How Tall Is the Thousand-Year-Old Cho Tree in Cuc Phuong? Discovering Vietnam's Largest Ancient Tree

The thousand-year-old Cho tree in Cuc Phuong belongs to the species Parashorea chinensis, a large timber tree within the Dipterocarpaceae family. It is indigenous to the lowland tropical rainforests of Vietnam and parts of Southeast Asia, and is listed in the Red Data Book of Vietnam due to threats of extinction stemming from overexploitation for timber and habitat loss.

At Cuc Phuong National Park—Vietnam's first primeval forest reserve established in 1962—this Cho tree stands out as the "soul" of the ancient woods. In addition to being a monumental ancient tree, it anchors a diverse ecosystem sheltering hundreds of rare plant and animal species, from black-shanked douc langurs to rare wild orchids. If you are searching for Vietnam's largest ancient tree, this thousand-year-old Cho tree is an undisputed sovereign that should not be missed.

The thousand-year-old Cho tree belongs to the species Terminalia myriocarpa (commonly recognized as Cho chi or Cho xanh). It is a typical giant canopy species of the tropical monsoon rainforest, commonly growing at moderate elevations within primary limestone forests such as Cuc Phuong.

Key identifying characteristics:

• A straight, robust trunk, with its surface draped in moss and intertwining lianas over the centuries.
• An expansive canopy casting immense shade across the surrounding ecosystem.
• Seeds and fruits that provide vital food sources for numerous forest wildlife species.

The tree is not merely a giant in physical dimensions, but also a living chronicler of primeval forest history, persevering through centuries of climatic shifts and anthropogenic impacts.

The saga of the thousand-year-old Cho tree in Cuc Phuong is intimately intertwined with the nation's history. Germinating around the 11th century—during the flourishing era of the Ly Dynasty—the tree bore witness to the rise of the Tran and Le dynasties, endured wars of resistance against foreign invaders, and saw the designation of Cuc Phuong's primeval forest as a strategic sanctuary during the resistance war against America.

By the 20th century, the tree had evolved into an iconic symbol of Cuc Phuong National Park, admired by international scientists and travelers alike. However, beginning in 2017, signs of decline emerged: withered branches, decaying wood, and peeling bark caused by natural senescence, termite infestations, and human impacts (such as carvings on the trunk). In 2018, the tree officially perished, yet its gradual transition endured until 2023, leaving behind a hollowed trunk that still stands proudly amid the jungle.

A journey to visit the thousand-year-old Cho tree is now a pilgrimage into the past, offering an opportunity to admire a majestic and solemn witness of history.

Ideal Time to Visit

• Dry Season (December to May): The prime period for exploration. The weather is cool and dry, trails are firm and non-slippery, providing ideal conditions for jungle trekking.
• Special Experience: Do not miss the butterfly season (late April to May), when millions of winged creatures fill the canopy, transforming Cuc Phuong into a fairytale realm.

Trekking Route to the Cho Tree

• Route: The most popular trek commences at the central Bong area. This circular loop measures approximately 6 - 7 km and requires around 3 hours to complete.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate, suitable for most travelers with fair physical stamina.
• Highlights Along the Way: Alongside the Cho tree, you will have the chance to admire the colossal Bam Bam vine (giant Entada vine) and marvel at the geological splendors of Son Cung Cave.

The thousand-year-old Cho tree in Cuc Phuong, with its record-setting height of 45 - 50 meters, fulfilled its millennial historical mission around 2018. Even though it now remains a colossal, hollowed wooden skeleton, its proud, unwavering stance makes it not only a poignant monument to nature's supreme power, but also a living memorial. This striking image serves as a profound and urgent reminder of the fragility of natural heritage, inspiring every traveler to foster conservation awareness so that the legend of the Cho tree remains an eternal source of inspiration for Cuc Phuong's ancient wilderness.