Things To Do
in Kon Tum
Kon Tum is a highland town in central Vietnam known for its cool climate and forested surroundings. It blends Indigenous mountain cultures with remnants of French colonial architecture, most notably the Wooden Church. The town sits along the Dak Po River, offering scenic viewpoints and easy access to minority villages.
Visitors can sample forest herbs, explore markets, and photograph dramatic hillside landscapes across four distinctive seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kon Tum and settle into your accommodation to freshen up for the adventures ahead. Take some time to explore the local area around your hotel and get acquainted with the beautiful scenery. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café to recharge.
Visit the Kon Tum Wooden Church, a remarkable structure showcasing unique architecture and cultural significance. After exploring the church, stroll through the nearby villagers to observe traditional handicrafts and meet local artisans. Grab lunch at a local eatery to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional dinner at a restaurant specializing in local dishes. Afterwards, take a gentle walk along the Dak Bla River, savoring the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. Conclude your evening in a local café, sipping on Vietnamese coffee while immersed in the tranquil ambiance.
Start your day by visiting the Kon Tum Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and diverse cultures of the Central Highlands. Engage with local exhibits showcasing traditional costumes and artifacts. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the museum café before heading out for more exploration.
Take a guided tour to the Bahnar ethnic minority village to immerse yourself in their daily life and traditions. Participate in activities such as weaving or pottery, enhancing your cultural understanding. For lunch, savor local dishes prepared by the villagers, experiencing authentic cuisine.
Return to the city and visit a local market to experience the vibrant evening atmosphere and shop for handicrafts. Have dinner at a restaurant that serves specialties of the region, such as grilled meat and sticky rice. Wind down the night with a visit to a local bar for traditional music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🫖Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi or motorbike ride | $0.5-2 |
| 🛍️Markets and shopping | $1-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with multiple ethnic groups
- Cool highland climate and scenic mountain landscapes
- Friendly locals and authentic market experiences
- Accessible nearby villages and nature trails
- Limited nightlife compared with coastal cities
- Rural areas can have slower infrastructure and fewer amenities
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much money?
- "Ở đây có món chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes here?
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi không?" - Can you help me?
- "Tôi muốn trả bằng tiền mặt" - I want to pay with cash
Places to Visit in Kon Tum
Visit one of these nice places.
A 1913 wooden church with distinctive architecture set against the hillside—perfect for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
A historic river crossing offering sweeping views of the Dak Po River and surrounding village life.
Vibrant early-morning scenes with colorful baskets, local produce, and market chatter.
Lanes lined with timber-framed houses and stone facades ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Food in Kon Tum
Kon Tum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice slow-cooked inside bamboo tubes over charcoal, typically served with grilled meat or fish and dipping sauces.
Must-Try!
Smoked buffalo meat preserved in the highlands, offering a chewy, savory snack or addition to meals.
Forest-foraged greens prepared as simple stir-fries or clear soups, showcasing wild herbal flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling center for fresh produce, herbs, and daily staples, with stalls offering quick bites and traditional snacks.
Evening grills, sticky rice, and fresh fruits from mobile vendors along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet politely, address older people with courtesy, and remove hats indoors as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or churches; ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages.
Safety
Tipping in Kon Tum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; round up for drivers and guides as a gesture of thanks.
Cash in VND is widely used; some urban businesses may accept cards or mobile payments, with ATMs available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with warm days and pleasant evenings; outdoor activities are comfortable, but carry water and sun protection.
Frequent showers in the afternoon; landscapes become lush and verdant, trails may be slippery—bring a light rain jacket.
Milder, cooler mornings and evenings; fog and soft light create dramatic photography conditions.
Kon Tum at Night
Hiking in Kon Tum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails in the Ngọc Linh range offering forest scenery and highland viewpoints; some routes require permits and local guidance.
Highland forest trails with varied difficulty, opportunities for wildlife viewing and panoramic vistas.
Airports
How to reach Kon Tum by plane.
Closest airport in Gia Lai Province; approximately 60–90 minutes by road to Kon Tum; services domestic flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with connections onward.
Major hub in central Vietnam; about a 5–6 hour drive/overnight bus ride to Kon Tum, with wide international and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region is home to diverse groups such as Bahnar, Jarai, and Xơ Đăng, each with distinct languages, costumes, and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched by communities, especially among youth in towns and villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kon Tum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable-forward dishes and tofu; many places can accommodate by preparing meat-free versions using local greens and starches.