Western Nghe An

Western Nghe An is a large biosphere reserve in Nghe An Province, featuring forests, mountains, and river systems spread across nine mountainous districts. It contains Pu Mat National Park along with Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserves, which together form a varied landscape with elevations ranging from lowlands to high peaks.

The area gained UNESCO biosphere reserve status in 2007, marking an official recognition of its ecological importance. This designation brought commitment to international standards for conservation and sustainable development in the region.

The Thai people form the majority in this region, and walking through the communities reveals their agricultural methods and craft traditions woven into daily life. Alongside them, O Du, Kho Mu, Kinh, Tay, and H'Mong groups maintain their own distinct village customs and ways of living.

The reserve spans nine districts with varying elevations, from lower areas to high mountain peaks, offering different terrain for visitors to explore. Those planning hiking or wildlife watching should prepare for mountain conditions and bring suitable footwear and equipment for the terrain.

The reserve shelters hundreds of mammal and bird species along with numerous reptiles and fish species, with different animals inhabiting different elevation zones within the same landscape. This concentration of wildlife across varying heights makes the place scientifically significant in ways many visitors do not initially realize.