Complete Travel Experience in Măng Đen - Kon Tum

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains and forests of the Central Highlands, Măng Đen shines like a 'charming fairy'. Its allure lies in its pristine beauty, mixed with a hint of romance and sweetness, unlike anywhere else. If you have a special affection for this land but lack extensive travel experience in Măng Đen, fret not! Mytour will reveal the secrets of budget-friendly solo travel to Măng Đen in the article below.

1. Introduction to Traveling to Măng Đen

Măng Đen is not just a famous destination; it's also a profound journey to find a bit of inner peace. The gentle breeze, the soothing sound of flowing streams, and the melodious chirping of birds deep in the forest act as a potent 'healing remedy' for the soul.

Măng Đen, often dubbed as the 'Second Da Lat of Vietnam' by travelers (Image source: Compiled)

The tourist area of Măng Đen, also known by locals as Đắk Long, is a small town located in the southern part of Kon Plông district, situated on a plateau spanning 148.07 km2. Its coordinates are approximately 60 km south of Kon Tum city, which equates to nearly 2 hours of travel by motorbike. 

Măng Đen is hailed as the 'Second Da Lat of Vietnam', the 'fairy of the great forests'. It earns this prestigious title due to its abundant natural resources and cool, fresh air. From pristine forests, lakes, to waterfalls and streams, every tranquil space in Măng Đen leaves an indelible impression on visitors. Most travelers who have experienced traveling to Măng Đen desire to return multiple times because of the marvelous wonders Măng Đen offers.

• Măng Đen Tourist Area Address: Located in Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province

2. Best Time to Visit Măng Đen?

According to travel experiences in Măng Đen, late autumn and early winter are the best times to embark on a trip to Măng Đen. During this period, the weather in Kon Tum gradually becomes cool with a mix of warm sunshine, dry skies, and less rain. Cherry blossoms in Măng Đen usually bloom most beautifully around New Year's, so travelers can visit during this time.

A peaceful sunset evening in Măng Đen (Image source: Compiled)

Măng Đen boasts blossoms in all four seasons. If visitors come in February, they can admire the pure, gentle beauty of mimosa and Bauhinia variegata flowers. In March or April, the entire town of Măng Đen is filled with the purple hue of jacaranda flowers. Just decide which type of flower you love and visit Măng Đen during its blooming season. Below are the blooming periods of flowers in Măng Đen for your reference:

• January: This is the time when apricot and cherry blossoms 'dominate' the town of Măng Đen.
• February: Bauhinia variegata and mimosa flowers will don themselves in pure white, 'covering' the vast sky.
• March to May: Thousands of purple jacaranda flowers bloom, creating a romantic and dreamy scenery.
• June to July: Enjoy the ripening rice season painting the landscape in vibrant yellow.
• August: This is the time when mâm xôi and phúc bồn tử flowers bloom most splendidly of the year.
• November to December: The entire town of Măng Đen is hazy in the bright yellow of wild sunflowers.

3. Măng Đen Travel Map

To reach Măng Đen tourist area, travelers need to have a good understanding of the Măng Đen travel map. According to Măng Đen travel experiences, you can travel by bus, car, or motorcycle. Below are some important information about how to get to Măng Đen:

• Exact Location: Măng Đen tourist area in the Central Highlands is located in Măng Đen town, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province.
• Route from Kon Tum city to Măng Đen: Starting from the center of Kon Tum City - National Highway 24 - Kon Rẫy town - Măng Đen Town (by bus route number 06 from Kon Tum City to Măng Đen)
• Common Transportation: Taxi, bus, motorcycle, car, etc.

4. Attractions in Măng Đen

4.1 Famous Spots

4.1.1 Pa Sỹ Waterfall

Pa Sỹ Waterfall is one of the most famous landmarks in Măng Đen Kon Tum tours. It is associated with the mysterious legend of 'Seven lakes, three waterfalls'. The story goes that in the ancient times, the Mơ Nâm ethnic people violated the celestial law. As a result, all seven villages were punished by the heavens and the earth by being burned alive in a sea of fire. From then on, seven lakes and three waterfalls gradually formed in this area. The name 'Seven lakes, three waterfalls' also originates from this legend.

Among the three major waterfalls, Pa Sỹ Waterfall is the most majestic and famous. When setting foot in this scenic spot, tourists will be overwhelmed by the majestic and picturesque natural scenery here. Both the waterfall and the lake are surrounded by majestic primeval forests, creating a beautiful landscape reminiscent of a fairyland.

The majestic and pristine beauty of Pa Sỹ Waterfall amidst the mountains of the Central Highlands (Source: Collected)

Not only can visitors admire the beautiful scenery, but they can also immerse themselves in the mountainous nature and enjoy delicious Central Highlands cuisine. There's nothing more wonderful than organizing a BBQ party with friends outdoors and chatting until late at night. Furthermore, you can participate in unique festivals such as seed sowing festivals, celebrating new rice crops, etc. According to the Măng Đen travel experience, tourists should visit Pa Sỹ Waterfall during the dry season, from October to April, to fully enjoy the cascading waterfall.

• Specific Address: Pa Sỹ Waterfall is located in the ecological tourism area of Pa Sỹ Waterfall, Măng Cảnh commune, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province.

According to the Măng Đen travel experience, the ticket prices for visiting Pa Sỹ Waterfall in 2024 are as follows:

• Entrance ticket: 20,000 VND/person
• Tent rental: 10,000 VND/piece
• BBQ stove: 30,000 VND/day
• Table and chairs: 30,000 VND/day
• Overnight accommodation service: 100,000 VND/person

4.1.2

Lake Đăk Ke

Lake Đăk Ke lies hidden deep within the Măng Đen Kon Tum tourist area, also known as Toong Rơ Pông Lake. The lake covers an area of ​​3 hectares, surrounded by vast primeval forests and lush green trees. The surface of the lake is calm and flat all year round with a beautiful emerald green color. From a distance, Lake Đăk Ke resembles a giant mirror reflecting light across the Măng Đen sky.

Lake Đăk Ke is one of the must-visit destinations on Măng Đen tours (Image source: Collection)

However, the most prominent feature of Lake Đăk Ke comes from the vibrant pink flowers adorning a corner of the sky. When each petal falls slowly onto the calm surface of the lake and the gentle breeze passes by, it brings an indescribable sense of enchantment. Every scene at Lake Đăk Ke is painting a serene watercolor picture that captivates the hearts and minds of visitors.

• Specific address: Lake Đăk Ke is located in the Măng Đen ecotourism area, Kon Ploong district, Kon Tum

4.1.3 Lake Dambri

Another unmissable destination when traveling to Măng Đen is Dambri Lake. This is the largest freshwater lake in Măng Đen among the 7 natural lakes. While Đăk Ke Lake boasts a pristine, majestic beauty, Dambri Lake enchants visitors with its romantic, serene landscape.

The peaceful, dreamy scenery of Dambri Lake in the early morning (Image source: Collection)

Not only can visitors admire the scenery, but they can also capture the best photo spots. Additionally, Dambri Lake organizes exciting fishing activities. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil mountainous landscape while experiencing the fishing process. According to the Măng Đen travel experience, the ideal time to visit Dambri Lake is from November to May. During this time, the weather is dry with plenty of warm sunshine, suitable for outdoor activities.

• Specific address: Dambri Lake is located in Măng Đen town, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province
• Ticket price: 200,000 VND per ticket (adults), 100,000 VND per ticket (children)
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

4.1.4 Virgin Mary Statue of Măng Đen

In addition to the famous tourist destinations, Măng Đen is also a spiritual land associated with many eerie legends and mystical spiritual stories. Among them, the sacred Virgin Mary Statue of Măng Đen cannot be overlooked. The statue of the Virgin Mary of Măng Đen was presented by the priest Lê Thành Ánh and brought to Kon Tum by helicopter.

The Virgin Mary Statue is a famous spiritual landmark of the Măng Đen region (Image source: Collection)

Many tourists visit the Virgin Mary Statue of Măng Đen believing in its divine intervention and grace. They mainly come here to pray for peace, luck, and hope that the Virgin Mary will always protect and bless the unfortunate. Therefore, pilgrims often touch the hands of the Virgin Mary to share their worries and sorrows in life.

• Address: The Virgin Mary Statue of Măng Đen is located in Măng Đen village, Đắk Lông commune, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province, about 60km from the center of Kon Tum city.

4.1.5 Wind Whistle Hill

It would be a great oversight not to include Wind Whistle Hill in the Măng Đen travel experience. This is a trendy check-in spot for those passionate about capturing picturesque moments. After visiting Pa Sỹ waterfall, you can head to Wind Whistle Hill as these two destinations are quite close to each other. At the hill, tourists can freely take photos or immerse themselves in the romantic and refreshing natural surroundings.

4.1.6 Khanh Lam Pagoda

Besides the Virgin Mary Statue of Măng Đen, Khánh Lâm Pagoda is also one of the famous spiritual tourist destinations. It's not an exaggeration to say that Khánh Lâm Pagoda is the most beautiful Buddhist architectural work in Măng Đen. The pagoda is designed in traditional Vietnamese architectural style. Khánh Lâm Pagoda stands out with its three-tiered roof structure. The highest roof is stylized according to the characteristic features of the traditional communal house of the Tây Nguyên ethnic group. Inside the temple is the main hall where the statue of Buddha Amitābha is worshipped.

The architecture of Khánh Lâm Pagoda is a harmonious blend of Vietnamese traditional culture and the distinctive characteristics of the Central Highlands (Source: Collection)

• Address: Khánh Lâm Pagoda is located within the Măng Đen tourist area, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province.

4.2 Entertainment Spots

Not only famous for its stunning landscapes, but Măng Đen Highland tourism also offers many exciting entertainment spots. Here are some recreational destinations you can explore:

4.2.1 Ê Ban Farm

Ê Ban Farm is a farm combined with homestay accommodation. Here, tourists not only check-in and experience farm life but also relax and stay overnight. According to the Măng Đen travel experience, Ê Ban Farm is the ideal destination for romantic souls.

Every frame at Ê Ban Farm is as beautiful as a Korean movie scene with shimmering flowers in the sunlight such as azaleas, snapdragons, and lavender. Just frame your camera, and you'll have an amazingly surreal photo. Moreover, from the viewpoint at Ê Ban Farm, you can admire the majestic Ngọc Lễ mountain range. Not to mention, you can also enjoy the excellent taste of pomelo grown right on the farm.

• Address: Ê Ban Farm is located in Măng Cành commune, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province.
• Ticket price: 30,000 VND/person.
• Opening hours: Daily

4.2.2 Kon Bring Public Cultural Tourism Village

If you want to experience the culture of the Central Highlands, Kon Bring Public Cultural Tourism Village is an ideal choice. It is the largest tourist village in Kon Plông district, home to the M’Nâm ethnic group. Here, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional dances of the Central Highlands and enjoy traditional rice wine. According to the Măng Đen travel experience, tourists should visit this village once to create unforgettable memories.

Experience the lifestyle, customs, and traditions at Kon Bring Public Cultural Tourism Village (Source: Collection)

• Address: The village is located in Đắk Long commune, Kon Plông district, Kon Tum province

4.2.3 Măng Đen Pedestrian Street

Măng Đen Pedestrian Street and its culinary scene have become the lively dining spot for every traveler. Although Măng Đen Pedestrian Street is just a short street, the food stalls are all designed in a colorful and vibrant manner. This attracts a large number of food enthusiasts to explore and experience.

Nightlife at Măng Đen Pedestrian Street (Source: Collection)

In the evenings, cafes, homestays, and souvenir shops will illuminate with colorful lights, attracting visitors. If you have the chance to visit Măng Đen Pedestrian Street, enjoy a hot cup of coffee while admiring the town of Măng Đen at night! According to the Măng Đen travel experience, this will be an unforgettable memory for you.

• Address: Măng Đen Pedestrian Street (also known as Sunset Boulevard) is located on Võ Nguyên Giáp Street, in the center of Măng Đen town.

4.2.4 Wooden Statue Garden

The Wooden Statue Garden is located in the Pa Sỹ Waterfall tourist area, on a hillside spanning over 1 hectare of primeval forest. Along the paved path are 100 wooden statues carved by 33 artisans. Each wooden statue symbolizes the imagery of the indigenous people of the Central Highlands, such as men holding axes, carrying hoes, smoking pipes, hunting, carrying children, and more.

4.3 Scenic Cafés

Besides the breathtaking landmarks, Măng Đen is also known for its coffee culture. It's truly regrettable to visit Măng Đen without enjoying its coffee. Below are some famous cafes in Măng Đen for those who love to chill and savor moments of peace in the mountain town.

4.3.1 Mountain Lodge Măng Đen

If there were a vote for the most beautiful cafes in Măng Đen, Mountain Lodge would undoubtedly be on top. It's a coffee shop combined with a resort homestay. Therefore, the space at Mountain Lodge is exquisitely designed, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. The first impression of visitors to Mountain Lodge is its romantic and poetic ambiance.

Just strike a pose, and you'll instantly get a 'million-view' photo at Mountain Lodge café (Source: Collection)

According to the Măng Đen travel experience, always have your camera or phone ready for check-ins because every corner of Mountain Lodge is picturesque. A big plus for Mountain Lodge is the high-quality beverages, worth every penny. The coffee at Mountain Lodge is brewed using machines imported from Italy, so the flavor is quite distinct. If you're someone who enjoys experiencing new things, Mountain Lodge might just suit your taste!

• Address of Mountain Lodge Café Măng Đen: Hồ Xuân Hương Street, Măng Đen Town, Kontum

4.3.2 La Petite - Cafe & Beer Măng Đen

According to the Măng Đen travel experience, La Petite - Cafe & Beer is a café combined with beer service in a luxurious space. La Petite café is built from an old abandoned house. Now, it has become an ideal dating spot for couples, groups of friends traveling to this sunny and windy land.

A peaceful corner of La Petite Cafe (Source: Collection)

The café space is a cozy wooden house surrounded by the primeval forest. Visiting La Petite, you will feel the serene and peaceful atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else. The café's menu is quite diverse with many types of beverages and fruit juices. The most special are the delicious coffee and fresh beer.

• Address of La Petite Cafe: No. 39 Vo Thi Sau, Măng Đen Town, Kon Plông District, Kon Tum Province

4.3.3 Tcast - Coffee & Beer Pub

If you want to immerse yourself in the beautiful nature of Măng Đen, head to Tcast - Coffee & Beer Pub. This café is nestled in the midst of charming pine forests, creating an incredibly peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The highlight of Tcast is its coffee, which is prepared using a special recipe, resulting in a uniquely aromatic flavor.

• Address of Tcast Coffee: No. 9 Ho Xuan Huong Street, Măng Đen Town, Kon Plông District, Kon Tum Province

5. Route to Măng Đen and Transportation

The journey to Măng Đen offers two main routes: from Kon Tum or Quảng Ngãi. Here are two ways to reach Măng Đen by bus that you can consider:

• Route from Kon Tum to Măng Đen: You can take a bus from Quỳnh Tú Bus Station (operating at 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM) or Hưng Thịnh Bus (departing from 5:30 AM).
• Route from Quảng Ngãi to Măng Đen: You can catch the Xuân Mai Bus (departing at 6:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 5:00 PM).
• For travelers from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi: You can take sleeper buses from bus companies such as Phương Trang, Hoa Mai, Minh Quốc, Phượng Thu, etc. The bus ticket prices usually range from 250,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person, with a travel time of about 10 to 13 hours.

Additionally, you can book flights to Pleiku (Gia Lai) from airlines like VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines. From Pleiku Airport, it's about 100km more to reach Măng Đen. According to the Măng Đen travel experience, it's advisable to book flight tickets early to save costs.

6. Accommodation Options in Măng Đen

Given its small size, Măng Đen still lacks many large hotels. One of the 4-star standard hotels worth mentioning is Golden Boutique Hotel. With over 63 rooms featuring large windows and balconies, modern amenities, this place ensures a comfortable stay. Additionally, Măng Đen offers plenty of resort-style homestays for you to consider.

Golden Boutique Hotel is one of the beloved 5-star standard hotels by many travelers (Source: Collection)

7. What to Eat in Măng Đen?

Due to its significant influence from the Central Highlands culture, Măng Đen's specialties carry the unique flavors of the mountainous forests. The cuisine here is diverse, rich, catering to the general taste of many tourists. Below are some delicious dishes in Măng Đen that you can enjoy according to Măng Đen travel experience:

• Rice cooked in bamboo tubes with grilled chicken
• Hotpot with wild pepper
• Dried bamboo shoot and chicken salad
• Rice noodle soup with snakehead fish
• Eggplant
• Boiled forest vegetables
• Wild banana flower salad

Rice cooked in bamboo tubes with grilled chicken is the perfect combination when enjoying Măng Đen cuisine (Source: Collection)

Recommended famous restaurants in Măng Đen:

• Măng Đen Journey Restaurant
• Central Highlands Restaurant
• Aunty Sinh's Restaurant in Đắk Long
• A Kay 7 Snakehead Fish Noodle Soup Restaurant

8. Travel tips for Măng Đen

To have a complete Măng Đen trip, you need to consider the following important points:

• The road to Măng Đen is winding and twisty, so you must be extremely careful when traveling by motorbike.
• Don't forget to bring raincoats, jackets, umbrellas, and damp clothes because the weather in Măng Đen is quite cold in the early morning and evening.
• Prepare drinks and light snacks to ensure your body stays energized.
• When shopping or participating in recreational activities in Măng Đen, be sure to inquire about ticket prices and expenses in advance!

Above is the entire Măng Đen travel experience that Mytour shares. We hope you have a pleasant journey exploring the 'Second Dalat.' If you need to book cheap Măng Đen tours, please contact the Mytour hotline Mytour for detailed advice.