Indonesian Journal of Geography
Vol 57, No 3 (2025): Indonesian Journal of Geography

New type of cave in the Tien Phuoc District, Quang Nam Province, Viet Nam

Nguyen, Giang Thi Truong (Unknown)
Xuan, Nam Nguyen (Unknown)
T, Hieu P. (Unknown)
Pham, Minh (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Nov 2025

Abstract

Cave systems in Vietnam typically develop in limestone terrains, which cover about 20% of the national territory and are concentrated mainly in the north. In contrast, Tien Phuoc District (Quang Nam Province) is located in central Vietnam, featuring a hilly topography composed primarily of metamorphic rocks, with no previously recorded limestone terrain. The recent discovery of "Bat Cave," a notable scenic site in this region, has revealed a new type of cave development. Through geological, geomorphological surveys, and petrology analysis, the study identifies that Bat Cave formed within lime-bearing metamorphic rocks. Surface features, such as karren landforms—typically associated with karst terrain—indicate significant chemical weathering due to rainwater. The cave walls and floor also show signs of fluvial dissolution. Additionally, tectonic activity, including faulting and uplift, appears to have influenced the cave's formation, interacting with exogenous processes to shape the current landscape. These findings enhance the understanding of cave formation in non-limestone terrains and provide scientific support for recognizing geological heritage in Central Vietnam. This contributes to the foundation for establishing a future geopark in the region.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijg

Publisher

Subject

Earth & Planetary Sciences

Description

Indonesian Journal of Geography ISSN 2354-9114 (online), ISSN 0024-9521 (print) is an international journal of Geography published by the Faculty of Geography, Universitas Gadjah Mada in collaboration with The Indonesian Geographers Association. Our scope of publications includes physical geography, ...