Thuong Kon Tum Lake: Overview, Things To Do & Travel Guide

With its serene waters, Thuong Kon Tum Lake, also known as the Thuong Kon Tum Hydropower Reservoir, beckons both tourists and photography enthusiasts. This serene hydropower reservoir in Kon Tum City is perfect for boating, fishing, and nature photography. Surrounded by lush greenery and cultural landmarks, the lake stands as a testament to Vietnam's eco-tourism potential, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences. In this guide, explore beyond the ordinary, uncovering hidden facets and insider tips on making the most of your visit. Discover the best time to visit, explore nearby attractions, and see why Thuong Kon Tum Lake deserves a spot on your travel list.

Overview of Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is a semi-artificial reservoir formed by the Thuong Kon Tum Hydropower Project on the Dak Snghe River. The 17-kilometer-long lake spans 20 km² and holds 145 million m³ of water, managed by a 75-meter-high dam. This reservoir is crucial for electricity generation, irrigation, flood control, and supporting local agriculture and water supply.

Commissioned in 2021, the hydropower plant has a capacity of 220 MW, powered by two 110 MW turbines, producing around 850 GWh annually. As Kon Tum’s largest hydropower project, it helps regulate water, easing floods and droughts in the Central Highlands.

The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, with emerald-green waters dotted by small islands and submerged pine trees along its banks, creating a unique and striking landscape. This natural phenomenon of ivory-white submerged pine trees adds a mysterious charm to the lake, making it a captivating sight for visitors. The area supports diverse flora and fauna, including endemic plants, carp, perch, and experimental farming of temperate fish like sturgeon and salmon. The surrounding forests are habitats for various bird species and small mammals, enhancing the lake’s ecological importance.

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is a rising eco-tourism spot with boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and camping. You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while exploring the lake’s scenic beauty, including small islands and streams weaving through ravines. Nearby cultural experiences include visiting the villages of the Xo Dang ethnic minority nestled on the mountainsides, providing insight into local traditions. Additionally, natural landmarks like the Ro Xia waterfall upstream add to the area’s allure.

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is 45 km from Kon Tum City and 15 km from the eco-tourism town of Mang Den. It is accessible via National Highway 14. The nearest major airport is Pleiku Airport in Gia Lai Province, roughly a two-hour drive from Kon Tum City. From Kon Tum City, local transport options connect visitors to the lake, making it reachable for travelers from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

Thuong Kon Tum Lake submerged pine trees, and lush scenery, making it an emerging eco-tourism spot for boating, fishing, and cultural exploration

4 things to do when visiting Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Thuong Kon Tum Lake offers a diverse range of activities that appeal to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for peaceful relaxation. Its stunning natural setting, combined with cultural richness, makes it a memorable destination in Kon Tum Province.

1. Take a scenic boat ride on the lake

Exploring Thuong Kon Tum Lake by boat is one of the most popular ways to experience its tranquil beauty. Stretching nearly 17 kilometers, the lake provides ample space for various watercraft activities. You can rent paddle boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards (SUP) from local operators to navigate the calm waters at their own pace. For a more immersive experience, guided boat tours are available, offering insights into the lake’s hydropower history, ecological significance, and surrounding landscapes. These tours often include stops to admire the unique ivory-white submerged pine trees and small islands scattered across the lake. The calm and safe waters make it ideal for beginners and families, while the scenic views of lush forests and rolling hills enhance the experience.

SUP on Thuong Kon Tum Lake lets you explore its calm waters, unique submerged pine trees, and beautiful landscapes

2. Enjoy fishing with locals

Fishing enthusiasts will find Thuong Kon Tum Lake a rewarding destination. The lake is home to a variety of fish species such as snakehead, carp, catfish, and perch. Residents also farm temperate fish like sturgeon and salmon, thanks to the lake’s stable low water temperatures. The best fishing times are early morning and late afternoon when fish are most active. Using natural bait is recommended to increase the chances of a catch. Visitors should obtain a local fishing permit, which supports sustainable fishing practices and helps maintain the lake’s ecological balance. Fishing alongside local fishermen offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to learn traditional techniques.

3. Visit the local Bahnar and Sedang Villages

The lake region is home to ethnic minorities, notably the Xo Dang people, whose traditional villages dot the nearby mountainsides. Visiting these villages provides insight into local customs, crafts, and ways of life, enriching the travel experience with cultural depth. Interacting with local communities provides insight into their connection with the lake and forests, while also offering traditional cuisine and handicrafts. Exploring these villages also allows you to witness unique cultural practices, such as traditional farming techniques and vibrant festivals, that have been passed down through generations.

4. Capture many beautiful moments at Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is a paradise for photographers, offering dynamic lighting and diverse subjects. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Sunrise shots are best captured from the eastern shores, where soft pastel hues and morning mist create ethereal scenes. Sunset photography is ideal from the western banks, capturing the warm glow reflecting on the water. Elevated viewpoints north of the lake provide panoramic vistas perfect for landscape shots.

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views, misty mornings, and panoramic landscapes

You can enhance their work by using filters to manage light and employing composition techniques such as the rule of thirds and leading lines. Wildlife photography is rewarding here, especially for birdwatchers with telephoto lenses capturing kingfishers, egrets, and other species. Macro photography enthusiasts can focus on the intricate details of indigenous plants, while spotlighting techniques help highlight flora and fauna in shaded forest areas.

Operating hours and entrance fees of Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Thuong Kon Tum Lake, as a semi-artificial hydropower reservoir and natural attraction, does not have officially fixed opening hours like a traditional tourist site, so you should ask the locals or the management of that place to know. Visitors can generally access the lake area throughout the day, from early morning until evening, to enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing.

Regarding entrance fees, there is no official admission charge to visit Thuong Kon Tum Lake itself. However, some organized tours or specific activities like guided boat trips, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or camping may have associated costs. For example, SUP and camping tours offered by local operators typically cost around 1,150,000 VND (approximately USD 50) per person for a 2-day, 1-night package that includes equipment rental, meals, and guide services.

Visitors are advised to check with local tour providers or accommodation hosts for any fees related to specific activities or services. Since the lake is part of a hydropower project, access to certain areas may be regulated for safety reasons, so guided tours are recommended for a safe and informative experience.

Best time to visit Thuong Kon Tum Lake

The best time to visit Thuong Kon Tum Lake is from December to March, during the cool, dry season, perfect for boating, fishing, and hiking. During these months, the skies are clear, temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, and the lake’s calm waters provide perfect conditions for exploration and photography. The wet season, from April to November, brings frequent rain and higher humidity, which can disrupt travel plans but also makes the surrounding forests lush and vibrant, especially in the early wet months (May to July). Visitors during the dry season can also enjoy local cultural events such as the Lunar New Year celebrations in nearby Kon Tum City, adding a festive atmosphere to their trip. Overall, planning your visit between December and March ensures the most comfortable and rewarding experience at Thuong Kon Tum Lake.

The best time to visit Thuong Kon Tum Lake is from December to March, offering clear skies, mild temperatures, and ideal for outdoor activities and photography

How to get to Thuong Kon Tum Lake?

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is located in Kon Tum Province, about 45 kilometers southwest of Kon Tum City and 15 kilometers from Mang Den. You can be guided to this lake when participating in the Mang Den retreat tour. You can reach the lake through various modes of transportation, including flights, buses, cars, and motorbikes. Below is a detailed breakdown of each option, including average costs.

By airplane

The nearest airport to Thuong Kon Tum Lake is Pleiku Airport (PXU) in Gia Lai Province, approximately 50 kilometers from Kon Tum City. Flights to Pleiku are available from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi:

• Ho Chi Minh City to Pleiku: Flights cost between VND 1,141,000 and VND 3,600,000 (approximately USD 48 - 150) for a one-way economy ticket. The flight duration is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Hanoi to Pleiku: Flights range from VND 1,368,000 to VND 2,648,000 (approximately USD 57 - 110) for a one-way economy ticket. The flight duration is about 1 hour and 35 minutes.

From Pleiku Airport, travelers can take a taxi or bus to Kon Tum City for around VND 500,000-700,000 (approximately USD 20-30), depending on the type of vehicle. From Kon Tum City, local transportation options such as taxis or motorbikes can take you to the lake.

By bus

Buses are an affordable option for reaching Kon Tum City from various locations in Vietnam:

• Ho Chi Minh City to Kon Tum: Sleeper bus tickets cost between VND 600,000 and VND 750,000 (approximately USD 25-31) for a journey lasting around 12-14 hours.
• Hanoi to Kon Tum: Sleeper buses charge around VND 550,000 to VND 750,000 (approximately USD 23-31) for a trip that takes approximately 15 hours.
• Da Nang to Kon Tum: Buses cost around VND 300,000-400,000 (approximately USD 12-17) for a journey lasting about 6-7 hours.

Once in Kon Tum City, local buses or taxis can take you closer to Thuong Kon Tum Lake. Buses from Kon Tum to Mang Den cost about VND 50,000-100,000 (approximately USD 2-4), and from there, you can hire a taxi or motorbike to reach the lake.

Thuong Kon Tum Lake is accessible via various transportation options and is included in the Mang Den retreat tour

By car or motorbike

Traveling by car or motorbike offers flexibility and allows visitors to enjoy the scenic highland landscapes en route:

• Car rental: Renting a car in Vietnam typically costs between USD 25 and USD 100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle. A private car from Pleiku Airport or Kon Tum City to Thuong Kon Tum Lake may cost around VND 1,500,000-2,500,000 (approximately USD 60-100) for a round trip.
• Motorbike rental: Motorbikes can be rented in Kon Tum City for around VND 120,000-160,000 per day (approximately USD 5-7). The ride from Kon Tum City to Thuong Kon Tum Lake takes about an hour and offers stunning views of pine forests and mountains.

Other attractions to visit from Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Kon Tum is a land of rich culture and breathtaking natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to explore authentic highland life. Traditional villages, farms, and rice terraces offer unique experiences tied to local traditions and the serene Central Highlands landscape.

Kon Tu Ma Village

Kon Tu Ma Village is a picturesque and culturally rich destination in the Kon Tum region, nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. The village is home to the Ba Na ethnic group, who have lived here for generations, preserving their unique customs, architecture, and way of life. Kon Tu Ma is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and the gentle flow of the Dak Bla River, creating a tranquil and scenic environment. You can admire traditional stilt houses with intricate carvings and the iconic Rong house, symbolizing the Ba Na community’s unity and heritage. The village is known for its festivals, music, and crafts, where visitors can join local artisans in weaving, woodcarving, and daily activities. Kon Tu Ma is the perfect destination for an authentic, immersive experience in the Central Highlands, showcasing the region's natural beauty and cultural richness.

Kon Tu Ma Village offers an immersive experience in Ba Na culture, with traditional stilt houses, festivals, and scenic views of forests and the Dak Bla River

E Ban Farm

E Ban Farm is a spacious and inviting destination for nature lovers and those interested in sustainable agriculture. Covering more than 30 hectares, the farm is set amidst the cool, misty climate of Mang Den, surrounded by pine forests and verdant hills. E Ban Farm is renowned for its extensive coffee and tea plantations, where visitors can learn about the cultivation and processing of these signature Central Highlands products. In addition to coffee and tea, the farm also grows a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, making it a vibrant and colorful place to explore. You can participate in guided tours, join hands-on farming activities, and sample fresh produce straight from the fields. The farm also offers workshops on traditional farming techniques, eco-friendly practices, and local cuisine, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural heritage. With its peaceful atmosphere and educational experiences, E Ban Farm is a perfect retreat for families, groups, or anyone looking to connect with nature and local culture.

Kon Tu Rang Rice Terrace

The Kon Tu Rang Rice Terrace is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the Kon Tum region, celebrated for its spectacular landscape and deep cultural significance. Carved by generations of farmers, these terraced rice fields create a stunning tapestry that shifts from vibrant green to golden yellow with the seasons. The terraces highlight the ingenuity and hard work of local communities, serving as a testament to their agricultural traditions and harmony with nature. Visitors to Kon Tu Rang village can trek along winding paths through the terraces, enjoying panoramic views of the mountains, forests, and villages. Travelers may meet friendly locals, witness traditional farming, and learn about rituals and festivals tied to the agricultural calendar. The peaceful beauty and cultural richness of Kon Tu Rang make it a must-visit for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking the authentic charm of the Central Highlands.

The Kon Tu Rang Rice Terrace features breathtaking landscapes and offers an immersive experience in local farming traditions

Travel tips when going to Thuong Kon Tum Lake

Planning a visit to Thuong Kon Tum Lake involves more than just packing your bags. To fully enjoy the tranquility, beauty, and adventure this highland destination offers, consider the following travel tips:

1. Check weather conditions in advance: The weather in the Central Highlands can be unpredictable, especially during the rainy season from May to October. For the best experience, plan your trip during the dry season (November to April) when trails are less slippery and the lake is calmer for boating and camping.
2. Bring appropriate footwear: Hiking forest trails, walking along the lakeshore, and exploring villages, sturdy hiking shoes or trekking sandals are essential. The terrain can be uneven, muddy, or slippery depending on the season.
3. Pack light but smart: Include essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, a light raincoat, and reusable water bottles. If you plan to camp overnight, bring a sleeping bag suited for cool nights and a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
4. Go with a local guide: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for trekking and village visits. Guides not only ensure safety but also enhance your experience by sharing insights about the local culture, flora, fauna, and navigating less-traveled paths.
5. Respect local communities and customs: If you visit nearby Bahnar or Sedang villages, dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and follow local etiquette. Participating respectfully in cultural exchanges helps preserve their traditions and fosters meaningful connections.
6. Bring cash, not just cards: There are limited ATMs and card facilities in remote areas around Thuong Kon Tum Lake. Always carry enough cash for entrance fees, guide services, local meals, or handicraft purchases.
7. Be prepared for limited connectivity: Mobile and internet signals can be weak or nonexistent in some parts of the lake and surrounding forest. Download maps, emergency contacts, and any offline content before arriving.
8. Practice responsible tourism: Leave no trace carry your trash out, avoid disturbing wildlife, and do not pick plants or damage trees. If you’re camping, use eco-friendly products and avoid single-use plastics as much as possible.
9. Start early in the day: Whether you’re boating, hiking, or birdwatching, starting early helps you avoid the afternoon heat and increases your chances of spotting wildlife. Mornings also offer the most magical light over the misty lake.
10. Stay hydrated and snack smart: Trekking and outdoor activities can be physically demanding. Bring enough drinking water and energy-rich snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars to keep your energy up during long excursions.

For a great experience at Thuong Kon Tum Lake, check the weather, pack essentials, hire a guide, respect locals, carry cash, and stay hydrated

Planning a trip to Thuong Kon Tum Lake invites you to experience the untouched beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. With its mirror-like waters, lush forests, and nearby ethnic villages, the lake offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. If you’re boating through tranquil scenery, hiking forested trails, or connecting with local communities, every moment here promises authenticity and serenity. A destination that harmoniously blends nature and tradition, Ho Thuong Kon Tum on tours of Gtrip - Vietnam Travel Agency is sure to leave visitors refreshed and deeply inspired by the landscapes and stories of Vietnam.