Gia Lai is a province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, bordering Cambodia to the south and Laos to the west. It is a mountainous region with lush forests, waterfalls, and rivers, and is home to a variety of ethnic minority groups, including the Gia Rai, Ba Na, and Ede.
Location
Gia Lai is located about 600 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City and 500 kilometers south of Hanoi. It can be reached by bus, train, or plane. The Pleiku Airport is located about 7 kilometers from the city center.
Transportation
There are a number of ways to get to Kon Tum from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh. You can take a flight 1h30m, bus 12 hours, or train 16 hours from Ho Chi Minh. From Hanoi, you can have a 2 hours flight or 20 hours bus.
Once in Gia Lai, you can get around by taxi, motorbike, or bicycle. There are also a number of tour operators that offer day trips to the province’s most popular attractions.
Weather
Gia Lai has a mild climate with two main seasons: the rainy season from May to October and the dry season from November to April. The average temperature in Gia Lai is around 25 degrees Celsius.
Top destinations to explore
1. Biển Hồ (Bien Ho)
Northwest of Pleiku City is a freshwater lake called Bien Ho, also referred to as Ea Nueng Lake. This national scenery is particularly alluring to tourists because of the numerous legends and thrilling tales that surround this lake.
Bien Ho is a natural wonder, formed by the collapse of a volcanic crater millions of years ago. The lake’s waters are fed by rainwater and underground springs, and its depth varies from 30 to 50 meters. The lake’s clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and forests, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
2. Hồ Thác Bà (Thac Ba Lake)
Thac Ba Lake, also known as Ho Thac Ba, is a man-made reservoir created by the construction of the Thac Ba Hydropower Plant in the 1960s. Over the years, the lake has become a beloved destination for its breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere. The lake’s vast expanse of shimmering water, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and verdant hills, creates a picturesque panorama that soothes the soul.
Thac Ba Lake is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The lake’s tranquil waters are home to a diverse array of fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding forests are teeming with wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and birds, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
3.Vườn Quốc gia Kon Ka Kinh (Kon Ka Kinh National Park)
Nestled amidst the verdant hills and lush forests of Gia Lai Province in Vietnam’s Central Highlands lies a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural splendor – Kon Ka Kinh National Park. This pristine park, spanning over 42,000 hectares, is home to a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes, and a captivating cultural heritage. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of this enchanting wilderness, where nature’s wonders and cultural treasures await.
Kon Ka Kinh National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting an impressive array of flora and fauna. The park’s forests are home to over 1,200 plant species, including rare and endangered orchids, ferns, and trees. The park’s rich fauna includes over 600 animal species, ranging from majestic primates like the gray-shanked langur and the red-cheeked gibbon to elusive creatures like the Annamese silver pheasant and the Muntjac deer.
4.Đỉnh Hàm Rồng (Ham Rong Peak)
This dormant volcano, with its distinctive jagged peak resembling a dragon’s jaw, offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural heritage. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey to the top of Ham Rong Peak, where breathtaking panoramic views, hidden trails, and intriguing remnants of the past await.
Ham Rong Peak holds a significant place in Gia Lai’s history. During the Vietnam War, the peak served as a strategic military base for both the North Vietnamese Army and the Viet Cong. The peak’s strategic position and surrounding terrain made it a crucial stronghold, leading to fierce battles and enduring tales of bravery.
5. Nhà máy thủy điện Yaly (Yaly Hydroelectric Plant)
The Yaly Hydroelectric Plant, completed in 2009, stands as a beacon of progress in Vietnam’s energy sector. With an installed capacity of 720 MW, the plant generates clean and renewable electricity, significantly contributing to the country’s energy needs. This shift from fossil fuels to hydropower marks a crucial step towards a more sustainable future for Vietnam.
The construction of the Yaly Hydroelectric Plant was a remarkable feat of engineering, requiring meticulous planning, innovative techniques, and unwavering dedication. The project involved building a 630-meter-long dam, creating a vast reservoir, and constructing a complex network of tunnels, pipelines, and powerhouses. The sheer scale and complexity of the project underscore the expertise and determination of the engineers and construction workers who brought it to life.
Food
Cơm Lam (Sticky Rice cooked in bamboo shoots): It’s the most popular dish in Gia Lai. To make this, all you have to do is place aromatic rice in a fresh bamboo tube, seal one end of the tube, pour water into the tube, close the tube with dong leaves or forest banana leaves, place the tube over a burning fire, and wait for the rice to cook. This dish is often served with the local grilled chicken.
Bún Cua Thối (Fermented Crab Rice Noodles): Field crab, rice noodles, pork, bamboo shoots, crispy pork skin, shrimp puff pastry, spices, chili, and salted crab are among the ingredients. Rice noodles are consumed with salad, bananas, and bean sprouts. Because of the distinctively potent flavor of pure salted crab, fermented crab rice noodles are quite discerning.
Gỏi đu đủ gan bò (Beef Liver Papaya Salad): The primary processing components are beef liver and papaya. Select ripe fruit, cut in half, peel, and grate into small pieces. Soak in cool water with salt and lemon juice. Beef liver should be thinly sliced, washed in salt water and vinegar, marinated in spices for a few hours to absorb the flavors, and then stir-fried until done.
Accommodation
– Hagl Hotel Gia Lai: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Pleiku City, the capital of Gia Lai Province.
– Hotel Hoang Anh Gia Lai – Pleiku: This 4-star hotel is also located in Pleiku City
– Gia Lai Pleiku Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located in a convenient location in Pleiku City
– Ngon Avatar Luxury Boutique Hotel: This 3-star boutique hotel is located in the heart of Pleiku City
Gia Lai is a beautiful and unspoiled province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It is a great place to visit for those who are looking for a unique and authentic Vietnamese experience. With its stunning scenery, delicious food, and rich culture, Gia Lai has something to offer everyone. If you plan to visit this beautiful place, don’t forget to apply for a Visa. With the easy and fast Visa procedures, you can travel to Vietnam at any time!