Kon Tum

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Adventurous hiker enjoying a mesmerizing waterfall in Kon Tum, Vietnam.
Tường Chopper, Pexels

Kon Tum, located in Vietnam's Northern Central Highlands, offers a unique blend of wild natural landscapes and rich indigenous cultures. It is a destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from more crowded tourist areas, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in local traditions and explore pristine environments.

While Kon Tum's nightlife is generally low-key, it is possible to find relaxed bars for socializing with other travelers. Opportunities for social interaction primarily arise from staying in community-based tourism villages like Kon K'tu or Kon K'lor, where visitors can engage with local ethnic minority communities, participate in cultural festivals, and experience their daily life and traditions, fostering genuine connection with the local people.

Top 5 Things to do in Kon Tum

Visiting Kon Tum involves immersing oneself in the rich indigenous cultures and exploring the serene natural landscapes of the Central Highlands.

1. Explore Kon Tum Wooden Church (Immaculate Conception Cathedral)

Standing as a blend of Roman and Ba Na stilt house architecture, this entirely wooden church, built in 1913, showcases remarkable craftsmanship. Within its grounds, visitors can explore facilities dedicated to ethnic and religious items, a communal house, and even an orphanage, providing a deeper understanding of the local community and its history. The church's rustic charm is particularly striking, especially when pea flowers are in bloom along its entrance.

Cost: Free admission.

Transport: The church is centrally located in Kon Tum City, making it easily accessible by walking from most accommodations. Alternatively, local taxis are available, with rides typically costing around 45,000-75,000 VND within the city center.

2. Visit Kon Klor Communal House

The Kon Klor Communal House, or Nha Rong, is a prominent traditional gathering place for the Bahnar people. This large, elongated structure, built on stilts with a distinctive thatched roof and intricately carved wooden pillars, serves as the village's heart for important meetings, ceremonies, and festivals. Its architecture offers a direct insight into the communal living style and cultural heritage of the Central Highlands ethnic groups.

Cost: Entry is typically free. Any costs would be associated with specific cultural performances or tours if arranged.

Transport: Located approximately 3 kilometers from Kon Tum City center, it is a short taxi ride, costing around 45,000-60,000 VND. Motorbike rentals are also an option for self-exploration.

3. Immerse in Kon K'tu Village Life

Stepping into Kon K'tu village, a traditional Ba Na ethnic village, provides an authentic glimpse into local life away from bustling tourist routes. Visitors can observe traditional mud houses, a communal house, and a village church. Opportunities exist to witness traditional handicrafts, such as brocade weaving, and engage with the hospitable Ba Na people, gaining a genuine connection to their daily customs and traditions. You might also see locals transporting goods on the Dak Bla River using rafts made from tires.

Cost: Village entry is free. Homestay experiences and participation in specific cultural activities would incur varying costs, which can be inquired about locally.

Transport: Kon K'tu is about 5 kilometers southeast of Kon Tum City center, accessible by taxi or rented motorbike, with a taxi ride costing approximately 75,000-90,000 VND. The journey often includes crossing the scenic Kon Klor suspension bridge.

4. Experience Dak Bla River and Kon Klor Suspension Bridge

The Dak Bla River, unique for flowing east to west, offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Kon Tum. Walking across the Kon Klor Suspension Bridge provides panoramic views of the river, surrounding rice fields, and distant countryside. Boat trips on the river are available, allowing for a peaceful perspective of the landscapes and local riverside life. In spring, visitors might witness traditional canoe races.

Cost: Crossing the Kon Klor Suspension Bridge is free. Boat trips or rafting activities on the Dak Bla River would have a cost, which varies depending on the tour provider and duration.

Transport: Both the Dak Bla River and the Kon Klor Suspension Bridge are close to Kon Tum City center, easily reachable by walking, motorbike, or a short taxi ride.

5. Discover Mang Den Ecotourism Area and Pa Sy Waterfall

Known as the 'Second Da Lat', Mang Den offers a refreshing escape with its cool climate, dense pine forests, and rich biodiversity. Trekking through the lush landscapes leads to hidden gems like Pa Sy Waterfall, where the powerful cascades create a misty, poetic atmosphere. This area is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventurous outdoor activities amidst pristine environments. Nearby, the Vi Rơ Ngheo community-based tourism village provides a chance to explore untouched nature and discover native orchids.

Cost: Admission to Kon Plong Kon Ka Kinh National Park, which Mang Den is part of, costs approximately 40,000 VND. Costs for guided treks or specific tours within the ecotourism area vary.

Transport: Mang Den is approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Kon Tum City, requiring a journey of about 1.5 hours by car or motorbike. Buses are available to Mang Den, with prices typically ranging from 120,000-240,000 VND. Taxis or private car hires are also options for direct travel.

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