The ancient apricot forest contains over 300 trees within the pristine forest area managed by the Quang Tri Provincial Special-use Forest Management Board. The largest apricot trees have a trunk diameter of about 60cm and are hundreds of years old, scattered across several hectares. The tree trunks are rough, with moss-covered bark, and some trees have winding shapes while others stand straight.
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The area surrounding Non Mai-Mai Linh Mountain. |
In addition, there are many young apricot trees with diameters under 10cm, thriving beneath the forest canopy at an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level. The journey to reach the apricot forest involves crossing streams and climbing mountains, making it a challenging adventure. The trip from departure to the forest and back can be completed in one day.
Although the ancient apricot forest is nearing the end of its blooming season, it still retains its wild beauty, with vibrant yellow flowers and fresh green shoots, creating a picturesque scene amidst the vast wilderness.
According to Truong Quang Trung, the forest was discovered a few years ago, but its existence was not previously made public. To promote economic, social, and tourism development, the official announcement now faces challenges in preserving the forest. Therefore, Trung urged local authorities to work closely with the Quang Tri Provincial Special-use Forest Management Board to ensure the safety and preservation of the ancient apricot forest.
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The apricot forest is filled with vibrant yellow colours. |
Cultural researcher Le Duc Tho, Deputy Director of the Quang Tri Provincial Cultural Heritage Management and Museum Centre, stated that the ancient apricot forest is located within the Non Mai-Song Han scenic area. Non Mai Mountain (Mai Linh Mountain) is situated on the right bank of the upper reaches of the Thach Han River, near the Tran Cave and Chan Cave.
“Non Mai Mountain, along with the Thach Han River, is the main spiritual line of the entire Quang Tri region, symbolising the land, culture, and vitality of the area. The existence of the ancient apricot forest makes this scenic spot even more unique, something rarely found elsewhere,” said Le Duc Tho.
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The Quang Tri Provincial Special-use Forest Management Board traverses streams and mountains to reach the ancient apricot forest. |
This mountain and river pair, symbolising the culture of the Vietnamese people, was formally recognised centuries ago when Quang Tri’s political and administrative centre was established on the banks of the Thach Han River.
