Buzz
The attractions in Gia Lai are becoming increasingly popular on the travel map. This has led to a growing number of tourists flocking here. What is it about this land that draws visitors in? What fun and exciting experiences await those who stop by? To find out, join us as we explore the following article by Mytour.
Introduction to Gia Lai tourism
Gia Lai is located in the northern part of the Central Highlands. It is also the second largest province in our country, following Nghệ An. The provincial capital of Gia Lai is Pleiku. Gia Lai enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity and heavy rainfall. There are hardly any storms or salt fog.
Gia Lai derives its name from the 'Jarai' people, the indigenous ethnic group residing here. Despite enduring numerous historical ups and downs, the locals have managed to preserve their traditional cultural customs. Of particular note is the space of Gong culture in the Central Highlands.
Gia Lai - A recent favorite check-in spot among tourists (Image Source: Compiled)
The ideal time to explore Gia Lai is from November to April. This period marks the dry season with pleasant, refreshing weather and no rain. November and December are particularly favored due to the cool weather and golden sunshine. It's also the season of ripe rice fields, wild sunflowers, and blooming Bombax ceiba flowers. From February to September, the skies are adorned with white coffee flowers.
Additionally, from May to October, Gia Lai experiences its rainy season. Extended periods of rain often occur from July to September. Due to its characteristic plateau climate, humidity levels are high, and rainfall is abundant. It's advisable to avoid visiting during this time as it may hinder a complete exploration of Gia Lai's tourist attractions.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Gia Lai
Having insights into the beautiful landscapes of Gia Lai will enrich your journey. If you're still unsure where to go when visiting Gia Lai, check out the following suggestions!
1. T'Nưng Lake - Gia Lai Tourist Destination
T'Nưng Lake is one of the must-visit tourist spots in Gia Lai. The lake was formed by three interconnected dormant volcanoes. These volcanoes ceased activity millions of years ago. It's named 'lake' due to its vast expanse of water.
Spanning over 220 hectares, this place is renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the Central Highlands. The lake captivates tourists with its azure blue color and pristine water. Many liken its beauty to the pure eyes of a Pleiku girl. Some even refer to it as the 'bottomless lake' due to its elusive depth.
The picturesque and romantic scenery around the lake will provide you with beautiful photo opportunities (Image Source: Compiled)
The most intriguing feature here is the narrow strip of land running through the heart of the lake, adorned with forests. This creates an ideal viewpoint for visitors. The lake shore also forms the mouth of a volcano, rising high. Thus, standing here, you'll have the chance to admire the panoramic view of T'Nưng Lake.
T'Nưng Lake is also one of the most beautiful spots for sunset hunting. If you're a fan of sunset moments, you can come here to witness the scene of the sun setting. In the evening, local residents often come here for jogging and exercising. The beautiful scenery and pleasant atmosphere around the lake will make you feel relaxed.
2. Gia Lai Tourist Destination - Unity Square
A relatively new but beloved spot in Gia Lai is Unity Square. This destination is often referred to as the heart of Pleiku town. The square was inaugurated in December 2012 and covers an area of 12 hectares.
The highlight of the square is the statue of President Ho Chi Minh located in the central area. Standing at 11 meters tall and weighing 16 tons, it's made of pure bronze. The statue is crafted to the exact proportions of a real person. It can be said that this is the largest statue of President Ho Chi Minh in the world. It took over 2 years to complete the statue.
The spacious atmosphere at the square (Image Source: Compiled)
Behind the statue is a stone stele engraved with a letter from President Ho Chi Minh to the Southern Ethnic Minorities Congress. The event was grandly held here in 1946. Another impressive feature at the square is the Central Highlands gong ensemble. This bronze ensemble is the largest in the country.
This is an ideal space for interaction between tourists and locals in Gia Lai. Local residents often come here for group exercises every morning and evening. In the evenings or weekends, the square is bustling and lively. There are also many street food vendors around for you to enjoy while strolling around.
3. Gia Lai Tourist Destination - Sky Hole
Sky Hole is located in An Khe district and exudes a rustic beauty. It's one of the Gia Lai tourist spots with a peaceful, simple, and rustic charm. When standing atop Sky Hole and looking down below, you may feel quite frightened at first. But as you become accustomed, you'll find it to be a magnificent sight.
Sky Hole is a system of 14 waterfall cliffs nestled between two mountain valleys. Surrounding this location is a vast expanse of lush green forest. The source of this location originates from the Bon stream of Hoa Binh village flowing towards Binh Dinh. Among them, waterfall number 2 is considered the tallest, standing proudly at a height of 70 meters.
Looking down from the mountaintop, you'll feel deeply captivated. And looking up from below the waterfall, you'll experience a sense of towering height. Perhaps it's because of this characteristic that this place is called Sky Hole. It can be said that this is one of the Gia Lai tourist spots that still retains its pristine, mystical charm.
Sky Hole is deeply nestled in the mountainous area, so the roads can be quite difficult and dangerous to traverse. Therefore, you need to carefully consider your exploration time and plan accordingly. If possible, it's advisable to visit during the dry season to ensure your safety. And don't forget to thoroughly research the routes, as well as exercise utmost caution during the journey.
4. Famous Gia Lai Tourist Destination - Chư Đăng Ya Volcano
Chư Đăng Ya Volcano is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Gia Lai that you shouldn't miss. This volcano conceals the T’Nưng Lake and has been inactive for millions of years. In the past, it erupted violently, leaving behind a crater that exists to this day.
Chư Đăng Ya Volcano boasts picturesque and tranquil scenery. Here, you'll have the opportunity to admire vast expanses of fields stretching before your eyes. Along with towering ancient trees standing tall against the sky. Stepping foot here, you'll feel the insignificance of humans in the face of majestic nature.
The majestic beauty of Chư Đăng Ya Volcano when viewed from above (Image Source: Compiled)
The best time to visit here is from late October to early December. This is also the time when wild sunflowers bloom brilliantly yellow along the mountainside. It's not an exaggeration to say that the Chư Đăng Ya Volcano area is the paradise of wild sunflowers. The yellow hue of the flowers blending with the green of the grass creates a breathtaking landscape.
5. Famous Gia Lai Tourist Destination - Tea Lake
A Gia Lai tourist spot highly favored by visitors is Tea Lake. This destination will take you to majestic mountain ranges. They follow the red dirt roads, giving a feeling of being enveloped, embracing the tea hills. A cool, fresh, and airy space will bring you moments of relaxation.
Upon arrival, you'll see endless tea hills. The cool green tea color seems to stretch to the horizon. To capture standout photos, remember to choose suitable attire! Avoid clothes that match the color of the grass to avoid blending in with the landscape.
Tea Lake with its lush greenery (Image Source: Compiled)
Tea Lake is a tea plantation established by the French in 1920. The tea bushes here are mainly irrigated from the water source of T’Nưng Lake. You can visit the tea hills at any time of the year, but the most beautiful times are during the wild sunflower season in October and November, and the coffee flower season in February and March.
Due to its highland terrain, the climate here is very fresh and pleasant. The tea hills are located close to the lake, so you can plan your visit accordingly. It's best to come here early in the morning for the most beautiful photos. At this time, the lingering mist still hangs in the air. When the sun rises, casting the first rays of sunlight, the tea hills suddenly become more beautiful than at any other time of the day.
6. Famous Gia Lai Tourist Destination - Minh Thanh Pagoda
Minh Thanh Pagoda is not only a spiritual destination but also a highly famous Gia Lai tourist spot. The pagoda is located at 348 Nguyen Viet Xuan Street, in Pleiku City. It impresses visitors with its architectural style resembling that of Japan.
The pagoda sits atop a hill about 2 km from the city center. This spiritual structure covers a total area of 20,000 m2 and was built in 1964. It features several distinctively designed areas with incredibly spacious surroundings. During major festivals, the pagoda is always filled with the scent of incense.
The scenic beauty of Minh Thanh Pagoda stands out (Image Source: Compiled)
Upon entering the pagoda, you'll encounter the statue of Bodhisattva Quan Âm placed in the middle of the entrance. The courtyard is meticulously designed with stone pillars, greenery... On the way to the main hall, you'll see large paintings depicting the teachings of the Buddha for sentient beings and disciples.
The spacious courtyard, the fragrant smoke of incense... enhance the serenity of the landscape. You'll have incredibly tranquil and peaceful moments when you set foot here. Visiting the pagoda, you'll feel as if you're lost in a temple somewhere in the land of Phù Tang.
7. Gia Lai Tourism Spot - Pleiku Prison
Pleiku Prison is a must-visit destination when you come to Gia Lai. Stepping foot here, you'll have the opportunity to broaden your knowledge about the glorious history of the nation. This place was built by the French colonialists in 1925. It was erected with the purpose of incarcerating communist soldiers and patriotic civilians.
To commemorate a bygone era, Pleiku Prison has been recognized as a historical relic. This location is open to visitors free of charge every day of the week. The management board has recreated the horrific torture punishments of the invading imperialists. Thus, visitors will gain a clearer understanding of war and the sacrifices of their ancestors.
A destination imbued with profound historical values (Image Source: Compiled)
The prison is surrounded by a 3-meter-high fortress wall. Outside, there are multiple layers of steel fences, incredibly sturdy. This is a historical testament to the atrocities of the Vietnam War. Passing through, you will somewhat feel the hardship of the political prisoners' lives.
Although the prison is no longer intact, it still preserves many valuable artifacts. In 2015, a memorial plaque for Pleiku prisoner of war camp was built on the site of the old prison. This project is a tribute to those who sacrificed themselves for the nation's independence and freedom.
8. Gia Lai Tourism Spot - Yaly Hydropower Reservoir
A popular Gia Lai tourism destination that many travelers check-in is the Yaly hydropower reservoir. This is a hydropower system on the Sesan River and is also the second-largest hydropower plant in our country. The scale of the project is only behind the Da River hydropower plant. The scenery along the road to the hydropower reservoir is also beautiful, with forests, rivers, and hills.
Yaly Waterfall is Vietnam's tallest waterfall, towering up to 42 meters. The grandeur of this waterfall has captivated countless travelers from afar. Standing on the dam, you can see Ngoc Linh mountain from a distance. Sunset is the perfect time to sit in a canoe and admire the beauty of the Sê San River.
When in Gia Lai, don't forget to visit the Yaly hydropower plant! (Source: Collected)
Please note that this destination is only open for visits during office hours. You will visit the main gate of the plant, the spillway, the dam, and the memorial area. Therefore, you need to plan your schedule according to the appropriate time to visit this place!
9. Gia Lai Tourism Spot - Hang Én Waterfall (K50)
When it comes to the Central Highlands, you've likely heard of Hang Én Waterfall, also known as K50 Waterfall. This waterfall is located in the Kon Chư Răng Nature Reserve in K’Bang District, Gia Lai. To conquer this waterfall, you'll need 1 to 3 days. If you're someone who loves adventure and exploration, this is a place you can't miss.
Hang Én Waterfall is named after the swallows that inhabit the area behind the waterfall. There are now several concrete roads for motorcycles leading to the foot of the waterfall. After the concrete road ends, you'll need to walk another 20 minutes to reach the site. The journey may be challenging, but when you arrive, you'll find it incredibly rewarding.
K50 Waterfall with its pristine beauty amidst the mountains and forests (Source: Collected)
The waterfall boasts an incredibly majestic beauty, resembling a giant white silk strip. The waterfall is the source of the Côn River and is hidden deep in the primeval forest. It stands about 50 meters tall and spans up to 100 meters wide. That's also why it's called the K50 waterfall.
The forest path to the waterfall is quite challenging. There are no hotels or homestays near this area. Therefore, you can only rest in the forest and camp overnight. If you want to visit here, you need to go with a local guide. Also, remember to bring long-sleeved shirts, high socks, a walking stick, insect repellent to avoid insects and snakes.
10. Famous Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Dragon Jaw Mountain
Dragon Jaw Mountain is a very famous tourist destination in Gia Lai. When you step foot here, you will have the opportunity to admire the lush landscapes of the Central Highlands mountains. The tranquil and lush natural scenery will enchant tourists. In addition, you will have the opportunity to experience many exciting activities on the journey to the mountain peak.
This is an old volcano in Gia Lai with a height of about 1,028 meters. This mountain is also the 'roof' of the mountain town here. Dragon Jaw Mountain possesses a unique shape. When viewed from above, you will see the mountain peak like an inverted giant funnel.
Exploring Dragon Jaw Mountain is an exciting journey (Source: Collection)
Although there are no lakes or rivers around, the vegetation here is very lush. The vigorous vitality and lush nature are what you will feel most clearly when visiting Dragon Jaw Mountain. If you come here in October or November, you will have the opportunity to admire the wildflowers blooming all over the mountain foothills.
11. Famous Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Kon Ka Kinh National Park
Kon Ka Kinh National Park is a perfect tourist destination in Gia Lai for those who love to explore. When you step foot here, you will have the opportunity to embark on a journey to 'hunt for' rare species of animals. Besides, immerse yourself in the fresh, cool air of the national park.
This destination has been honored as one of the ASEAN heritage parks since 2003. During trekking, you will have the opportunity to admire the rich flora and fauna. Most notably, when you reach the mountain peak, the majestic scenery of the Truong Son range will be captured in your sight.
If you're someone who loves exploring and learning about nature, you must visit this place (Source: Collection)
The national park covers a total area of 42,000 hectares and spans across 5 communes: Kron Pne, Dak Roong, K’Bang, Mang Yang, and Dak Doa. The trekking journey will take you to the wilderness of the highlands. This place has been listed as a special-use forest in Vietnam since 1986, boasting a rich and diverse vegetation system.
This national park is famous for its river, waterfall, and stream systems. For example, Knia stream, Dak Pooc waterfall, 95 waterfall... The highest peak in Kon Ka Dinh is 1,748 meters above sea level. Other mountain ranges range from 1,200 to 1,500 meters high, gradually decreasing from north to south.
12. Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Pink Grass Hill Đăk Đoa
If you love the pink grass hills in Dalat, then right in Gia Lai, there's also a pink grass hill. This is a tourist destination in Gia Lai highly favored by visitors in November. Pink grass is a type of wild grass growing amidst pine forests with a dreamy purple color. The entire hill covered in pink looks incredibly romantic and charming.
Pink Grass Hill Đăk Đoa is about 20 km from downtown Pleiku. From the city center, take QL19 towards the central roundabout of Đăk Đoa town. Then, turn right to enter Glar commune, from here, continue for another 500 meters to reach the destination. This place is also known by many as the 'Pink Grass Valley Glar'.
The Pink Grass Hill in Gia Lai offers an incredibly romantic landscape (Source: Collection)
During the pink grass season, you'll find many tourists here. There are young people coming for check-ins and fun, while others are families camping. Besides this hill, there's another pink grass hill in Chư Sê district. The best time to visit and explore is early in the morning or at sunset.
13. Famous Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Sê San Fishing Village
Sê San Fishing Village is a beloved destination for its uniqueness. Amidst the serene plateau, few know that Gia Lai also has a place with strong characteristics of the Western river region. And that place is the Sê San Fishing Village. This is where the local people thrive on fishing for a living.
This destination lies along provincial highway DT664 and is about 100 km from downtown Pleiku. About 10 years ago, when the Sê San hydroelectric reservoir was just formed, the Sê San Fishing Village began to emerge. Initially, there were only 1 or 2 households, but over time, it gradually developed into the fishing village it is today.
Sê San Fishing Village offers a different perspective on Gia Lai's mountainous scenery (Source: Collection)
Most of the fishermen here come from Huế, An Giang, Hậu Giang… Visiting the fishing village, you'll have the chance to learn more about the local life here. Along with that is witnessing the rare beauty of labor in the river region on the plateau.
14. Famous Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Hundred-Year-Old Pine Trees
A rather romantic tourist destination in Gia Lai that you'll love is the hundred-year-old pine trees. Almost no one knows the exact age of the pine trees here. They only know that they began to appear when the French set foot here and established the Tra Department. That was the first tea plantation in Pleiku, Gia Lai, built at the beginning of the 20th century.
The pine trees were cultivated by the workers of the Tra Department. Over time, they grew larger and formed a beautiful rural road. This place is about 15 km from the city center and close to other tourist attractions. Such as the Chư Đăng Ya volcano, Buu Minh pagoda…
The beauty of the pine trees will leave you in awe (Source: Collection)
This place is also known as the 'Korean Road'. The romantic scenery along this road will give you extremely impressive check-in photos. Many couples and young people often come here to take lots of photos, making this place even more famous.
15. Famous Tourist Destination in Gia Lai - Pleichuet Church
A Gia Lai tourist destination that Mytour wants to introduce to you is Pleichuet Church. The church is located on Truong Dinh Street, in Pleiku City. The impressive highlight of this structure is its architectural style inspired by the traditional longhouses of the Central Highlands.
This religious structure has a large area, five times the size of ordinary longhouses. It serves as the gathering place for more than 1,400 parishioners. However, tourists can also visit and explore, especially during festive seasons. This is also the first church built to serve the Jrai ethnic community.
The unique architectural style of the church has attracted many tourists (Source: Collection)
However, as this is a religious destination, visitors should remember to dress modestly and respectfully. Also, the church may have specific regulations regarding worship hours. Depending on the time, services may be conducted in different languages. So, if you plan to visit the church, make sure to research beforehand!
Important Tips for Exploring Gia Lai Tourist Destinations
To fully enjoy your visit to Gia Lai tourist destinations, careful planning is essential. Factors such as transportation, accommodation, and dining options all need to be considered. Here are some useful tips to enhance your trip experience!
1. Transportation Options
If you're traveling from northern provinces, the quickest way to reach Gia Lai is by air. Flights from Hanoi to Pleiku operate almost daily. You can check flight prices on the Mytour website. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can also fly to Pleiku.
To secure affordable tickets, it's advisable to purchase them at least one month before your departure. The airport is approximately 3 km away from the city center. You can pre-book airport transfer services or take a taxi or ride-hailing service into the city.
You can take an evening bus to Gia Lai and arrive at your destination after a night's sleep on the bus (Source: Compiled)
Alternatively, a more budget-friendly option is to travel by coach. There are bus routes to Gia Lai from almost every province. You can opt for an evening bus ride and wake up at your destination. Or if you prefer adventure, you can form a group to travel by motorbike.
If you're not traveling by motorbike, upon arrival, you can rent a vehicle for sightseeing. You can rent a motorbike or hire a taxi or self-drive car to reach various Gia Lai tourist destinations. This allows you to have control over your time, itinerary, and exploration opportunities.
2. Accommodation
Most Gia Lai tourist destinations are not far from the city center. Therefore, you'll have plenty of accommodation options. Gia Lai offers many quality hotels for you to choose from. Prices range from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND per night, offering a diverse selection.
There are numerous lodging options in Gia Lai at various price points (Source: Compiled)
Alternatively, for a more unique experience, you can opt for a homestay. These accommodations typically cost around 300,000 VND per night. To find the perfect stay, it's best to check feedback from previous travelers. This will ensure you have a delightful and fulfilling journey.
3. Must-Try Dishes
- Forest Leaf Hotpot. Each type of forest leaf in this dish offers great health benefits. Enjoy by wrapping the leaves with sour sausage, grilled fish, or grilled meat. The dish tastes even better when dipped in fermented fish sauce.
- Gia Lai Dry Pho. This dish combines dry pho noodles with a bowl of savory broth. The noodles are blanched to a milky white color. In the bowl, you'll find shredded chicken, pork, or beef. Toppings include fried shallots, pork fat, and green onions. The sweet and savory broth is simmered for hours.
- Rotten Crab Vermicelli, also known as Fermented Crab Vermicelli. The fermented sauce used to make the broth has a distinctive aroma derived from field crabs. This dish might be an acquired taste, but once you try it, you'll be captivated by its unique flavor. The vermicelli is cooked with pork skin, fermented shrimp cake, shrimp crackers, and pork belly.
- Golden Ant Salt. This unique seasoning is only found in Gia Lai and is meticulously prepared. Locals venture into the Krông Pa mountains to capture these ants. The ants are manually roasted until crispy, then crushed and mixed with coarse salt. A touch of chili, dried shallots, and wild leaves adds depth of flavor.
4. Travel Tips for Gia Lai
- Most Gia Lai tourist spots are hilly, so if renting a motorbike, opt for a semi-automatic for easier maneuvering. Remember to adhere to speed limits and traffic laws!
- Don't forget to bring insect repellent, mosquito repellent, and basic medications!
- Take some time to learn about the customs and traditions of the Gia Lai people when visiting their villages.
- If participating in trekking at any Gia Lai tourist destination, adhere strictly to the principles. Never wander off alone into the forest. It's best to go in a group with a local guide.
- Avoid visiting Gia Lai during the rainy season. If you must, refrain from visiting cliffs, waterfalls, or trekking in the forest. This ensures safety for you and your companions.
Make sure to grasp the basic tips for a complete journey (Source: Collection)
Hope the above information will bring you a fulfilling and enjoyable trip beyond expectations. Remember to prepare thoroughly before the journey and choose the suitable time for exploration! The Gia Lai tourist destinations always hold many things for you to discover. Whether you travel independently or book a tour, both have their own joys. If you need to book a tour, contact Mytour immediately via hotline Mytour!
