Nestled amid the sunny and breezy landscapes of Kon Tum, the town of Mang Den showcases a diverse ecosystem and a refreshing atmosphere that radiates a pure and rustic allure. Situated on the Kon Plong District plateau, it's about 60 kilometers from Kon Tum City, the capital of the remote Central Highlands province.
Often likened to a mini Da Lat, Mang Den stands out for its primeval forests, lakes, waterfalls, pine forests, and notably cool climate. This charming town presents a peaceful retreat, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best Time To Visit Mang Den
The best time to visit Mang Den is during the winter months, from October to December. During this period, Kon Tum is celebrated for its cold yet sunny weather and dry conditions, offering an ideal setting for outdoor exploration. The onset of the New Year is marked by the blooming of mai anh dao (prunus cesacoides) or cherry-like apricot blossoms, adding a splash of color to the landscape, though the exact timing of the blooms can vary with the weather.
Mang Den's floral spectacle continues throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique display. Visitors in February can admire the mimosa and bauhinia flowers, while the purple phoenix flowers make their appearance in March or April. As the seasons change, myrtle flowers then take the spotlight, ensuring that Mang Den remains a picturesque destination year-round.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Mang Den is not just about natural beauty; it's a place where history and culture come alive. This area is home to several ethnic communities, each with its unique traditions and practices. Throughout the year, visitors can experience vibrant festivals that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the region. These events are a fantastic way to learn about local customs and participate in community celebrations.
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Things to do in Mang Den, Kon Tum
Pa Sy Waterfall Ecotourism Area
The Pa Sy Waterfall Ecotourism Area is a must-visit for those exploring Mang Den. It offers visitors a comprehensive experience with its network of paths, communal houses, handicraft workshops, cultural galleries, and vegetable and flower farms. At the heart of this area lies the Pa Sy Waterfall, standing majestically at an altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level.
This natural wonder is the result of the confluence of the three largest streams in Mang Den and is known locally as Pau Suh, meaning "three-source stream." The area invites guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Garden of Wooden Statues
In 2013, a special place was created near the Pa Sy Waterfall, covering more than 1 hectare of forest. It's called the Garden of Wooden Statues. Here, you can walk along paths and see 100 wooden statues. These aren't just any statues; they were made by 33 artists from local ethnic minority groups. Each statue shows different scenes from life in the North Central Highlands.
You'll see statues of men chopping wood, people hunting, women making rice, and even folks playing music or enjoying canned wine, which is a traditional drink made from fermented rice. There are also statues of animals that are important to the local culture, like birds and elephants. This garden is a beautiful way to see how people live and what matters to them.
Khanh Lam Pagoda
Khanh Lam Pagoda is another must-see place. It sits high up, 1,200 meters above sea level, and covers 10 hectares. To get there, you climb over 200 stone steps starting from the bottom of a hill. These steps take you through a traditional gate called a tam quan gate, which has three aisles. When you reach the top, you find the pagoda surrounded by trees.
The main building is really interesting because it mixes the design of traditional pagodas with local houses, showing the area's unique style. Around the main hall, there's a bell tower, a drum tower, a huge 17-meter statue of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, and a pond that looks like a lotus flower. It's a peaceful place that makes you feel calm and happy.
Picking Fruits and Vegetables on Farms
Mang Den has been earmarked by Kon Tum province for the development of high-tech farms, with a focus on producing clean and fresh fruit and vegetable products. Visitors have the unique opportunity to pick fruits and vegetables directly from the gardens, engaging in an authentic farm-to-table experience.
The variety of produce available for picking includes oranges, pomelo, avocados, tomatoes, strawberries, cantaloupes, and even flowers like chrysanthemums and lilies. Notably, these farms do not impose an entrance fee for picking, although charges apply for those wishing to take their harvest home.
Recommended farm locations for this enriching experience are E Ban Farm, Orfarm, Biophap, Mang Den Xanh Farm, Tam An Organic Farm, and Hung Ly Garden. These sites not only offer a chance to engage with local agriculture but also to appreciate the region's commitment to sustainable and high-quality food production.
Statue of Our Lady of Mang Den
Standing tall at 32 meters, this statue is not just a sight to behold but also a famous spiritual destination in the area.
This impressive statue is one of the tallest of its kind, making it a landmark for both tourists and locals alike. It represents a significant spiritual symbol for many people, offering a place for reflection, prayer, and peace.
Visitors come here not only to admire the statue's size and beauty but also to experience the tranquil and sacred atmosphere that surrounds it. The area around the statue is often quiet, allowing individuals to have a moment of solitude or to just enjoy the serene environment.
Dak Ke Lake
In the center of Mang Den Town lies Dak Ke Lake, also referred to as Toong Ro Poong Lake, covering an area of approximately 3 hectares. The lake has been developed to offer a variety of entertainment services, such as boating, fishing, and dining, enhancing the visitor experience.
Additionally, buffalo-drawn and horse-drawn carriages are available for rent, allowing guests to explore the lake's surroundings in a unique and leisurely manner. The area is particularly enchanting during the summer when purple phoenix trees bloom, while in winter, the landscape is adorned with mai anh dao blossoms.
Top foods in Mang Den
Banh canh ca loc (Snakehead fish thick noodle soup)
The noodle soup is crafted from rice flour, accompanied by steamed snakehead fish. The fish fillet is separated and complemented by green onions, coriander, laksa leaves, and chili peppers. One remarkable characteristic of banh canh ca loc is the individual cooking method. Each serving is cooked in its pot, ensuring the soup remains piping hot with a continuous boil. Diners can add prostrate knotweed to the soup and relish this combination. One place to try the soup is Mang Den Market.
Xuyen Tieu hot pot
Xuyen Tieu hot pot with pepper is a dish perfectly suited for Mang Den's chilly weather. The hot pot is prepared with a medley of vegetables and fruits, infused with flavorful herbs like goji berries and dried red apples. The broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a natural and delightful sweetness.
Xuyen Tieu hot pot is served like a Sichuan hot pot, featuring two compartments with distinct flavors. One side features a hot and spicy broth, infused with the flavor of Xuyen Tieu, a wild pepper variety. The other side offers a cool and rich bone broth. The hot pot is served with a selection of dishes such as fish, shrimp, chicken, or beef, along with mushrooms and fresh green vegetables. To savor the full essence of the dish, diners are encouraged to taste the spicy broth first.
Dried bamboo shoot chicken salad
Dried bamboo shoot chicken salad combines two key ingredients, chicken and dried bamboo shoots, with peanuts, mint, onion, and carrot. This dish, though reminiscent of other salads, still surprises diners with its blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Grilled Chicken and Com Lam (Rice in Bamboo Tube)
Grilled chicken with com lam is a must-try dish when visiting Mang Den. This local favorite uses free-range chickens, which are marinated with wild pepper leaves, onions, lemongrass, chili, and other spices before being grilled over hot charcoal.
The process takes about 20 to 30 minutes, resulting in crispy, golden skin and tender, aromatic meat. It's typically served with com lam, sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes, and accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce made from peanut salt or sesame.
How to Get to Mang Den?
From Hanoi:
By Air: The most practical option for travelers from Hanoi, given the distance of approximately 1,100 kilometers, is to fly. The closest airport is in Pleiku, Gia Lai Province, about 100 kilometers away from Mang Den. The drive from Pleiku to Mang Den typically takes around 2 hours. This method is recommended for its time efficiency and convenience.
From Ho Chi Minh City:
By Car: For those starting their journey in Ho Chi Minh City, driving is a viable option. The journey along Highway 14 covers about 600 kilometers and takes travelers through various provinces including Binh Phuoc, Dak Nong, Dak Lak, and Gia Lai. This route offers the opportunity to experience the scenic beauty and diversity of Vietnam's landscapes.
By Bus: An alternative to driving is to take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City's Eastern Bus Station. Several operators, such as Long Van, Minh Quoc, Phong Phu, and Phuong Thu, offer services to Mang Den with fares ranging between VND 250,000 to VND 450,000 ($10.63 to $19.13). The bus journey is approximately 10 to 12 hours long, providing a budget-friendly and convenient option for travelers.
Local Transportation in Kon Tum City:
Once in Kon Tum City, visitors have several options to reach Mang Den, including taxis, buses, and self-driving cars. It's essential to note the roads to Mang Den are steep and winding, so driving with caution is important for safety.
Travel Tips and Best Practices
Getting around Mang Den is easy, but it's always good to plan ahead. Renting a bike or motorbike can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. When visiting, remember to respect the natural environment and the local communities.
This means following guidelines for sustainable tourism, like disposing of trash properly and supporting local businesses. By doing so, you ensure that Mang Den remains a beautiful and welcoming place for future visitors.
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