The Captivating Charm of Kon Tum’s Kon Tu Rang Terraced Fields

Kon Tu Rang terraced fields, nestled in the Kon Tu Rang village district within Mang Canh commune, Mang Den town, offer a breathtaking escape from the bustling city life of Kon Tum province. Located just 10km from the town’s center, Kon Tu Rang boasts a serene and wild beauty that contrasts sharply with the urban noise.

Kon Tu Rang terraced fields are a stunning natural wonder located in the Kon Tu Rang village district, Mang Canh commune, Mang Den town, Kon Tum province. Photo: Hi Mang Den

June and July are the perfect months to visit Kon Tu Rang, as the rice fields are in their full ripening glory, painting the landscape with a vibrant yellow hue. From a distance, the fields blend harmoniously with the surrounding mountains and forests of the Central Highlands, creating a picturesque scene.

Le Ngoc Minh, a local tour guide with a deep affinity for Kon Tu Rang, describes it as a place of unparalleled beauty. “I’m always in awe of the tranquil and dreamy atmosphere that Kon Tu Rang offers,” he shares. “It’s a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.”

June and July are prime months to witness the stunning ripening of the rice fields in Kon Tu Rang. Photo: Le Ngoc Minh

One unique aspect of Kon Tu Rang is the way locals store their rice. Instead of bringing it back to their homes, they keep it in rice warehouses scattered across the fields. This tradition stems from the past when houses were primarily built with wood, bamboo, and thatch, and there was a risk of losing the entire harvest in a house fire.

Due to its geographical location, Kon Tu Rang may not be easily accessible to all visitors. The descent to the fields involves a steep slope with sharp turns, making it challenging for older tourists. Additionally, accommodation services are currently not available in the village itself.

However, for those seeking an immersive experience in nature, Kon Tu Rang offers a tranquil escape. Visitors can explore nearby attractions, such as Mang Den grass Hill, cafes with panoramic views of the Ngoc Le mountain range, or the serene Pa Sy waterfall.

Kon Tu Rang, with its golden rice fields, blends harmoniously with the majestic backdrop of the Central Highlands. Photo: Le Ngoc Minh

Beyond the captivating rice fields, Kon Tum itself holds further allure. Located north of the Central Highlands region, it borders Quang Nam, Gia Lai, and Quang Ngai provinces, as well as sharing borders with Laos and Cambodia. The region boasts a unique climate, with distinct rainy and dry seasons, each offering its own allure.

Kon Tu Rang’s untouched beauty awaits those willing to embark on a journey off the beaten path. Photo: Le Ngoc Minh

To reach Kon Tum, visitors can travel to Pleiku Airport in Gia Lai, approximately 45 km from Kon Tum City. From there, a bus or taxi can be taken to the final destination. For those opting for a bus journey, sleeper buses are available from Ho Chi Minh City to Kon Tum, covering a distance of about 550 km.

In addition to its natural wonders, Kon Tum also delights food enthusiasts with its unique specialties. Leaf salad, featuring a diverse array of forest leaves, is a must-try. The dish is accompanied by boiled meat, shrimp, and pork skin, along with a special dipping sauce made from fermented sticky rice and dried shrimp.

Another renowned delicacy is grilled chicken served with lam rice. Locally raised chickens, known for their firm meat, are grilled to perfection over charcoal flames. Stuffed with wild pepper leaves, onions, lemongrass, and chili, the chicken exudes a mouthwatering aroma.

Grilled chicken, best served hot with crispy skin and fragrant meat, is a culinary delight in Kon Tum. Photo: Live Fully In Vietnam

For those craving a taste of local cuisine, red vermicelli noodle soup is a delicious choice. This flavorful dish typically includes crab, meatballs, and boiled quail eggs, all swimming in a rich broth that gives the vermicelli its distinctive red hue.