Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes of the Central Highlands, home to a “miniature Ha Long Bay”. Ta Dung Lake, a hidden gem nestled in Đắk Nông province, awaits you with its pristine and magnificent beauty. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around The World) on an exciting journey to discover this destination, where you’ll not only witness breathtaking scenery but also experience unique activities, savor distinctive local cuisine, and learn about the highland culture. Get ready for an unforgettable trip to Ta Dung now!
Where is Ta Dung – the “Ha Long Bay of the Central Highlands”?
Ta Dung Lake, also known as the Ta Dung Nature Reserve, is located in Đắk Som commune, Đắk Glong district, Đắk Nông province, approximately 45km from the center of Gia Nghĩa city. With over 40 large and small islands rising from the blue lake surface, Ta Dung is likened to the “Ha Long Bay” of the red basalt land, attracting visitors with its unspoiled and poetic beauty.
Ideal Time to Explore Ta Dung
Ta Dung’s weather is distinctly divided into two seasons: the rainy season (from May to October) and the dry season (from November to April of the following year).
- Dry Season (November – April): This is the best time to visit Ta Dung. The weather is sunny and dry, with little rain, making it ideal for travel and sightseeing. During this time, the lake water is clear blue, perfect for activities like boating, SUP paddling, and kayaking.
- Rainy Season (May – October): Ta Dung in the rainy season has its own unique, mystical beauty with fog covering the landscape. However, be aware that roads can be slippery, and some outdoor activities may be limited.
How to Get to Ta Dung
There are several ways to get to Ta Dung, depending on your starting point and preferences:
- Bus: From major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, you can easily find bus routes to Gia Nghĩa. From Gia Nghĩa, you can hire a motorbike or taxi to reach Ta Dung.
- Motorbike/Car (Self-drive): If you enjoy exploring and want to be in control of your time, driving a motorbike or car yourself is a great option. The route is relatively easy to follow, and you can use Google Maps for directions.
- Tour Packages: If you prefer not to worry about transportation and planning, joining a tour package is a convenient solution. Travel agencies often offer all-inclusive tours to Ta Dung from Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces.
Discovering the Beauty of Ta Dung – “Ha Long Bay of the Central Highlands”
Watching the Sunrise over Ta Dung Lake
Sunrise over Ta Dung Lake is one of the most beautiful moments you shouldn’t miss. As the sun begins to rise, golden rays peek through the misty veil, shining down on the tranquil lake surface, creating a magical and shimmering scene.
Boating on the Lake
Experiencing a boat trip on Ta Dung Lake is an essential activity. Sitting on a boat, you will weave through lush green islands, admire the magnificent natural scenery, enjoy the fresh air, and feel a sense of peace and relaxation.
Check-in at Ta Dung Topview
Ta Dung Topview is an eco-tourism area located on a hilltop, where you can admire the panoramic view of Ta Dung Lake from above. Here, you can check-in at many beautiful photo spots such as:
- Stairway to Heaven: A white staircase built on the hillside, pointing straight up to the sky, creating a feeling of stepping into another world.
- Infinity Pool: A swimming pool designed with an overflow edge, creating the illusion that the pool water merges with Ta Dung Lake, offering a unique swimming experience.
- Cafes with Beautiful Views: Enjoying a hot cup of coffee in a romantic setting, overlooking Ta Dung Lake from above is a wonderful experience.
Explore Liêng Nung Waterfall
Liêng Nung Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Đắk Nông, located about 20km from Ta Dung. To reach the waterfall, you have to walk along a trail and climb hundreds of steps. However, the effort will be well rewarded when you witness the majestic beauty of the waterfall cascading down from a height of over 30 meters, creating white foam.
Liêng Nung Waterfall with water cascading down from above, creating a majestic scene
Savoring Ta Dung Cuisine
When you come to Ta Dung, you not only admire the beautiful scenery but also have the opportunity to enjoy the specialties of the highlands:
- Com Lam (Bamboo Rice): Rice cooked in bamboo tubes, offering a fragrant and distinctive flavor.
- Grilled Chicken: Chicken marinated with spices and grilled over charcoal, with crispy skin and tender, sweet meat.
- Wild Meat: Dishes made from wild game such as deer, wild boar, porcupine… prepared into many attractive dishes.
- Ruou Can (Tube Wine): A type of wine brewed in jars, drunk through straws (cần), commonly used in ethnic minority festivals.
- Booth Avocado: A specialty avocado of Đắk Nông, with a rich, creamy, and delicious taste.
Where to Stay in Ta Dung?
In Ta Dung, you can choose from various types of accommodation, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury resorts:
- Homestays: This is a popular choice for many travelers, especially young people. Homestays in Ta Dung often have airy spaces, close to nature, and are reasonably priced.
- Resorts: If you want to enjoy a luxurious and comfortable vacation, a resort is an ideal choice. Resorts in Ta Dung usually have beautiful views, swimming pools, restaurants, and spa and massage services.
- Hotels: In the center of Gia Nghĩa, there are many hotels with various price ranges, suitable for different types of travelers.
Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Ta Dung in 2 Days 1 Night
Day 1:
- Morning: Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ta Dung.
- Noon: Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon: Take a boat trip on Ta Dung Lake, visit Ta Dung Topview.
- Evening: Have dinner and rest at a homestay/resort.
Day 2:
- Morning: Watch the sunrise over Ta Dung Lake, visit Liêng Nung Waterfall.
- Noon: Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon: Buy local specialties, travel back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Notes When Traveling to Ta Dung
- Prepare full personal identification: ID card/Citizen ID, driver’s license (if self-driving).
- Bring appropriate clothing: Comfortable clothes, shoes suitable for walking and hiking.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses: The weather in Ta Dung can be quite sunny.
- Prepare personal medications: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, insect repellent…
- Book accommodation in advance: Especially during peak tourist season.
- Maintain general hygiene: Do not litter indiscriminately.
- Learn about local culture: Respect the customs and traditions of ethnic minorities.
Conclusion
Ta Dung Lake – “Ha Long Bay of the Central Highlands” is an attractive destination, offering visitors unforgettable experiences. With its unspoiled, magnificent beauty, fresh climate, and specialty dishes, Ta Dung promises to be an ideal destination for those who want to explore the beauty of the Central Highlands mountains and forests. Plan your trip today and join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” to discover the interesting things in Ta Dung!