About Pleiku
Pleiku, the capital of Gia Lai Province, is situated in Vietnam’s Central Highlands and is surrounded by lush landscapes of coffee plantations, lakes, and forests. The name “Pleiku” originates from the Jarai language, meaning “upper village,” and was first officially documented in 1905 during the French colonial period.
The city has historical significance, as it was strategically important during the Vietnam War, with the Pleiku Air Base and Camp Holloway playing key roles. The attack on Camp Holloway in 1965 marked a critical escalation in U.S. involvement in the conflict.
While Pleiku was heavily bombed during the war, it was rebuilt with assistance from the USSR, resulting in its current Soviet-style architecture. Today, the city is not a major tourist destination but serves as a gateway to the rural landscapes of Gia Lai and the Central Highlands. Known for its fertile land and coffee production, Pleiku offers a unique glimpse into a modern Vietnamese city largely untouched by tourism, with a focus on its surrounding natural beauty and cultural significance.
Is Pleiku worth to visit?
Pleiku itself has limited attractions and is not particularly scenic, with much of its architecture reflecting its Soviet-era reconstruction. The city is also quite remote, making it less accessible for casual travelers. However, Pleiku’s value lies in its role as a base for exploring the rural landscapes of Gia Lai and the Central Highlands. It offers an authentic Vietnamese urban experience, free from the influence of mass tourism. If you’re embarking on a broader journey through the Central Highlands, Pleiku can be a practical and culturally enriching stop along the way.
Best time to visit Pleiku
Pleiku is located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, a region with weather patterns similar to nearby destinations like Buon Ma Thuot. The best time to visit Pleiku is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, with the best months being December to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
During the rainy season, from May to October, the area experiences heavy rains that can make travel to rural attractions more challenging. However, this period brings lush greenery to the surrounding landscapes, which can appeal to nature enthusiasts. The region’s tropical climate can also bring cooler nights, especially in winter, adding a refreshing aspect to the experience.
How to travel to Pleiku
Pleiku is located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands and serves as a gateway to the region’s stunning rural landscapes. It is well-connected by road and air, with good infrastructure linking it to major cities and nearby destinations. Pleiku is approximately 540 km (335 miles) or about a 10-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The nearest coastal city is Quy Nhon, located 180 km (112 miles) away, about a 4-hour drive. To the north, Kon Tum is a short ride of 50 km (31 miles), while heading south to Buon Ma Thuot covers 190 km (118 miles) in around 5 hours.
Flights to Pleiku
Pleiku’s airport, located on the outskirts of the city, is a small yet efficient facility offering daily flights to Hanoi (1.5 hours) and Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour). It also serves as the primary airport for travelers heading to Kon Tum. The airport is conveniently located just a short drive from the city center, with taxis and ride-hailing services readily available upon arrival.
For more information about booking domestic flights in Vietnam, visit Domestic Flights in Vietnam.
Bus options
Pleiku is well-connected by bus, particularly with cities to the south. For long-distance routes, sleeper buses are highly recommended as they allow for overnight travel, saving both time and accommodation costs. For shorter routes, limousine vans are a convenient option for daytime travel.
- Ho Chi Minh City – Pleiku: ~10 hours
- Quy Nhon – Pleiku: ~4 hours
- Buon Ma Thuot – Pleiku: ~5 hours
- Da Nang – Pleiku: ~12 hours
For more information about bus travel and bookings, visit Bus Travel in Vietnam.
Private car with driver
Hiring a private car with a driver is a more expensive option, but it offers flexibility and convenience, particularly for shorter routes such as Kon Tum – Pleiku or sightseeing-heavy trips like Pleiku to Buon Ma Thuot. Unlike taxis, private cars charge a fixed price for the trip or a customized itinerary over multiple days. This option is ideal for travelers looking to explore rural attractions along the way or travel in comfort.
For details on car rentals, check Car Rental with Driver in Vietnam.
Driving motorbike
For adventurous travelers, riding a motorbike to Pleiku can be a thrilling option. However, driving in Vietnam requires experience due to road conditions and traffic patterns. Ensure you have a valid license and are comfortable navigating rural and urban routes. Motorbike travel offers the freedom to explore hidden gems at your own pace but comes with increased risks.
Easy Rider tours
Easy Riders are local guides who offer motorbike tours tailored to your preferences. These guides know the best routes and attractions, making them a popular choice for exploring the Central Highlands. Easy Rider tours can include stops at Pleiku’s sights or incorporate overnight stays in the city as part of a broader journey. Customizable itineraries make it easy to combine Pleiku with other destinations, ensuring a rich and immersive travel experience.
Getting around Pleiku
Taxi
Taxis and Grab services are available within Pleiku, especially in the city center and near the airport. If you’re staying a bit outside the city, finding a Grab may be challenging, and you may need to call for a taxi. Taxis are ideal for short, point-to-point trips within the city but are not recommended for longer journeys or sightseeing.
Car with driver
For longer trips or exploring multiple sights outside the city, renting a car with a driver is the best choice. Unlike taxis, a car with a driver provides a fixed price for your itinerary and the convenience of having the driver wait for you at each destination. This option is flexible and perfect for those who prefer a hassle-free experience while visiting Pleiku’s surrounding areas.
Driving motorbike or scooter
Although Pleiku is not a major tourist destination, renting a scooter is relatively easy. Several rental shops are available, and most accommodations can assist in arranging one for you. Pleiku’s roads are less chaotic compared to larger cities, and traffic becomes even quieter as you head out of town. However, proper driving experience is still essential, as even quiet roads in Vietnam can have their challenges
Sights in Pleiku
While Pleiku may not be the most popular tourist destination in Vietnam, it does offer a few noteworthy sights that give visitors a glimpse into the city’s character and the surrounding highlands. Between enjoying the laid-back city atmosphere, you can explore these local highlights that showcase Pleiku’s natural beauty and cultural significance.
1. Minh Thanh Pagoda
Minh Thanh Pagoda stands out as one of the most impressive landmarks in Pleiku, showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese and Chinese architecture. Its towering pagoda, ornate details, and tranquil gardens make it a serene escape from the city. Located just a short distance from the center, it is accessible by motorbike or taxi. While the complex is relatively small, the peaceful atmosphere and intricate design make it a must-visit for those seeking cultural and spiritual experiences.
2. Great Unity Square
Situated in the heart of Pleiku, Great Unity Square is a large public space dominated by a statue of Ho Chi Minh. While the square is quiet during the day, it transforms in the evening into a lively hub where locals gather to relax, jog, and enjoy street food. Vendors sell snacks, balloons, and toys, creating a family-friendly environment. The square is also lined with coffee shops, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Pleiku’s famous coffee culture while soaking in the local vibe.
3. Bien Ho Lake (Sea Lake)
Bien Ho Lake, located on the outskirts of Pleiku, is a volcanic crater lake and one of the city’s most beloved natural attractions. For a small entrance fee, you can access a viewpoint on a narrow peninsula that offers stunning views of the calm, blue waters. The lake is surrounded by pine forests and features walking paths that are ideal for a leisurely stroll. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot to escape the urban buzz and connect with nature.
4. Tien Son Lake
Connected to the famous Bien Ho Lake, Tien Son Lake is a hidden gem with far fewer tourists. Surrounded by mountains, a volcano, and ethnic villages, it offers a picturesque and serene escape. Driving around the lake provides a glimpse of rural life, with buffalo often crossing the road and locals working in nearby coffee and tea plantations. Just a short ride from Pleiku, it feels like stepping into a different world.
5. Bien Ho Tea Fields
The Bien Ho Tea Fields are not only historic but also visually stunning, especially during the harvest season. Established over a century ago by the French, these are some of the oldest tea plantations in Gia Lai. Many ethnic Bahnar people work here, maintaining a deep cultural connection to the land. Visitors, especially domestic tourists, often come for photography, drawn by the lush green fields and traditional tea-picking scenes.
6. Buu Minh Pagoda
Located near Tien Son Lake and the tea fields, Buu Minh Pagoda is a charming Buddhist temple with a unique architectural blend. Its roof design resembles the communal houses of the Central Highlands, infused with northern, central, and Japanese influences. The pagoda’s 47-meter tower and peaceful courtyard make it a quiet yet culturally significant spot. It is one of the earliest Buddhist pagodas built in Gia Lai and pairs beautifully with visits to the nearby natural attractions.
7. Chu Dang Ya Volcano
Visible from Tien Son Lake, Chu Dang Ya Volcano may not actual look like a volcano at first sight, but it’s a worthwhile visit. The drive along the lake and ethnic villages is scenic, and hiking to the top takes just 30 minutes. From the summit, you’ll see the crater that defines its volcanic origin and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Tien Son Lake. The fertile soil here is used by local ethnic communities for farming, adding to the cultural charm of the site.
8. Dien Hong Park
Dien Hong Park is not the most picturesque park, but it offers an authentic glimpse into local life in Pleiku. At its center is a lake, surrounded with walking paths, a mix of abandoned amusement rides and an unusual crocodile pool in a lowered area—safe but intriguing to observe. The park also has a few coffee shops where you can relax after a stroll. It’s a casual spot to visit if you have extra time in the city.
9. Pleiku Night Market
The Pleiku Night Market, which transitions from a daytime market for groceries, becomes a bustling hub of street food and lively activity in the evening. While there’s not much else to do at night in Pleiku, this market is worth a visit for its vibrant atmosphere. It’s also one of the few markets in Vietnam that stays open well into the night and early morning, as it doubles as a wholesale hub. A quick visit can give you a taste of Pleiku’s local nightlife.
10. Dak Doa Pink Grass Hill
Dak Doa Pink Grass Hill is a seasonal highlight located just outside Pleiku. During the dry season, typically from November to early December, the hill is blanketed in a stunning pink grass, creating a surreal and photogenic landscape. The hill is a favorite among Vietnamese travelers for photoshoots, including wedding pictures. While there isn’t much else to do here, it’s a unique spot to visit if you’re in Pleiku during the short season when the pink grass is at its peak.
11. Pleiku Stadium
Home to the Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club, Pleiku Stadium offers a truly local experience for football enthusiasts or curious travelers. While the stadium itself is far from impressive, the atmosphere during a match is lively and uniquely Vietnamese. Matches are rare, with only about 14 games a year, so check the schedule online and ask your accommodation to help secure tickets if one coincides with your visit. Expect to draw attention as a foreign visitor—this is as local as it gets.
Things to Do Around Pleiku
While Pleiku itself offers limited attractions, its real appeal lies in serving as a base to explore the stunning surroundings. Here are some of the absolute highlights you shouldn’t miss. For a complete guide to the region, visit our best things to do in Gia Lai.
Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve
Explore one of Vietnam’s most pristine natural reserves and trek through the dense jungle to reach the stunning K50 Waterfall, a breathtaking sight nestled in the wilderness.
Visit ethnic villages of the Gia Rai & Ba Na
Experience the unique culture of the Gia Rai and Ba Na communities in their traditional stilt houses, and learn about their customs, crafts, and way of life in the Central Highlands.
Phu Cuong Waterfall
Located in a serene area surrounded by lush greenery, this 45-meter-high waterfall is a must-visit for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Where to stay in Pleiku
Pleiku offers a range of accommodations suitable for different preferences, from city conveniences to rural retreats. Here’s what to expect:
City center
Most accommodations are concentrated in the city center, making it the most convenient option for travelers. Staying here puts you close to restaurants, shops, the night market, and key sights like Great Unity Square and Minh Thanh Pagoda. It’s also near the bus station, which is ideal for those planning onward travel or day trips.
Outskirts and Rural Stays
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the outskirts of Pleiku provide rural farm stays and accommodations near Tien Son Lake. These options offer a peaceful setting closer to nature and rural life, but they are farther from the city’s conveniences, such as restaurants and shops. Perfect for travelers wanting a deeper connection to Gia Lai’s natural charm.
