Quang Tri, a province in Vietnam's North Central Coast region, is a remarkable destination along the Central Heritage Trail. This land holds profound historical significance, echoing with heroic stories from the nation's two great wars of resistance.

History

Quang Tri was first established as a dinh (administrative division) in 1801 by Emperor Nguyen Anh after reclaiming power. In 1827, it became a tran (district) and was later renamed a province in 1832. After several administrative mergers with Hue and Quang Binh, Quang Tri was re-established as an independent province in July 1989, with Dong Ha Town designated as its capital. Today, the province encompasses 2 towns, 6 districts, and 136 communes, wards, and towns.

Nature and Culture

Quang Tri’s natural beauty is defined by its majestic mountains and waterfalls, such as Ta Lung Mountain and Ta Puong and Chenh Venh Waterfalls, offering breathtaking landscapes for nature lovers to explore.

This land is steeped in history and cultural exchanges. It was once a crossroads of the Champa and Dai Viet civilizations, serving as a waypoint for Vietnamese settlers moving southward. Quang Tri's intangible cultural heritage has been enriched by the traditions of the Cham, Viet, Bru Van Kieu, and Ta Oi ethnic groups, evolving over thousands of years.

Must-Visit Destinations

Vinh Moc Tunnels
A monumental underground network, the Vinh Moc Tunnels stand as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Vinh Linh’s people during the fight for independence. This unique underground world served as both a living and battle station, completely isolated from the surface. It is a historic site that symbolizes patriotism, resilience, and ingenuity.

Quang Tri Ancient Citadel
Also known as the Quang Tri Citadel, this special national relic was once the administrative and military hub during the Nguyen Dynasty and later under French colonial rule. It gained worldwide recognition during the legendary 81-day battle of 1972, becoming a symbol of Vietnam’s heroic resistance.

Bru Van Kieu Community Tourism
In Hướng Viet Commune, Huong Hoa District, the Bru Van Kieu people have transformed the stunning Ta Puong Waterfall into a community tourism destination. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, witness traditional performances, and savor authentic mountain cuisine in this serene natural setting.

Cua Tung Beach
Located 30 km northeast of Dong Ha City, Cua Tung Beach in Vinh Linh District is a pristine slice of paradise. With its fresh air, serene atmosphere, and stunning natural scenery, it offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking unspoiled beauty.

Con Co Island
Situated 30 km from Cua Viet Port, Con Co Island is a natural marvel formed by ancient volcanic activity. Its basalt rock formations, coral-covered shores, and lush tropical forests make it a living museum of geological and ecological wonders. With over 70% of its area covered by a pristine three-tiered tropical forest, exploring Con Co’s diverse flora and fauna is an unmissable adventure.

Khe Sanh Town
Located in Huong Hoa District along the East-West Economic Corridor, Khe Sanh was a historic battlefield during the Vietnam War, known for its fierce conflicts. Today, it retains remnants like the Ta Con Airfield and Lao Bao Prison, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past. With its cool climate and scenic beauty, Khe Sanh is often referred to as the "Little Da Lat" of Quang Tri.

Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River
These historic landmarks lie on National Highway 1A, marking the geographical division between North and South Vietnam during the war. They stand as poignant reminders of a painful past, carrying the scars of more than 20 years of separation.

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
The DMZ, or Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (V-DMZ), along the Ben Hai River, was established under the 1954 Geneva Accords as a temporary military divide. Today, it serves as a powerful symbol of history, attracting visitors from around the world.

Culinary Delights

Quang Tri is renowned for its rustic yet flavorful dishes:

• Buffalo Meat with Troong Leaves: A fragrant and spicy combination of tender buffalo meat and wild forest leaves native to Quang Tri.
• Banh Khoai: Similar in appearance to southern Vietnam’s banh xeo, this crispy pancake is uniquely Quang Tri with its round shape and simple fillings of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.
• Chao Vạc Giường: Known locally as chao bot, this hearty dish features rice noodle strands cooked in a flavorful snakehead fish broth. While locals call it fish porridge, visitors often refer to it by its nickname, chao vạt giường (bed slat porridge).
• Stewed Corn: A simple yet unforgettable dish made by slowly simmering hand-picked sticky corn with green beans, sugar, salt, and sesame. This humble delicacy captures the essence of Quang Tri’s countryside cuisine.

Festivals

Quang Tri is a land of festivals, each reflecting its rich culture and history:

• Cu Festival: A traditional New Year celebration in Cam Pho Village, featuring games played with banana wood balls, symbolizing Heaven, Earth, and Humanity.
• La Vang Procession Festival: Held annually on August 15th, this grand Catholic festival commemorates the Virgin Mary’s apparition, blending faith and vibrant cultural traditions.
• Traditional Boat Racing Festival: Hosted every three years on the 4th and 5th days of the first lunar month, this thrilling event at Gia Do Village showcases the skill and teamwork of local boatmen.

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