Visitors to Hoi An, an UNESCO World Heritage site, often visit Cu Lao Cham (Cham Islands), an archipelago off the coast of this city in Quang Nam Province.

Centuries old: the Hai Tang Pagoda on the Cham Islands. VNS File Photo.

Covering a total area of 15km², the Cham Island is a cluster of 8 islands of different sizes with picturesque landscapes, namely Hon Lao, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, Hon Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon La, Hon Tai and Hon Ong.

Recognised as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2009, the archipelago has many rare and valuable flora and fauna species and historic sites associated with the development in the past of the port city of Hoi An.

After arriving on the Cham Islands, nature enthusiasts should explore the largest islet, Hon Lao (Lao Islet), home to more than 3,000 residents, who earn a living mostly from catching fish and catering to tourists. 

A prominent venue on the island is the Hai Tang Pagoda, which was built 250 years ago.

Visitors can participate in a number of tours in the Cham Islands such as discovering the systems of caves, springs and rocks; snorkeling and watching coral and colorful fish in Bai Bac and Hon Dai; boat rowing; and visiting the Huong fishing village or swimming.

(Source: VNS/ DA NANG Today)