Introduction

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains of Vietnam's Central Highlands, Kon Tum City used to beckon travelers with its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere. Recently, this charming city has been divided into six new wards and communes of Quang Ngai Province.

Kon Tum City

Panoramic view of Kon Tum

History of the old Kon Tum City

Kon Tum City's history stretches back centuries, whispering tales of diverse cultures and resilience. The land was originally home to the Ba Na people, who named the area "Kon Tum," meaning "village by the lake" in their language. This strategic location along the Dak Bla River attracted various ethnic groups like the Gia Rai and Sedang, fostering a rich cultural tapestry.

The arrival of French missionaries in the 1840s marked a turning point. They established a mission here, laying the foundation for the city's development. French influence is evident in the city's architectural style, with the iconic Kon Tum Cathedral standing as a testament to their legacy. Kon Tum officially became a city in 1929 under French rule.

Kon Tum's past also bears the scars of conflict. During the Vietnam War, the city witnessed fierce battles, leaving an indelible mark on its history. Even today, when Kon Tum City no longer exists, it still preserves this wartime legacy as a part of Quang Ngai Province.

Nearby Attractions

Places to visit in the area of old Kon Tum City

Wooden Church:
- Location: Nguyen Hue Street, Kon Tum Ward, Quang Ngai Province.
- Admission Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Highlights: This unique church, constructed entirely of wood in 1913, showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the Ba Na people.

Kon Tum City - Kon Tum Wooden Church

Kon Tum Wooden Church

Kon Tum Museum:
- Location: Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Dak Cam Ward, Quang Ngai Province.
- Admission Fee: ₫20,000 (VND).
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
- Highlights: Delve into the region's fascinating history and culture through the museum's extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and historical documents.

Kon Tum City - Kon Tum Provincial Museum

Kon Tum Museum

Kon K'tu Village:
- Location: Dak Ro Wa Commune, Quang Ngai Province.
- Admission Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Highlights: Experience the authentic way of life of the Ba Na people by visiting Kon K'tu Village, where you can witness traditional handicrafts, participate in cultural activities, and enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Kon Tum City - To Bung Village

Kon K'tu Village

Food

Some must-try local dishes here include:

Ga La Gai: A unique dish made from chicken cooked in banana leaves.
Com Lam: Grilled sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes.
Banh Chung: A traditional Vietnamese rice cake, often served on special occasions.
Ruou can: A potent rice wine fermented in large jars, enjoyed during communal gatherings.
Thit hun khoi: Grilled pork marinated in spices and herbs, offering a tender and juicy texture with a bold and savory flavor.

Read more: Top 10 unique Vietnamese dishes should not be overlooked

Kon Tum City - thit hun khoi

Thit hun khoi

Traveling Cost

Old Kon Tum City offers a relatively affordable travel experience compared to other major tourist destinations in Vietnam. Here's a rough estimate of daily expenses:

Accommodation:

Budget guesthouse: $10-20 per night.
Mid-range hotel: $30-50 per night.
Luxury hotel: $50+ per night.

Food:

Local restaurant: $5-10 per person per meal.
Mid-range restaurant: $10-20 per person per meal.
Fine dining: $20+ per person per meal.

Transportation:

Motorbike rental: $5-10 per day.
Taxi: $2-3 per ride within the city.
Bus: $5-10 per trip to nearby destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Old Kon Tum City welcomes visitors year-round, but to experience its true magic, consider visiting during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers ideal weather conditions for exploration. Days are pleasantly warm and sunny, with minimal rainfall, making outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the national park a delight.

If immersing yourself in vibrant cultural festivities is your desire, consider planning your trip around significant events:

Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Held in February, this week-long celebration explodes with colorful parades, traditional performances, and joyous festivities.
Kon Tum Festival: Taking place in April, this festival showcases the rich heritage of Kon Tum's ethnic groups, featuring captivating displays of traditional costumes, music, and dance.

Best time to visit Kon Tum City

Best time to visit

How to get there

This part of Quang Ngai Province is easily accessible by various transportation options, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your budget and preferences:

By Bus: This budget-friendly option offers regular connections from major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. The journey takes several hours, depending on your departure city.
By Train: While Kon Tum Ward itself doesn't have a train station, the nearest station is located in Gia Lai Province, roughly 50 kilometers away. Taxis and buses are readily available from Pleiku to take you to Kon Tum City.
By Plane: Flying offers the quickest option. The closest airport is Pleiku Airport, which has domestic flights from major Vietnamese cities. Upon arrival, taxis and pre-booked car rentals can take you to the old Kon Tum City.

Conclusion

Kon Tum City used to be a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Vietnam. With its captivating natural beauty, Kon Tum City, or now should we call it a part of Quang Ngai Province, offers an unforgettable journey filled with cherished memories.

Explore Quang Ngai Province and other captivating destinations in Vietnam with Asia King Travel. Our dedicated team of experts will tailor a personalized travel itinerary to suit your interests and budget, ensuring an unforgettable journey.