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Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay, located in the Gulf of Tonkin, includes some 1600 islands and islets forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by man. The exceptional esthetic values of this site are complimented by its great biological interest.
PHYSICAL FEATURES Ha Long is a large bay with a multitude of limestone rocks emerging from the Hon Gai sea, schistic islands from the Cam Pha sea and a limited number of earth islands formed from decayed lateritic mountains. In total, there are 1,600 islands and islets, of which 1,000 have been named. Larger islands, rising to 100-200m, are found in the south, with smaller islets of only 5-10m height interspersed. To the east of the Bay medium size islands feature almost vertical slopes. Numerous caves and grottoes are found, with stalactites and stalagmites. The earth islands are inhabited.
VEGETATION There is a diverse flora throughout Ha Long, and primary tropical forest is found, mostly on the islands of Ba Mun and Cat Ba.
FAUNA Results from preliminary surveys indicate the presence of about 1,000 fish species. Mammals, reptiles and birds are found on the islands, especially the earth type.
CULTURAL HERITAGE Numerous archaeological sites have been found and at Giap Khau (Hon Gai) there is evidence to suggest occupation by the Hoa Binh Culture, some 10,000 years ago present. Archaeological sites at Tuan Chau, Ngoc Vung, Cai Dam, Dong Naim and Cat have revealed so many artifacts that they have been grouped under the term 'Ha Long Culture', typical of the northeastern coast of Viet Nam in the Neolithic Age.During prehistoric times, Ha Long was a significant port, located on the trade routes between China, Japan, and other countries in South East Asia.
LOCAL HUMAN POPULATION An unspecified population makes its living in and around Ha Long, which is a major centre for fishing, agriculture and maritime transport. Steps have been taken to open new ports, factories and housing on the shore in line with a long -term economic development programme.
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posted to World Heritage Sites. at Sat Oct 25 20:05:53 EDT 2003.
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