Kon Tum is a province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It is bordered by Laos to the west and Cambodia to the south. Kon Tum is a mountainous region with lush forests, waterfalls, and rivers. It is also home to a variety of ethnic minority groups, including the Ba Na, Gia Rai, and Sedang.
Location
Kon Tum 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. KonTum 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. The most popular option is to take a flight.
Once in Kon Tum, 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
Kon Tum 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 Kon Tum is around 25 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Kon Tum is during the dry season, from November to April.
Top destinations to explore
1. Nhà thờ chính toà Kon Tum (Kon Tum Cathedral)
Kon Tum Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, was first established in 1892 by French missionaries. Overcoming the challenges of construction in a remote and mountainous region, the cathedral was completed in 1918, marking a significant milestone in the spread of Catholicism in the Central Highlands.
The cathedral’s architectural design is a remarkable blend of Romanesque and Ede ethnic elements. The Romanesque influence is evident in the structure’s arched windows, vaulted ceilings, and imposing bell towers. However, the cathedral also incorporates distinctive Ede motifs, such as stylized animal carvings and geometric patterns, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Bảo tàng Kon Tum (Kon Tum Museum)
This captivating museum, housed in a traditional wooden building reminiscent of the region’s architectural heritage, invites visitors on a journey through time, exploring the rich tapestry of ethnic groups, historical events, and natural wonders that have shaped this fascinating corner of Vietnam.
The KonTum Museum is a celebration of the region’s rich ethnic heritage. Visitors will encounter a captivating display of traditional Ede costumes, adorned with intricate beadwork and colorful patterns, reflecting their deep connection to their ancestors and the natural world. They will also discover the tools, utensils, and handicrafts used by the Ede people in their daily lives, offering a glimpse into their ingenuity and craftsmanship.
3. Làng Kon K’Tu (Kon K’Tu Village)
As you venture into Kon K’Tu Village, you’ll be greeted by an atmosphere of tranquility and authenticity. Traditional stilt houses, adorned with vibrant motifs and symbols, line the narrow pathways, creating a sense of timelessness.
Immerse yourself in the rhythm of village life by observing daily activities such as weaving, wood carving, and traditional farming practices. Engage with the locals, who are eager to share their stories and customs, providing a deeper understanding of their way of life.
4. Thác Siu Puông (Siu Puong Waterfall)
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Central Highlands of Vietnam, Kon Tum Province is home to a stunning natural wonder: Siu Puong Waterfall. This breathtaking cascade is a must-see for any traveler seeking adventure and an escape into nature’s embrace.
Siu Puong Waterfall is a sight to behold with its five-tiered structure and a watercourse that tumbles down an impressive 140 meters. Surrounded by verdant rainforests, the waterfall exudes an aura of serenity that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Food
Heo Măng Đen quay (Roasted Mang Den Pig): This pig breed is a native one; the largest one weighs less than 20 kg. It is grown on a hill and fed a natural diet, which results in firm, flavorful, and nutrient-rich meat. Whole roast pork is cooked on the grill over hot coals until the skin is brown, crispy, and fragrant before being brought down to serve.
Thịt nhím (Porcupine Meat): The most popular dishes prepared here include porcupine wrapped in dong leaves, porcupine barbecued over fire, and porcupine bone soup. The firm, fragrant, and practically fat-free meat of the porcupine makes each meal special and delectable.
Cá gỏi kiến vàng (Yellow ants and fish salad): The stream-caught fish are around the size of three fingers, moderately sized, and are carefully cut and squeezed to drain the water and lessen the fishy smell. Young ants’ nests are used to select yellow ants. Lastly, combine the fish and ants with some crumbled roasted rice, salt, green chili, and wild pepper. To experience the dish’s amazing and distinctive flavor, roll your food in fig leaves while you eat.
Chuột đồng (Field mouse meat): Rats are smoked and burned using straw, which gives the flesh a pleasant aroma while preserving its natural sweetness. After being washed, people use bamboo sticks to skewer the field mice, put a thin layer of salt on the skin, and then grill them over hot embers. Along with green mango, salt, and pepper, the field mouse meat is served.
Gỏi Lá (Kon Tum vegetables salad): Even though there is only one dish, it takes up almost the entire tray because there are actually up to 40–50 different types of vegetables, ranging from less common ones like mango leaves, guava leaves, tomato leaves, and a wide variety of distinctive Tay Nguyen leaves to more common ones like cabbage leaves, perilla, dinh lang, fig leaves, stink vine, onions, and basil.
Accommodation
– Indochine Hotel Kon Tum: A 5-star luxurious hotel located in the heart of Kon Tum City.
– The Family Hotel: a 4-star family-friendly hotel located in a quiet area of Kon Tum City
– The KonTum Hotel: a 4-star modern hotel located in the center of Kon Tum City.
Kon Tum 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. 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!