Kha Y Tran Mang Den is often referred to as the “second Da Lat” on Vietnam’s tourism map. Thanks to its cool, mild climate and pristine mountain landscapes, Mang Den easily captivates travelers from the very first visit. Unlike crowded destinations, this highland town still preserves its untouched beauty. As a result, it offers a peaceful and refreshing escape from busy city life.
Introduction to Mang Den
Mang Den is a small town located in Kon Plông District, Kon Tum Province, covering an area of approximately 148.07 km². Notably, it sits at an altitude of over 1,200 meters above sea level, which gives the area a cool climate all year round. In addition, frequent mist and fresh mountain air further enhance its charm.
Although Mang Den boasts stunning scenery and pleasant weather, it remains relatively undeveloped and quiet. For this reason, it has earned the poetic nickname “the sleeping muse in the middle of the great forest.”
How to Get to Mang Den
Depending on your starting point, there are several convenient ways to travel to Mang Den.
1. By Airplane
Currently, Mang Den does not have its own airport. Therefore, travelers from major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Can Tho usually fly to Pleiku Airport (Gia Lai Province).
After that, Mang Den is about 100 km away, which takes roughly 2 hours by road. At this point, visitors can choose taxis, buses, or private shuttle services to complete the journey.
2. By Coach (Sleeper Bus)
Alternatively, traveling by coach is one of the most popular options. This is because it offers affordable prices while allowing passengers to rest comfortably before exploring Mang Den.
Based on your departure city, you can choose the following bus operators:
- Phượng Thu: Ho Chi Minh City–Mang Den, Da Nang–Mang Den, Hanoi–Mang Den
- Cúc Tùng: Nha Trang – Mang Den
- Hoa Lễ: Quy Nhon – Mang Den
- Hiệp Dũng: Buon Ma Thuot – Mang Den
- Tuấn Anh: Da Lat – Mang Den
- Tân Niên: Vung Tau – Mang Den3. By Private Vehicle
For those who love adventure or independent travel, using a motorbike or car is an ideal choice. In this case, simply follow Google Maps and begin your journey.
Along the way, travelers can admire majestic mountain passes, untouched forests, and breathtaking landscapes. Most importantly, routes through Violak Pass or the Truong Son mountain range highlight just how powerful and beautiful Vietnam’s nature truly is.
Accommodation in Mang Den
As Mang Den is a small town, it does not yet have many large hotels.
- Golden Boutique Hotel (4-star): Features 63 well-equipped rooms with balconies, large windows, and a swimming pool.
- Dak Ke Mang Den Hotel (3-star): Includes 4 villas, a traditional stilt house, and two hotel blocks with 45 rooms.
Meanwhile, homestays remain the most popular accommodation option. In general, prices range from 300,000 to 800,000 VND per room per night, while dorm beds cost around 150,000–250,000 VND.
Some notable options include Toki Homestay, Paradiso, May Lang Thang, and Sun Homestay.
Famous Tourist Attractions in Mang Den
Unlike Da Lat, which has been heavily commercialized, Mang Den still retains its original charm. Specifically, it offers primeval forests, waterfalls, lakes, cool weather, local cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere.
1. Kon Pring Community Tourism Village
Located in the heart of the Central Highlands, Kon Pring Village is home to ethnic minority communities. In particular, the village is famous for its traditional Rong houses and simple wooden homes.
When visiting, travelers can experience authentic indigenous culture through stilt houses, gong performances, and traditional rice wine (ruou can).
2. Pa Sy Waterfall
Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, Pa Sy Waterfall is formed by three of the largest streams in Mang Den. Despite its strong flow, the waterfall remains peaceful and refreshing.
As a result, visitors can relax, take photos, or even try activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) nearby.
3. Dak Ke Lake
Originally, Dak Ke Lake was known as Toong Rơ Poong Lake and covers nearly 3 hectares. Surrounded by pine trees and mountains, the lake offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
Especially during spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the lake. At the same time, visitors can enjoy boating, water cycling, or quiet walks.
4. Khanh Lam Pagoda
As a spiritual landmark, Khanh Lam Pagoda is one of Mang Den’s most important symbols. Located on a primeval hill at 1,200 meters, the pagoda sits peacefully among lush green forests. Consequently, it provides a sense of serenity and reflection.
Mang Den Cuisine
In terms of food, Mang Den’s cuisine is rich and deeply influenced by Central Highlands culture. Most notably, grilled chicken with bamboo-tube rice (com lam) is a must-try dish.
Besides that, travelers should also sample local specialties such as sturgeon hotpot, spicy Sichuan-style hotpot, and snakehead fish noodle soup.
Interesting Activities in Mang Den
In addition to sightseeing, Mang Den offers a wide range of memorable activities.
1. Farm Harvesting Experience
First of all, local farms grow various fruits such as oranges, avocados, and strawberries. By visiting farms like Tam An Organic Farm or Ê Ban Farm, travelers can pick and enjoy fresh fruit on-site.
2. Cloud Hunting in Mang Den
Without a doubt, cloud hunting is a highlight of any Mang Den trip. Typically, early mornings or late afternoons reveal floating seas of clouds.
For the best experience, visit Yen Café, Duc Me Hill, or Viring Village.
3. Sunset Watching
While mornings are perfect for clouds, evenings are ideal for sunsets. As the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, the sky transforms into shades of pink and orange.
Because of this, sunset moments in Mang Den leave a lasting impression. Popular spots include Duc Me Hill and Area 37 Households.
4. Visiting the Weekend Market
Finally, the Mang Den weekend market reflects the cultural identity of local ethnic groups. Here, visitors can enjoy gong dances, traditional performances, and handmade products, making the experience both lively and authentic.
Explore More of Vietnam
Beyond Mang Den, Vietnam offers many iconic destinations such as Hoi An, Ha Giang, and Sapa. Therefore, take time to explore the country further and discover the diverse beauty of this S-shaped nation.
Official Vietnam Tourism website: https://vietnam.travel/
Hastag
#MangDen #VietnamTourism #KonTum #secondDaLat
Quynh Bui 
