In previous years, butterfly season at Cuc Phuong National Park typically peaked from late April to June, coinciding with the April 30 - May 1 holiday, and drawing large numbers of visitors for sightseeing and photography.

This year, however, the season has arrived two to three weeks earlier. Since early April, tens of thousands of butterflies in a spectrum of colors have filled the skies and spread across the forest.

Each day, thousands of visitors pour into the park to wander through what many describe as a “sea” of butterflies. The deeper they venture into the forest, the more species they encounter, ranging in hues from yellow, white, orange, and red to blue and brown.

This is also the butterflies’ breeding season, when clusters gather densely along forest paths, fluttering continuously and creating a dreamlike landscape.

Their numbers vary with the weather. On sunny days, butterflies appear in greater abundance than during overcast conditions.

At this time of year, beyond the butterfly season, the forest’s giant wild taro plants have also become a major attraction, drawing visitors eager to admire and photograph them.

These taro plants, belonging to the same family as colocasia, grow to over two meters tall, with large green leaves shaped like umbrellas. Lining both sides of the forest trails, they have captivated visitors, particularly younger travelers, who are flocking to check in and take photos.

Phuong Thao, from Dong Quang ward in Thanh Hoa, shared: “I saw photos of these giant taro plants all over social media. They look stunning and almost magical in pictures, so I came here with friends to check in and experience the butterfly season at the same time.”

Do Hong Hai, head of the Environmental Education and Services Center at Cuc Phuong National Park, said that since early April, more than 36,000 visitors have come to explore, take photos, and experience both the butterfly season and the giant taro plants. Visitor numbers tend to rise even further on weekends.

According to Hai, during the day, thousands of butterflies fill the sky, while at night, fireflies illuminate the forest, turning it into what many describe as a “galaxy beneath the canopy.” The giant taro plants, meanwhile, continue to gain popularity and draw large crowds.

Nguyen Van Chinh, Director of Cuc Phuong National Park, shared a simple message: “I only hope that visitors come to the forest as thoughtful guests - not rushed, not noisy, and not trying to ‘own’ what belongs to nature. Walk gently, speak softly, and keep your heart open. The forest will tell its stories in its own way.”

Cuc Phuong National Park spans more than 22,000 hectares. Research indicates that it is home to over 300 species of butterflies.