About Kon Tum
Kon Tum is both a province and its capital city, located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, a region known for its cultural diversity and unspoiled landscapes. The area is home to numerous ethnic groups, including the Bahnar, Jarai, and Sedang, who have preserved their unique traditions and way of life. While parts of the province are used for plantations, such as coffee and rubber, much of the landscape remains wild, with dense forests, mountains, and rivers offering a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Historically, Kon Tum played a significant role during the Vietnam War due to its location along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Battles like the Battle of Dak To and the Battle of Kon Tum, were pivotal moments in the war, leaving a lasting mark on the area. Many former battlefields and military sites like Kon Tum Army Base, Charlie Hill and Rocket Ridge, are now overtaken by nature, with signs of the past fading into the lush surroundings.
The things to do in Kon Tum include exploring its rich cultural heritage, learning about its fascinating history, and discovering its natural beauty.
Is Kon Tum worth to visit?
Kon Tum’s remote location is both its biggest draw and its potential drawback. If you’re looking for a destination with fewer tourists and authentic experiences, it’s a fantastic choice. However, it’s not a place for those seeking vibrant nightlife or extensive tourist facilities. The things to do in Kon Tum revolve around scenic drives, visiting ethnic villages, and soaking in the highland atmosphere. For a richer experience, consider combining it with a larger Central Highlands itinerary.
Best time to visit Kon Tum
Kon Tum is situated in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, sharing a similar climate with destinations like Pleiku and Buon Ma Thuot. The best time to visit Kon Tum is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
During the rainy season, from May to October, heavy rains can make some rural roads challenging to navigate, but the landscapes become lush and green. While still possible to visit, this period is better suited for those comfortable with occasional travel delays and wet weather.
4. How to travel to Kon Tum
Kon Tum is located in the northern part of Vietnam’s Central Highlands, making it a remote destination that requires careful planning to reach. It is approximately 600 km (373 miles) and a 12-14 hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, and about 320 km (200 miles) and 8-9 hours from Da Nang in central Vietnam. Hanoi is significantly farther to the north, emphasizing the distance to this highland destination.
Kon Tum is best explored as part of a broader Central Highlands trip, which can be an alternative to Vietnam’s coastal route. Starting or ending in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang is recommended, but a full journey through the Central Highlands requires at least a week.
Flights to Kon Tum
Kon Tum does not have its own airport, but the nearest airport is in Pleiku, located about 45 km (28 miles) or a 1-hour drive away. Pleiku Airport offers regular flights to Hanoi (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes) and Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes). Taxis and private transfers are readily available at the airport to take you directly to Kon Tum.
Bus options
Although Kon Tum is a relatively small city, it is well-connected to major destinations thanks to its proximity to Pleiku, a larger transport hub. Many bus routes combine stops in both cities, ensuring sufficient passengers for regular services. Popular routes to Kon Tum include:
- Ho Chi Minh City to Kon Tum: 14 hours
- Da Nang to Kon Tum: 8–9 hours
- Nha Trang to Kon Tum: 7–8 hours
- Dalat to Kon Tum: 10–11 hours
- Buon Ma Thuot to Kon Tum: 4–5 hours
Most buses on these routes are sleeper buses, which are common for long-distance travel in Vietnam. For a more comfortable experience, consider booking a VIP sleeper bus, which offers more space and better amenities.
Going by tour
There are no group tours to Kon Tum, as the destination doesn’t attract enough tourists to sustain such services. Instead, private tours are the best way to explore the area. Two popular options include:
- Easy Rider tours: Easy Rider is a unique Vietnamese travel experience where you ride as a passenger on the back of a motorbike driven by a local guide. These guides often know the area’s hidden gems and can provide valuable cultural and historical insights. Easy Rider tours are immersive and perfect for those wanting to experience the Central Highlands authentically.
- Private car with driver: This is the most convenient and comfortable choice, especially if you want to visit multiple sights in Kon Tum but don’t want to ride a motorbike. While it can be more expensive for solo travelers, it’s ideal for those looking for flexibility and ease. Discuss your itinerary with the driver in advance to ensure they understand your preferences.
Learn more about renting a car with a driver in Vietnam.
Driving motorbike
For adventurous travelers, driving a motorbike yourself is an excellent way to explore Kon Tum and the surrounding Central Highlands. The roads in Kon Tum are relatively quiet, making it a safe and enjoyable option for confident riders. Kon Tum is also part of the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail, which runs along the borders of Laos and Cambodia. Combining Kon Tum with provinces like Gia Lai, Dak Lak, and Lam Dong creates an unforgettable motorbike adventure filled with stunning landscapes and cultural discoveries.
Kon Tum Travel tips
How long to stay here?
To explore the main highlights of Kon Tum, such as the ethnic villages, the wooden church, and the lush nature of Mang Den, you’ll need at least two full days. If you have more time, three or more days allow you to dive deeper into the region’s history, visit remote places like Chu Mon Ray National Park, or take day trips to nearby areas in the Central Highlands. For travelers planning a more comprehensive Central Highlands trip, Kon Tum makes an excellent stop.
What to prepare
While Kon Tum town is small, it has convenient stores, pharmacies, and ATMs. However, much of the province is remote, with small villages and vast landscapes. Here are some essentials to bring:
- Cash: For local restaurants, markets, and homestays, as many don’t accept cards, and ATMs may not be available outside the town.
- Good walking shoes: Essential if you plan to explore villages, hike, or visit natural sites.
- Mosquito repellent and sunscreen: These are often unavailable or limited outside the town, so it’s best to bring them from home.
Getting around Kon Tum
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Kon Tum town and are convenient for short trips within the city. However, they are not practical for exploring the wider region. Stick to reliable brands or ask your accommodation for recommendations.
- Car with driver: This option is ideal for sightseeing around Kon Tum. Unlike taxis, you pay a fixed price for your itinerary, and the driver waits at each stop. However, drivers are typically not guides—they often have limited English skills and may not understand the significance of certain sights to tourists.
- Driving motorbike or scooter: Renting a motorbike is a great way to explore the region’s quiet roads and stunning landscapes. Rentals are often available at hotels, homestays, or local shops. While police rarely check licenses, having a valid one is recommended for safety and insurance. Only consider this option if you have prior riding experience, as Kon Tum is not a place to learn.
Where to go next
From Kon Tum, there are several excellent destinations to continue your journey:
- Central Highlands: Head to nearby provinces like Dak Lak, Gia Lai, or Dalat to explore coffee plantations, waterfalls, and more ethnic villages.
- Coastal destinations: Travel east to enjoy the beaches of Quy Nhon or the scenic landscapes of Phu Yen.
- Hoi An or Nha Trang: Go north to the historic town of Hoi An or south to the lively coastal city of Nha Trang.
- Ho Chi Minh Trail: Follow the historic trail north along the Laos border for a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, with connections to Hoi An and other northern destinations.
- Flights: From Pleiku Airport, you can fly to major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to continue your journey.
Things to do in Kon Tum
Kon Tum offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences. From exploring ethnic communities to discovering colonial-era architecture and serene landscapes, the things to do in Kon Tum provide insight into Vietnam’s diverse heritage and untouched highlands.
1. Discover ethnic cultures
Kon Tum is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with distinct traditions, languages, and architectural styles. A must-see is the Kon K’lor Rong House, a towering communal house on stilts that serves as a cultural symbol for the Bahnar people. It plays a central role in their community gatherings and festivals.
For a deeper understanding of highland life, visit villages like Kon K’Tu Village, located along the Dak Bla River. Here, you can observe rural daily life, admire traditional stilt houses, and interact with locals. These visits offer a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s highland cultures, often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
2. Explore the nature of Mang Den
Located about 50 km from Kon Tum, Mang Den is a peaceful mountain retreat known for its cool climate, lush pine forests, and serene environment. While Mang Den is less developed than Dalat, it offers an equally beautiful escape without the crowds.
The area is famous for the Pa Sy Waterfall, a stunning cascade surrounded by dense greenery. Nearby hiking trails provide opportunities to explore the surrounding forests. Mang Den also features small lakes, organic farms, and ethnic villages, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers who want to explore a less commercialized side of Vietnam’s highlands.
3. Kon Tum Wooden Church
Built in 1913, the Kon Tum Wooden Church is a remarkable blend of Bahnar architecture and French missionary influences. Constructed entirely of wood, the church showcases intricate carvings and a design that reflects both local and colonial styles.
This church wasn’t just a place of worship—it was also a hub for spreading Christianity in the Central Highlands during the French colonial era. Today, it remains a functioning church and a cultural landmark. Visitors can admire its craftsmanship, colorful stained-glass windows, and unique design while learning about its role in the region’s history.
4. Kon Tum Bishop’s House
Located near the Wooden Church, the Bishop’s House of Kon Tum is a fascinating architectural gem that blends French colonial design with Bahnar influences. Built in 1935, this two-story wooden structure features a raised stilt foundation, an expansive veranda, and intricate carvings that showcase local craftsmanship.
The Bishop’s House remains in use today as the residence of local clergy. Visitors can also explore a small museum on the premises, which displays artifacts and photographs detailing the history of Christianity in the Central Highlands and its interaction with local ethnic communities. This site provides a deeper understanding of how religious and cultural elements have intertwined in the region over time.
5. Chu Mon Ray Nationalpark
Located about 30 km from Kon Tum, Chu Mon Ray National Park spans over 56,000 hectares and is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. The park is home to dense forests, rare plant species, and a diverse array of animals, including gibbons, civets, and a variety of bird species.
While much of the park remains undeveloped for tourism, guided tours can be arranged for specific areas. These treks offer the chance to experience the raw beauty of Vietnam’s Central Highlands, but certain remote zones may require special permits or local guides. The park is an ideal destination for those looking to explore pristine nature off the beaten path.
6. Ngoc Linh Berg
Standing at 2,598 meters, Ngoc Linh Mountain is the highest peak in the Central Highlands and holds cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities. It is also the natural habitat of the rare and valuable Ngoc Linh Ginseng, a medicinal plant highly regarded for its healing properties.
For experienced trekkers, the climb offers breathtaking views, dense forests, and encounters with unique flora and fauna. However, the remote location and challenging terrain make it essential to hire a local guide or join an organized tour. Ngoc Linh is not only a physical challenge but also a journey into the heart of the region’s untouched wilderness.
7. Abandoned Vietnam War Sites
Kon Tum played a key role during the Vietnam War, and remnants of its turbulent past can still be found in the surrounding areas. While most sites have been reclaimed by nature, a few notable locations remain:
- Charlie Hill: Once the scene of intense battles, this now-overgrown area offers little in terms of visible remains but holds significant historical value for those interested in war history.
- Rocket Ridge: A former strategic base that provides insight into the region’s wartime history, though like Charlie Hill, much of it has returned to nature.
- Dak To Airstrip (Phoenix Airfield): Located near the town of Dak To, this abandoned airstrip was a vital military hub. Today, the remnants of the airstrip serve as a haunting reminder of the war’s impact on the region.
These sites may require local guides for easier access, as they are often remote and lack clear signage.
8. Traditional Brick-Making Village
A short drive from Kon Tum, the brick-making village is an intriguing destination to observe traditional craftsmanship. Known for its handmade bricks, the village has preserved techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Visitors can witness the entire process, from shaping the clay to firing the bricks in large kilns. This is a great opportunity to learn about rural life and traditional industries that still thrive in the region. The village provides a unique cultural experience, offering insight into the skills and traditions that have shaped the local economy.
9. Plantations
The rural landscapes of Kon Tum are dotted with coffee and rubber plantations, which play a vital role in the local economy. A visit to these plantations offers a peaceful escape into the countryside while providing a closer look at the region’s agricultural practices.
Coffee plantations are particularly interesting for coffee lovers, where visitors can observe the process from harvesting to roasting. Some farms even offer freshly brewed local coffee. The rubber plantations, with their neat rows of trees, create a picturesque scene, especially during the latex collection season. Both provide an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Kon Tum’s farming communities.
10. Dak Bla River
The Dak Bla River flows gracefully through Kon Tum, offering picturesque views of the city and its surroundings. This river is a key feature of the region’s landscape and holds cultural significance for the local Bahnar communities.
A highlight is the Kon Klor Suspension Bridge, a vibrant orange structure that connects nearby villages. The bridge is not only functional but also an excellent spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset. From here, you can admire the river, traditional stilt houses, and the lush green scenery that defines Kon Tum’s charm.
Where to stay in Kon Tum
Kon Tum offers a range of unique accommodations, from local hotels to authentic ethnic homestays. While options are limited compared to larger cities, each provides an opportunity to experience the charm and culture of this region.
Kon Tum Town
Kon Tum town is a small, unassuming city that serves as a convenient base for exploring the province. While not particularly lively, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a handful of interesting sights both in and near the city. Most accommodations here are local hotels—sufficient for a night’s stay, though they lack the charm of other option.
Mang Den
Mang Den is steadily developing into a tourist destination, often compared to Dalat for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Thankfully, it remains far less crowded. Visitors can find a good mix of accommodations, including basic hotels, charming homestays, and even glamping options for a unique experience in nature.
Rural Kon Tum
Accommodations in the rural areas of Kon Tum province are extremely limited, reflecting the low number of travelers. While facilities may be basic, the stunning locations often make up for the simplicity, offering a peaceful escape into the province’s natural landscapes.
Ethnic Homestays
Ethnic homestays in Kon Tum are a highlight for adventurous travelers seeking a deeper cultural connection. Available in at least two villages, these traditional stilt-house stays provide more than just a place to sleep—they’re immersive cultural experiences. Guests can learn about local languages, participate in traditional dances, and gain insight into the daily life of the Bahnar or other ethnic groups. These homestays are truly one-of-a-kind and offer an enriching way to explore the region’s heritage.
Travel itinerary for Kon Tum
This 2-day travel itinerary for Kon Tum combines cultural exploration, scenic drives, and a visit to the serene Mang Den region. Perfect for experiencing the things to do in Kon Tum at a relaxed pace.
Day 1
- Start your day in Kon Tum town, visiting:
- The Wooden Church.
- The Bishop’s House, located nearby.
- Head to the Brick-Making Village, a short drive from the town.
- Visit Kon K’Tu Village along the Dak Bla River to experience Bahnar culture.
- Take a scenic drive towards Mang Den, passing through:
- Traditional villages and coffee plantations.
- The Mang Den Pass, offering breathtaking views.
- Arrive in Mang Den and stay overnight in a local hotel or guesthouse.
Day 2
- Spend the full day exploring Mang Den, a tranquil retreat known for its natural beauty:
- Visit Pa Sy Waterfall and other nearby falls.
- Discover ethnic villages and engage with local communities.
- Take short forest hikes to enjoy the cool mountain air.
- Relax by the lakes or explore the surrounding coffee and rubber plantations.
