Gia Lai – from the blue sea to the majestic great forest – is a magnificent symphony of nature, culture, and the aspiration to rise. Following the expansion of its administrative boundaries, this land Central Highlands is not only the second largest locality in the country by area, but also offers a rare tourism experience where the clear blue ocean meets layers of mountains and forests, and where heritage harmonizes with the rhythm of modern life.

To the East, a 134-kilometer coastline stretches along famous landscapes such as Ky Co, Eo Gio, and Hon Kho – where the blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine weave an endless tapestry. Lagoon ecosystems such as Thi Nai Lagoon and Con Chim still preserve their rich biodiversity. Against this natural backdrop, the quiet Cham towers, relics of the Tay Son dynasty, Vietnamese traditional martial arts, and the Bai Choi art recognized by UNESCO continue the historical flow, creating a distinctive cultural depth.

Heading westward, the basalt highlands reveal another world – vast, majestic, and rich in identity. The legendary Bien Ho, the vibrant flower season on Chu Dang Ya volcano, the pristine beauty of K50 Waterfall, and the ancient forest of Kon Ka Kinh together form a captivating picture of the great forest. In the echoes of gong culture of the Bahnar and Jrai people, amid the aroma of highland coffee and the strong taste of ruou can (straw wine), visitors find a Gia Lai that is authentic, warm, and profound.

The journey from sea to mountains is now conveniently connected, opening a “one journey – two experiences” tourism model. In the morning, immerse yourself in the clear blue sea; in the afternoon, conquer a volcanic mountain; and in the evening, join vibrant festivals – all within a single trip. Gia Lai is building a diverse tourism ecosystem: from coastal resorts, eco-adventure tourism, community-based tourism, agricultural tourism, and local cuisine experiences to sports, spiritual tourism, and film tourism.

Gia Lai – where mountains embrace the sea.

Kon Ka Kinh National Park, located about 60 km northeast of the center of Pleiku, is a representative destination for eco-tourism and trekking in Gia Lai. Boasting diverse topography and a rich primary forest ecosystem, it is home to numerous rare species of flora and fauna typical of the Truong Son mountain range. With its majestic scenery, fresh climate, and outstanding biodiversity value, Kon Ka Kinh is one of 27 national parks in Southeast Asia recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, affirming its important position on the regional eco-tourism map.

Covering nearly 15,900 hectares, Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve is a “green gem” among Gia Lai’s vast forests. Blessed with a rich tropical forest ecosystem, it also boasts some of the most majestic rivers, streams, and waterfalls in the region. Its waterfall system is ranked among the finest in the country, with 12 waterfalls over 10 meters high, the most striking of which is K50 Waterfall (Hang En Waterfall), which plunges down a sheer cliff, creating a spectacular scene. Its pristine beauty and diverse ecosystem make Kon Chu Rang an ideal destination for trekking, deep forest exploration, and ecotourism experiences amid untouched nature.

Chu Nam Mount, rising 1,472 meters above sea level, is known as the “Western rooftop” of the Central Highlands. Located about 30 kilometers from Pleiku’s center, it is regarded as one of the most attractive trekking destinations on Gia Lai’s tourism map – an ideal rendezvous for those who love conquering and exploring nature. From the summit, visitors can admire the panoramic view of the deep blue Bien Ho, the majestic beauty of Chu Dang Ya Volcano, or the tranquil waters of Tan Son Lake in the distance. Chu Nam attracts tourists in both the dry and rainy seasons because of its magnificent and mystical beauty, especially during the cloud-hunting season or the wild sunflower season.

Chu Dang Ya Volcano, located more than 25 km from the center of Pleiku, is the remnant of an extinct volcanic crater with a distinctive funnel-shaped form, covered by lush green fields of sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and lilies growing on fertile red basalt soil. During the dry season (October-December), vibrant yellow wild sunflowers blanket the mountainsides, creating an awe-inspiring landscape. The annual “Wild Sunflower – Chu Dang Ya Volcano Festival” held in mid-November features a series of vibrant cultural activities such as gong performances, brocade weaving, basketry, sculpture carving, folk games, traditional sports, mountain-climbing experiences, hot air balloon releases, paragliding, agricultural fairs, and exhibitions of local cuisine and specialties.

Bien Ho Lake (To Nung Lake, Ia Nueng Lake, Tum Tơnueng Lake, etc.) is the remnant of an extinct volcanic crater formed millions of years ago and an archaeological site reflecting traces of prehistoric inhabitants in Gia Lai Province. It was recognized as a National Scenic Site in 1988. The emerald waters of the lake in the middle of the plateau create a poetic landscape and were selected by the Vietnam Records Organization as one of the five most beautiful lakes in Vietnam in 2014. Welcoming around 150,000 visitors annually, the area is planned to be integrated with Chu Dang Ya Volcano into the Bien Ho – Chu Dang Ya Tourist Area.

Located in Dun commune, about 45 kilometers southeast of Pleiku, Phu Cuong waterfall has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Gia Lai for its pristine, enchanting, and majestic natural charm. With a height of approximately 45 meters, it is an attractive destination for sightseeing and relaxation. The ideal time to visit Phu Cuong waterfall is around September and October, when the falls are at their most beautiful – after heavy rains, the water level rises, rushing down to create foaming white sprays. On sunny days, around 3:00pm, the afternoon sun combined with the cascading water often creates rainbows, and visitors frequently capture beautiful photos at this moment.

Kinh Thien Palace, located in the heart of the An Son Spiritual Tourism Area (Binh Phu commune) amidst romantic mountains and rivers, possesses a sacred beauty, associated with many legends about the Tay Son movement.

The Tay Son Dynasty (1778-1802) was a remarkable yet short-lived era in Vietnamese history. Renowned for its powerful peasant uprisings that toppled entrenched feudal factions, it also achieved resounding victories against foreign invaders. At the heart of this movement were three brothers from Tay Son, Gia Lai – Nguyen Nhac, Nguyen Lu, and Nguyen Hue – whose leadership forged one of the most dynamic dynasties of the time.

The Kinh Thien Palace, located on the highest peak of An Son, was built in the style of a sacred altar for worshipping heaven. Legend has it that this place once bore the footprints of the three brothers Nguyen Nhac, Nguyen Lu, and Nguyen Hue before they established their great empire. Stories about the dragon’s lair and the sword inscribed with the four words “Son ha xa tac” (the Country, its Territory, and Sovereignty) further enhance the legendary atmosphere of the land. A journey to An Son is not only a sightseeing trip but also an opportunity to rediscover the roots of the glorious history of Vietnamese people.

Champa was an ancient kingdom that thrived from 192 to 1832. In the region that once served as its capital, Vijaya, today’s Gia Lai province preserves Vietnam’s most extensive collection of Champa architectural heritage. This remarkable area features 8 tower complexes and 14 ancient brick-and-stone structures, forming a distinctive architectural ensemble steeped in history. Among these, the most outstanding examples include:

Historically, this citadel was the capital of the Champa kingdom, known as Do Ban Citadel. Champa was an ancient state formed in the central region of Vietnam from the 2nd century AD. During its existence and development, the Champa kingdom moved its capital several times, sometimes in northern Champa, and other times in southern Champa. Between the 11th and 15th centuries, the Champa capital was located in Gia Lai (Do Ban Citadel). The Hoang De Citadel relic holds significant cultural and historical value.

Duong Long Tower complex (also known as An Chanh Tower, Binh An Tower, or Nga Tower) was built around the late 12th or early 13th century, featuring a harmonious blend of Cham and Khmer architectural styles. This complex consists of three towers: the central tower is 42 meters high, the southern tower is 36 meters high, and the northern tower is 34 meters high. The tower bodies were built of bricks, with corners joined by large, elaborately carved stones. The Duong Long Tower is the tallest of the remaining Cham towers in Vietnam, boasting a unique architectural style – most notably the patterns and motifscarved directly onto the massive stones. The skillful carving and sculpting create a majestic and opulent yet delicate and graceful effect, with the animals and decorative motifs both vividly realistic and mysteriously fantastical. It is considered one of the most beautiful Cham towers in Vietnam.

Dating back to the late 11th to 12th centuries AD, the Banh It Towers are a quintessential and relatively intact Champa tower complex. It is a beautiful, distinct relic site boasting the largest number of surviving towers, holding unique cultural value within Vietnam’s architectural history, and was ranked as a National Artistic Architectural Relic in 1982. The architecture represents a transition from the My Son A1 style to the Gia Lai style. The complex consists of four structures: the Gate Tower, the Stele Tower, the Main Tower, and the Fire Tower, all built on a large red dirt hill, exuding a majestic and imposing presence. The largest tower stands 22m tall at the hill’s peak, resembling a traditional “Banh It” leaf cake from afar. Surrounding the main tower are three smaller, distinctly styled auxiliary towers, each topped with a stone statue of the god Shiva. Converging multiple architectural styles, Banh It is one of the largest remaining temple complexes of the Champa Kingdom, drawing significant interest from researchers.

Built around the 12th century AD, the Fairy Wing (Canh Tien) Tower is unique for its exterior, where the columns and corners are covered with sandstone slabs carved with swirling patterns. The four corners of the tower’s upper levels are decorated with patterns resembling flying fairy wings. The tower was classified as an architectural and artistic monument in 1982 and is part of a Cham tower complex that was selected by the Vietnam Record Holders Organization as one of the top 10 most visited ancient towers and tower complexes in 2014.

Mo Hra-Dap Community-Based Tourism Village, located in To Tung Commune, is a culturally rich destination of the Bahnar people. The village is home to 226 households, of which about 96% are Bahnar. It impresses visitors with its towering communal house (nha rong) and a traditional lifestyle that is still well preserved through brocade, bambooweaving, and the distinctive gong culture. Images of women skillfully working at weaving looms, village elders crafting bamboo items under shady trees, or festive nights resounding with gongs, graceful xoang dances, and Ting Ning melodies beside traditional rice wine jars create a vibrant cultural experience. Mo Hra-Dap is also regarded as the “leading bird” of Kbang commune for preserving the Central Highlands gong culture – recognized by UNESCO as a Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In addition, local specialties such as salt-crushed chicken with é leaves, bamboo-tube rice (com lam), grilled stream fish, and steamed freshwater shrimp wrapped in banana leaves offer rustic yet unforgettable flavors amid the vast highland forests.

Op Village (known as Plei Op in the Jrai language) is a Jrai ethnic minority village in Pleiku, preserving the unique traditional Jrai culture. The communal house – the soul of the village – is where festivals are frequently held. Here, besides the communal house, visitors can admire the crystal clear, cool Ia Nil stream, along with the picturesque scenery surrounding the village. Visitors can also listen to the village elders tell stories, sing folk songs, or learn about traditional crafts still preserved by the villagers. Furthermore, if arriving at the right time, visitors will truly experience the “spirit” of the village through its festivals rich in local cultural identity.

Gia Lai is not only famous for its majestic natural landscapes but also attractive for its distinctive traditional craft villages, which embody the cultural values of the highlands and coastal regions. Visitors can explore coffee, wild forest honey, pepper, macadamia nuts, ruou can (traditional fermented rice wine), brocade textiles, and ethnic musical instruments of the Ba Na and Jrai people, along with Bau Da liquor, rice paper, nem Cho Huyen, and traditional fish sauce from Gia Lai. Many craft villages such as Ha Ri brocade weaving village, Phu Gia horse-hat village, Nhon Hau fine woodworking village, An Thai Song Than noodles village, Ngom Thung Village, the ethnic musical instrument crafting village, and Breng Village have been preserved through generations. Visiting, experiencing the production process, and shopping for local specialties will make the journey of discovering Gia Lai richer and more deeply rooted in local identity.

Gia Lai is blessed with a stunning 134-kilometer stretch of coastline, home to pristine beaches like Quy Nhon, Quy Hoa, Lo Dieu, and Trung Luong. Beyond its shores, the region also boasts remarkable scenic treasures, including Ghenh Rang – Tien Sa, Cu Lao Xanh island, and Hon Kho island, each offering its own unique charm and natural beauty.

Eo Gio, located in Quy Nhon Dong ward, is a beautiful, arc-shaped blue strait embraced by curving, towering rocky mountains. Dubbed the “paradise of sea breezes,” Eo Gio Quy Nhơn impresses with its pristine and majestic beauty, featuring unique topography, jagged rock formations alongside crystal-clear waters, and a stunningly winding coastal road. It is unknown when, but perhaps born from the admiration of photographers and tourists, Eo Gio has been “crowned” as the place with the most beautiful sunrise in Vietnam. The highlight here is the coastal walking path, often compared to Jeju in South Korea. From here, visitors can freely gaze out at the vast ocean, majestic mountains, crashing waves at their feet, and rocks of all shapes at the end of the path.

Ky Co Beach possesses a pristine, captivating beauty with crystal-blue waters, white sands, and golden sunshine, resembling a picturesque painting that is both poetic and majestic. Often hailed as the “Maldives of Vietnam,” Ky Co is also famously described as being “just one step away from paradise.” It attracts many tourists, especially those who love exploration, offering not only breathtaking scenery but also countless fascinating experiences. This is an ideal destination for beach tourism from February to August, featuring activities such as coral diving, speedboat rides, and delicious fresh seafood. Nature has endowed Ky Co with a breathtaking natural landscape, paired with engaging tourism services that easily steal the hearts of visitors.

A natural masterpiece, this coastal cluster of rocky formations lies about 3 kilometers southeast of Quy Nhơn, where layers of stone rise and overlap to form caves, reefs, and cliffs right beside the sea. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the entire eastern part of Quy Nhon, Phuong Mai Peninsula, Thi Nai Bay, and Green Islet (Cu Lao Xanh). With a cool climate and charming scenery, it was chosen by Emperor Bao Dai as a summer retreat in 1927. At the foot of Ghenh Rang Hill, along the cliffs, there is a unique beach with countless smooth pebbles, also known as Egg Beach or the “Queen’s” Beach. This beautiful beach was once reserved exclusively for Empress Nam Phuong during her visits to Quy Nhon. Beside the hillside lies the resting place of renowned Vietnamese poet Han Mac Tu.

Located just 22km from Quy Nhon, Cu Lao Xanh is a priceless gift bestowed by nature. Upon arrival, visitors are immersed in endless blue seas, blue skies, and a lush green island. Visitors can enjoy watching the sunset from the pier with small boats bobbing on the waves, observing the simple life of the fishing villagers in the peaceful setting of the island’s south side, or exploring the untouched beauty of uniquely shaped rocks alongside the vast, majestic sky, sea, and mountains on the northern part of the island. If Quy Nhon is considered the “paradise of the sea” in Central Vietnam, then Nhon Chau Island, also known as Cu Lao Xanh, is like a hidden gem in the ocean, offering a different kind of beauty: pristine, rustic, and gradually awakening to a new rhythm of life.

Located in Quy Nhon Dong ward, Hon Kho Island acts as a giant natural screen protecting the Nhon Hai fishing village. As an island close to the shore, Hon Kho features rugged rocky mountains reaching out into the sea. Year-round, sea breezes playfully crash into the cliffs, and white-capped waves delight in sculpting the rocks, giving Hon Kho its unique charm. It is an irresistible destination for those who love snorkeling to admire vibrant coral reefs and colorful swimming fish in crystal-clear waters, challenging themselves to conquer the craggy peaks, or simply basking on the golden sand. Visitors to Hon Kho can also explore the Nhon Hai fishing village and savor fresh, delicious coastal seafood alongside a strong, flavorful glass of Bau Da wine.

For thousands of years, gongs have been inseparable from the life and rituals of the Central Highlands. They resonate through every stage of life and community events – from ear-piercing ceremonies for newborns, weddings, funerals, and buffalo sacrifices to water trough worship, new rice harvest celebrations, granary rituals, and communal house inaugurations. Recognized by UNESCO, the Gong Culture Space stands as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Originating from the Bai Choi game – a festive entertainment tradition during Lunar New Year in central provinces from Quang Binh to Khanh Hoa – Bai Choi has become an essential part of the region’s cultural identity. UNESCO has honored Bai Choi as a Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Bình Định is regarded as the greatest cradle of Vietnamese traditional opera. This art form is tied to the legacy of Đào Duy Từ, who laid its foundation, and Đào Tấn, who elevated it to its peak. Tuồng in Bình Định is distinguished by its fusion of singing, dancing, and masterful traditional martial arts, creating a style rich in artistry and cultural depth.

The traditional martial arts of Bình Định are a treasured intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam, born and nurtured alongside the nation’s struggles for building and defending the country. Over centuries of transmission and development, these martial arts have been continuously honed and perfected, evolving into a distinctive cultural identity imbued with the noble spirit of chivalry. Today, Bình Định martial arts – practiced and preserved in Gia Lai province – are officially recognized by the Vietnamese State as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, symbolizing both cultural pride and historical resilience.

Gia Lai’s shrimp pancakes (banh xeo) stand out with a character all their own, unlike the versions found in the Mekong Delta or Hue. Their uniqueness lies in both the ingredients and the preparation: the batter is made from rice grown in Gia Lai, while the shrimps come from the Thi Nai lagoon. These shrimp are tiny – about the size of a little finger – with thin pink shells, firm flesh, and a mild flavor, yet packed with nutrition.

The cooking process is simple but precise. A thin layer of batter is spread on a small pan, shrimp are placed on top along with bean sprouts and chopped scallions, then covered until cooked. The result should be a golden, crispy pancake, fragrant with rice, showcasing fresh pink shrimp and vegetables cooked just right. Traditionally, the pancakes are enjoyed with seasonal vegetables such as cabbage, sprouts, shredded mango, and cucumber, dipped in a special mixed flavor fish sauce. Diners may also wrap the pancake in rice paper for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

This rustic yet refined dish has earned a place among Vietnam’s 100 most distinctive culinary treasures, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Gia Lai to truly savor the essence of the region.

The thorn leaf sticky rice cake is more than just a humble local delicacy – it embodies cultural heritage and stands as a source of pride for the people of Gia Lai.

Shaped like a small cone, the cake features a soft, fragrant outer layer made from sticky rice flour, tinted a gentle green by thorn leaves. Inside lies a sweet filling of creamy mung bean or rich coconut, delicately infused with the subtle aroma of the leaves. Wrapped in fresh banana leaves, the cake exudes rustic simplicity. When enjoyed, it offers a harmonious blend: the sweetness of the filling, the richness of coconut or mung bean, the chewy texture of sticky rice, and the distinctive fragrance of thorn leaves. Traditionally, it is paired with hot tea or coffee, creating a memorable and full-bodied flavor.

For locals, this cake is inseparable from festive occasions, weddings, and ancestral commemorations. Today, thorn leaf sticky rice cake has become a beloved gift, cherished not only by Gia Lai’s residents but also by visitors from afar. Tourists often buy the cakes to savor immediately or take them home as thoughtful presents for friends and family, carrying with them the flavor and cultural essence of the region.

Straw-wrapped tré captivates not only with its distinctive flavor but also with its charming appearance, resembling a small rustic “broom bundle.” Crafted from dried rice straw after harvest, its humble look immediately sparks curiosity.

The main ingredient is pork head meat, carefully cleaned, blanched in salted boiling water to remove odor and whiten, then thinly sliced. It is mixed with a blend of spices: sugar, salt, ground pepper, whole peppercorns, MSG, roasted rice flour, shredded galangal, white sesame seeds, and fish sauce. The mixture is marinated for about an hour to fully absorb the flavors.

The wrapping process is meticulous: guava leaves inside, banana leaves or plastic wrap outside, then covered with straw and tightly bound. Left to ferment for 3-4 days, this multi-layered wrapping not only preserves the tré’s flavor but also allows it to be stored for days, making it especially popular during Tet.

When served, the straw is removed, the meat loosened with chopsticks, and arranged on a plate. Tré is typically enjoyed with fresh herbs, mint, pickled vegetables, roasted peanuts, and dipped in garlic chili fish sauce or chili paste. Pairing tré with grilled rice crackers and a glass of Bau Da wine reveals a full spectrum of flavors – sour, spicy, salty, and sweet – simple yet deeply satisfying, embodying the rustic charm of Gia Lai cuisine.

The Tam Quan pink rice cake is a long-standing delicacy of the martial arts region, cherished not only for its flavor but also for its symbolic meaning. The name “pink” reflects its role in joyous occasions such as weddings, where it represents good fortune and the happiness of a couple’s union.

Traditionally, the cake has an ivory-white hue, from its crust to its filling, crafted from fragrant sticky rice, shredded coconut, and sugar. In modern variations, bakers enrich the recipe with pandan leaf juice or dragon fruit juice, giving the cake a gentle pink or green shade that permeates from the outside in.

True to its reputation as a local specialty, the pink rice cake delights diners from the very first bite. Its distinctive sticky rice aroma, chewy texture, and the creamy richness of shredded coconut combine to create a dessert that is simple yet irresistibly appealing.

Two-bowl pho, or dry pho, is a culinary hallmark of Gia Lai. Unlike the traditional pho soup, this dish comes in two parts: one bowl of blanched pho noodles topped with crispy pork cracklings and minced meat, and another bowl of steaming broth with beef, beef meatballs, or chicken – though the beef version is most popular. It’s typically served with blanched bean sprouts, fresh basil, lettuce, and the indispensable black soy sauce.

To enjoy it, diners mix black soy sauce, chili, and lime into the noodle bowl. Because freshly blanched noodles tend to stick together, a splash of broth helps loosen the strands, making them easier to mix. Each bite delivers a delightful balance – the chewiness of the noodles, the bold depth of the soy sauce, and the sweet, savory richness of the bone broth. Whether savored in a refined restaurant or a humble roadside stall, the broth consistently carries its authentic sweetness drawn from simmered bones and meat.

More than just a dish for visitors, dry pho is woven into the daily rhythm of local life. For many Gia Lai residents, starting the morning with a bowl of dry pho followed by a cup of coffee is a cherished ritual – a simple pleasure that fuels the day ahead.

Bau Da liquor is one of the well-known traditional handmade liquors in Central Vietnam, with a history spanning hundreds of years. Bau Da liquor is distilled from high-quality rice, combined with the clear water from Bau Da well and traditional yeast, creating a distinctive flavor that is rich, clear, and fragrant. The brewing process is entirely manual, from cooking the rice and fermenting the yeast to distilling the liquor in clay pots, requiring the meticulousness and experience of the craftsmen. As a result, the liquor has a high alcohol content but remains smooth, with a sweet and deep aftertaste. Not only a traditional drink during festivals and Lunar New Year celebrations, Bau Da liquor has also become a local specialty that many visitors seek to buy as a gift.