Let tourism in Kbang take off.

(NLĐO) - Tourism in Kbang is gradually establishing itself on the tourism map with its many majestic natural landscapes and unique culture.

Kbang District in Gia Lai Province attracts tourists with its pristine mountain and forest beauty, majestic waterfalls, and unique local culture.

Nature's bounty

In early November, I set off from the center of Pleiku city, following National Highway 19 to explore Kbang district, Gia Lai province – also known as the "green gem of the Central Highlands". After about two hours of driving, crossing mountain passes, rolling hills, lush green sugarcane fields, and endless eucalyptus forests, I arrived in Kbang district.

This region is exceptionally blessed by nature, a convergence of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and vast nature reserves.

Kbang district is famous for its many beautiful waterfalls such as: Hang En waterfall (also known as K50 waterfall), Kon Bong waterfall (also known as the three-tiered waterfall), Hang Doi waterfall, Le Kim waterfall...

Among them, Hang En Waterfall is considered a "masterpiece of nature amidst the vast forest". Located not far from the center of Kbang district, this waterfall is an unmissable highlight on any trip to Kbang. With its white water cascading from a height of 50 meters into the clear stream, Hang En Waterfall creates a magnificent and pristine scene amidst the vast old-growth forest.

The lush forest surrounding Hang En Waterfall and the sound of cascading water create an incredibly peaceful natural setting, perfect for those seeking tranquility and relaxation - Photo by Phan Nguyen.

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hang En Waterfall, Ms. Nguyen Thi Le Hang was amazed by the stunning beauty of the waterfall. “I never thought there could be a place in the Central Highlands as beautiful as this fairyland amidst the mountains and forests. Waking up in the forest, hearing the birds singing, the stream flowing, and breathing in the fresh air made me feel refreshed and love nature more than ever,” Ms. Hang shared.

Besides its uniquely beautiful waterfalls, Kbang district also has many other attractive tourist destinations such as: Kon Ka Kinh National Park, one of the largest national parks in the Central Highlands, home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in Vietnam; Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve with its wild beauty, home to hundreds of rare plant and animal species; and villages that still preserve the rich culture of the Ba Na people...

In particular, thanks to being surrounded by primeval forests, the climate in Kbang district is cool all year round, and the air is very fresh, erasing all the worries and anxieties of the bustling city, allowing you to enjoy a feeling of comfort and relaxation.

Developing ecotourism in conjunction with nature.

With its cultural advantages and being part of the Kon Ha Nung plateau – recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2021 – the district has become a sustainable ecotourism destination, linked to the conservation and promotion of the unique natural and cultural values ​​of the local people.

Over the years, many Ba Na people have gradually changed, shifting from agriculture to tourism. According to Mr. Dinh Van Nhu, head of Kon Bong village, Dak Krong commune, Kbang district, the Ba Tang waterfall, located 1km from the village, is an attractive destination for tourists. Since the beginning of 2024, Kon Bong village has welcomed more than 40 groups of visitors, each consisting of 20 to 30 people, to visit the Ba Tang waterfall.

The peaceful villages of the Ba Na people are located in Kbang district.

After enjoying themselves at the waterfall, groups wishing to explore and experience the unique culture of the Ba Na people are offered accommodation in houses prepared by the villagers. "The villagers raise free-range chickens, black pigs, and grow pineapples without buds to serve tourists. In addition, we maintain training for the gong and drum ensemble and the traditional dance troupe to perform when tourists request it," said Mr. Nhu, adding that over 20 households in the village participate in serving tourists.

Mr. Nguyen Hong Quan, Deputy Director in charge of Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve, introduced the Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve, which has more than 20 waterfalls that could be developed for tourism.

Tourists can participate in trekking activities, exploring the old-growth forests, waterfalls, and majestic landscapes of the plateau. "Investing in tourism is an opportunity to promote the Kon Ha Nung Plateau to domestic and international organizations," Mr. Quan said.

Besides its stunning natural landscapes, Kbang district is home to many ethnic minority groups, including the Ba Na community with its unique traditional cultural values. The Central Highlands gong culture – an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO – is an important part of the life of the Ba Na people here.

The Ba Na people still maintain traditional festivals such as the new rice harvest festival, the water source worship ceremony, the ancestral tomb abandonment ceremony, and customs related to beliefs and community life, creating a rich and diverse cultural identity.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen's family, tourists from Hanoi, had an enjoyable two-day trip exploring Kbang district. "The long journey was well worth it; the scenery is magnificent, and the people are warm and hospitable," said Ms. Huyen.

Implement various activities for tourism.

Mr. Nguyen Van Hoan, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Gia Lai province, said that the province is implementing many community-based tourism and ecotourism activities to create sustainable livelihoods for ethnic minorities living around the forest buffer zone. The province is also implementing a plan to promote the value of the Kon Ha Nung Plateau with specific activities to enhance the economic value for local people.

To be more specific, Gia Lai province has established the Kon Ha Nung Plateau Biosphere Reserve Management Board to implement these contents.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/dua-du-lich-kbang-cat-canh-196241103104250521.htm