Chư Mom Ray National Park

Chư Mom Ray Overview

Chư Mom Ray National Park, located in the Tây Nguyên (Central Highlands) region of Vietnam, is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. Its name is derived from the local language of the indigenous ethnic groups, reflecting their deep connection to the area.

Spanning approximately 356 square miles (920 square kilometers), the park is situated in Kon Tum Province, near the borders of Cambodia and Laos, making it part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. It holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s only national park situated at the convergence of three countries, adding to its ecological and cultural significance.

The terrain of Chư Mom Ray is characterized by rolling hills, rugged mountains, and lush valleys, with the park’s highest peak, Chư Mom Ray Mountain, towering at 5,500 feet (1,676 meters) above sea level. This diverse landscape is further enriched by dense tropical forests, including broadleaf evergreen and semi-deciduous forests.

Rivers such as the Sa Thay and Dak Bla weave through the park, creating serene waterways and contributing to the region’s lush vegetation. During the rainy season, numerous waterfalls cascade through the park, enhancing its scenic allure. Orchids, ferns, and various hardwood tree species dominate the forest floor, while bamboo groves add variety to the vegetation.

Chư Mom Ray is a haven for wildlife, boasting an impressive array of species. Among the mammals, visitors might spot the rare Indochinese tiger, Asian elephant, gaur (a large wild ox), or the elusive douc langur. The park is also home to pangolins, sun bears, and a variety of small carnivores such as civets and weasels.

Birdwatchers will be enthralled by the park’s avian diversity, which includes the great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and the endangered green peafowl. The park’s wetlands and riverine areas attract a host of migratory birds and amphibians, contributing to its reputation as a biodiversity hotspot.

Visitors to Chư Mom Ray often explore its pristine wilderness through guided trekking tours, which allow for an immersive experience in the park’s natural beauty. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and cultural exchanges with local ethnic communities, such as the Jarai and Bahnar people, who live in harmony with the environment. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the park’s rugged trails are ideal for mountain biking and off-road exploration.

Conservation efforts at Chư Mom Ray National Park are a critical part of its management. Despite its protected status, the park faces challenges such as illegal logging, poaching, and encroachment from agricultural activities. However, collaborative efforts involving local communities, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies have seen successes in habitat restoration and anti-poaching patrols. The integration of eco-tourism initiatives also helps raise awareness and funding for conservation programs.

Park Map

Chư Mom Ray National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Chư Mom Ray National Park, located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity. The park is home to an array of fascinating species, including mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, making it a significant area for conservation in the region. Below are some of the more popular species found in Chư Mom Ray National Park:

Asian Elephant
The Asian elephant is a majestic and intelligent species that roams the park’s dense forests. Known for their smaller ears compared to African elephants, they play a critical role in maintaining the ecosystem by spreading seeds and creating clearings.

Indochinese Tiger
An elusive predator, the Indochinese tiger is a symbol of wilderness in the park. With its striking orange and black stripes, this tiger is both a top predator and a crucial species for maintaining ecological balance.

Sun Bear
The smallest bear species in the world, the sun bear has a distinctive crescent-shaped marking on its chest. They are excellent climbers, often found foraging for honey, insects, and fruits in the treetops.

Gaur
Also known as the Indian bison, this massive wild bovine is characterized by its muscular build and large horns. Gaurs are herbivorous and typically graze in the park’s grasslands.

Indochinese Leopard
This adaptable and secretive big cat is found in the forested areas of Chư Mom Ray. Its striking spotted coat provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat.

Banteng
A species of wild cattle, the banteng is easily recognized by its reddish-brown coat and white stockings. These animals are vital to the park’s ecosystem, serving as prey for large carnivores like tigers.

Malayan Porcupine
Covered in sharp quills, the Malayan porcupine is a nocturnal rodent found in the park. It uses its quills as a defense mechanism against predators.

Slow Loris
This small, nocturnal primate has large, round eyes adapted for seeing in low light. It feeds on insects, fruit, and tree sap and is known for its stealthy movements.

King Cobra
The king cobra is the world’s longest venomous snake and can be found in the park’s forested areas. Known for its impressive size and hooded display, it primarily preys on other snakes.

Giant Asian River Frog
This large amphibian is often seen near water bodies in the park. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.

Birds

Chư Mom Ray National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich diversity of avian species. Below are some of the more popular bird species found in the park:

Green Peafowl
A striking bird with iridescent green and blue plumage, the green peafowl is a ground-dwelling species that thrives in the park’s open forests and grasslands.

Crested Serpent Eagle
This medium-sized raptor is known for its sharp vision and distinctive call. It preys on snakes and other small animals in the forest.

Great Hornbill
A large and charismatic bird, the great hornbill has a distinctive casque on its beak. It plays a vital role in seed dispersal in the park.

Red Junglefowl
The wild ancestor of domestic chickens, the red junglefowl is commonly seen in the park. It is recognized by its bright red comb and iridescent feathers.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
This smaller hornbill species has striking black-and-white plumage and is often found in forested areas, feeding on fruits and small animals.

White-rumped Shama
Known for its melodious song, the white-rumped shama is a small, shy bird often spotted in dense undergrowth.

Blue-winged Pitta
This colorful bird, with its vibrant blue and green plumage, migrates to the park during specific seasons and is often found near water bodies.

Rufous Treepie
The rufous treepie is a medium-sized bird with a long tail and striking rust-colored body. It is known for its loud calls and social behavior.

Black Eagle
This large raptor has striking black plumage and is often seen soaring over the forest canopy, searching for prey.

Scarlet Minivet
The scarlet minivet is a brightly colored bird with fiery red and black plumage in males and yellow and black in females. They are often spotted in pairs or small flocks.