sea gently brushing against them over millions of years – or was the Tarasque scratching its back? Either way, inside the karsts an equally awe-inspiring scene is laid out. Tunnels with stalactites decorating the ceiling offer passage through the rock formations in the Ba Ham Lake. Accessible only by kayak or sampan boats, the waters here are crystalline enough for people to spot the marine life below their oars.
Until the 19th century, Chinese and Vietnamese pirates paraded their fearsome flotillas throughout the area. Today, it’s frequented for fishing, as there are over a thousand species in the water. Three traditional floating villages remain a strong presence here. With some 400 households supported by aquaculture, these families are an anchor of Vietnamese culture. At buoyant restaurants, local seafood is available at its freshest.
The seemingly endless adventures in Ha Long Bay will leave travellers with a heightened sense of intrigue. Whether kayaking across the lakes or exploring caves, each activity is just a drop in how much this region has to offer. Both the limestone karsts with the foliage-dusted peaks and the swirling currents protect the sanctity of this space, just as the dragon intended. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, entering Ha Long Bay is an otherworldly experience. Here, reality is the stuff of legends.
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