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Khanh Hoa Province is not only about Nha Trang and Cam Ranh. Beyond the beautiful beaches and up in the high mountains, you’ll discover another side: cool and untouched. Nicknamed the second Da Lat, Hon Ba Nature Reserve shows a refreshing new dimension to the province’s tourism. Join Asia King Travel in exploring its beauty through our Vietnam travel guide.
A cool and refreshing side of Khanh Hoa in Hon Ba
Hon Ba was discovered by Dr. Alexandre Yersin in 1863. In 1915, he built a research station at an altitude of 1,500 meters on the summit of Hon Ba to study medicinal plants. After his death in 1943, the site was almost forgotten. It wasn’t until 58 years later that Khanh Hoa Province began restoring it and transforming it into a reserve. Hon Ba Nature Reserve was officially established in 2005.
To honor Dr. Yersin, this place is also known as Hon Ba – Yersin
Hon Ba Nature Reserve covers nearly 21,000 hectares across four communes: Khanh Vinh, Khanh Son, Cam Lam, and Dien Khanh of Khanh Hoa Province. The area consists of successive mountain ranges at an altitude of around 1,500 meters above sea level. The reserve is located about 50 kilometers from the former city of Nha Trang (prior to the 2025 administrative change).
From Nha Trang, head south along Hung Vuong Street until you reach National Highway 1A. Then turn right onto Provincial Road 3, near the site of Dr. Yersin’s tomb. Follow Provincial Road 3 and you will find signs directing you to Hon Ba. The 37-kilometer road along Suoi Dau Lake leading up to Hon Ba with its winding curves is sure to satisfy the thrill-seekers who love adventure.
The road to the top of Hon Ba has many winding curves
The climate in Khanh Hoa is quite mild, allowing you to visit at any time of the year. However, it is worth noting that Hon Ba often experiences heavy rainfall. If the roads are slippery and difficult to travel, it’s best to stop at the foot of the mountain instead of continuing to the peak. The high humidity in the forest can also make your visit a bit uncomfortable.
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In Hon Ba, around 255 animal species have been recorded, 59 of which are listed as rare and endangered and in need of conservation. As for plants, there are up to 592 species, many of which were first discovered by Dr. Yersin and are unique to this area, even being named after him.
The black-shanked douc langur is a scarce species
A mild climate and high rainfall have nurtured a thriving ecosystem. You’ll get to explore vast, pristine, and majestic primary forests. All are lush, vibrant, and brimming with life.
Located at the foot of Hon Ba Mountain, Suoi Dau Lake is the first stop before heading up to the nature reserve. Although it is a man-made lake, Suoi Dau still boasts a natural harmony, surrounded by lush green forests and crystal-clear waters.
Suoi Dau Lake adds to the tranquility of the nature reserve
Suoi Nguon is a system of waterfalls and streams, with large and small rocks scattered along the crystal-clear water flow. Its beauty captivates every visitor. Just lift your camera and you’ll capture stunning, picture-perfect shots from every angle. You can immerse yourself in the cool, refreshing water and let it wash away all your fatigue. Just remember to swim only in areas with gentle currents and avoid the waterfall zones.
At the mountain’s summit, you’ll find the house of Dr. Yersin, a talented French physician who devoted all his affection to Vietnam, especially Nha Trang. The wooden house has been reconstructed based on the original design. It’s not an elegant bungalow, but rather a simple two-story wooden home.
Inside the house, there are tables and chairs where he once welcomed guests, along with a small bed in a private corner for him to rest. On the first floor, you’ll find his library and workspace, preserving documents and tools he used during his time here. To honor his memory, an altar has been placed, and it’s almost certain that anyone visiting the house will light a stick of incense to pay their respects.
Dr. Yersin's tea reatreat
Next to his house, a medicinal garden has been replanted with the very herbs the doctor once grew. These were simple medicinal plants he used to treat common illnesses for poor villagers without ever taking any payment.
In Hon Ba, there are guesthouses at the foot of the mountain, but overall, accommodation options are still quite limited. You can also set up a tent for an overnight camping trip. At night, the temperature drops quite low (just like in Da Lat), so be sure to bring enough warm clothes to keep yourself comfortable.
But the eateries on the mountain will satisfy visitors with hearty meals featuring local specialties. Grilled chicken, beef, pork, and goat, prepared with wild forest vegetables, offer a distinctive flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
Hon Ba gives you a touch of Da Lat right after basking in the sun and sea breeze of Nha Trang. Contact Asia King Travel to see just how amazing this country is, on the very Vietnam tour you create for yourself!
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