The Central Highlands, a majestic and sacred basalt land, has long been a dream destination for those who love freedom and exploration. This region captivates not only with winding mountain passes and vast primeval forests but also with the diverse cultural identity of its ethnic communities. The echoing sounds of gongs amidst the mountains and forests, traditional Rong houses, and the warm, comforting taste of “com lam” (bamboo-tube rice) are deeply etched in every traveler’s memory. But perhaps, what makes the Central Highlands truly special is the magnificent and mysterious beauty of its waterfalls. Hidden like jade jewels in the vast green wilderness, these waterfalls possess an irresistible allure for anyone who sets foot in this land. Join Discovery Around The Globe to explore the hidden waterfalls in the Central Highlands, where wild and majestic beauty intertwine to create an unforgettable travel experience.
Pongour Waterfall: A Symphony of Nature
Majestic Pongour Waterfall with water cascading from a height of 40m
Pongour Waterfall, also known as the “Seven-Tier Waterfall,” is one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in the Central Highlands. Located on the gentle Da Nhim River, Pongour Waterfall is not just a tourist destination but also a magnificent work of art by nature. With a height of about 40 meters and a width of over 100 meters, the waterfall stretches across 7 unique natural stone tiers, creating a vivid and enchanting watercolor painting.
Visiting Pongour Waterfall, you will be overwhelmed by the majestic and poetic scenery of the Central Highlands mountains and forests. The roaring sound of the waterfall, spraying white foam, blends with the melodious chirping of forest birds, creating a wonderful symphony of nature. The space here is vast and airy, with lush green trees surrounding it, bringing a sense of relaxation, peace, and closeness to nature.
Pongour Waterfall is not only beautiful for its magnificent appearance but also for its rich biodiversity. The area around the waterfall is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, creating a diverse and unique ecosystem. Visitors can spend time exploring the primeval forest surrounding the waterfall, admiring ancient trees, listening to birds singing, and enjoying the fresh, cool air.
To reach Pongour Waterfall, you can travel from Da Lat city along National Highway 20, then turn into Provincial Road 725. The road is quite easy and convenient, suitable for both motorbikes and cars. The best time to visit Pongour Waterfall is during the dry season (from November to May), when the weather is dry and cool, and the waterfall flows more gently. In the rainy season, the waterfall becomes stronger and more turbulent, but the roads can be slippery and more difficult.
Phu Cuong Waterfall: Untamed Beauty in the Wilderness
Phu Cuong Waterfall hidden among large rocks and lush green forest
Phu Cuong Waterfall, a hidden gem in Dun commune, Chu Se district, Gia Lai province, embodies the wild and majestic beauty characteristic of the Central Highlands mountains and forests. The waterfall is located on the Ia Pet stream, a tributary of the Ayun River, before merging into Ayun Ha Lake. Unlike the gentle beauty of Pongour Waterfall, Phu Cuong Waterfall impresses with its strength and ruggedness, with large and small rocks stacked on top of each other at the foot of the falls.
To reach Phu Cuong Waterfall, visitors will have an exciting journey of discovery. From the center of Pleiku city, follow National Highway 14 southeast, passing through the majestic Ham Rong Pass, you will reach the center of Chu Se district. From here, turn left onto National Highway 25 for about 5km, and you will see signs leading to the waterfall. Continue along the winding red dirt road, passing through lush green coffee plantations, and you will reach Phu Cuong Waterfall. The road to the waterfall can be a bit challenging, especially in the rainy season, but this is what creates the appeal and excitement for those who love exploration and adventure.
When you set foot in Phu Cuong Waterfall, you will feel the peace and tranquility of the mountains and forests. The sound of the waterfall is not too loud, but gentle like a melodious piece of music. Surrounding the waterfall are rows of shady old trees and fresh green bushes, creating a green and fresh space. Visitors can freely explore, climb on large rocks, enjoy the cool water, and take beautiful souvenir photos.
Phu Cuong Waterfall is not only an attractive ecotourism destination but also a place that preserves the traditional cultural values of the Jrai ethnic people. Coming here, visitors can learn about the customs and habits, and daily life of the local people, enjoy local specialties, and experience unique cultural features.
Dray Nur Waterfall: A Muse in the Buôn Ma Thuột Wilderness
Magnificent and poetic Dray Nur Waterfall with powerful flowing water
Dray Nur Waterfall, one of the most famous and enchanting waterfalls in Dak Lak, is located about 25km from Buon Ma Thuot city along National Highway 14. The waterfall is likened to a beautiful “muse” hidden in the majestic mountains and forests, offering visitors unforgettable experiences.
To reach Dray Nur Waterfall, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of the winding Central Highlands roads, passing through coffee hills and lush green pepper gardens. The road is quite convenient, easily accessible by motorbike or car. Upon reaching the foot of the waterfall, visitors will be overwhelmed by the majestic and poetic beauty of Dray Nur Waterfall. The waterfall cascades from a height of about 30 meters, spraying white foam, creating a truly impressive scene.
Dray Nur Waterfall is not only beautiful for its main waterfall but also for the system of small streams and rapids surrounding it. The murmuring streams flow through protruding rocks and clear blue pools, creating a diverse and lively natural space. Visitors can stroll along winding trails, explore the beauty of the primeval forest, listen to birds singing, streams murmuring, and enjoy the fresh, cool air.
Dray Nur Waterfall is also associated with a romantic love story between Jun and H’Mi. Legend has it that the two lovers, unable to be together, transformed into the two waterfalls of Dray Nur and Dray Sap (Husband Waterfall). This sad love story has added to the mystical and romantic beauty of Dray Nur Waterfall.
Currently, Dray Nur Waterfall has become a famous tourist destination in the Central Highlands. This place attracts visitors not only with its natural beauty but also with diverse tourist activities such as trekking, camping, kayaking, ziplining, and more. Visitors can freely explore, experience, and enjoy memorable moments at Dray Nur Waterfall.
Trinh Nu Waterfall: Charming Beauty in the Heart of Dak Nong
Gentle and poetic Trinh Nu Waterfall with unique basalt columns
Trinh Nu Waterfall, located right in the center of Ea T’ling town, Dak Nong province, is one of the most gentle and charming waterfalls in the Central Highlands. The waterfall is located in the lower reaches of the Serepok River, not noisy or turbulent like other waterfalls, but peaceful and gentle like its name suggests.
The special feature of Trinh Nu Waterfall is its unique columnar basalt rocks, dating back 2 to 5 million years. These stone columns are scattered in the middle of the river or protruding from the banks, creating an extremely unique and impressive natural landscape. Visitors can follow the winding stone paths around the waterfall, admire the unique basalt columns, and feel the wild and majestic beauty of nature.
Not only possessing unique natural beauty, Trinh Nu Waterfall also offers visitors unique cultural experiences. Coming here, visitors can participate in elephant riding, a traditional activity of the local people, rock climbing to challenge themselves, drink “ruou can” (straw wine), and engage in cultural exchange with the Ede ethnic people. In addition, visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy delicious Central Highlands specialties, rich in the flavors of the mountains and forests.
Trinh Nu Waterfall is an ideal destination for those who want to find peace, relaxation, and explore the unique cultural beauty of the Central Highlands. This place not only offers exciting travel experiences but is also an opportunity for visitors to learn about the history, geology, and culture of this fertile basalt land.
Gia Long Waterfall: Historical Imprint Amidst Green Forests
Grand Gia Long Waterfall with water powerfully cascading from a height
Gia Long Waterfall, a waterfall imbued with historical significance, is located near the border between Dak Nong and Dak Lak provinces. The waterfall is named after King Gia Long, the first king of the Nguyen Dynasty. King Bao Dai, the last king of the Nguyen Dynasty, also visited this waterfall and built a mansion to enjoy the scenery in 1930.
Gia Long Waterfall embodies the wild and majestic beauty of the Central Highlands mountains and forests. The waterfall is surrounded by a vast, lush green primeval forest, with water cascading straight down from above, spraying white foam, creating an extremely impressive and magnificent scene. The roaring sound of the waterfall echoes in the mountains and forests, dispelling all worries and anxieties of visitors.
Visiting Gia Long Waterfall, visitors not only admire the magnificent natural beauty but also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of this land. Bao Dai’s mansion, despite having gone through many years, still retains its ancient and dignified architectural features. Visitors can visit the mansion, learn about the life and career of King Bao Dai, and admire the panoramic view of Gia Long Waterfall from above.
Gia Long Waterfall is an ideal destination for those who love to explore nature, history, and culture. This place not only offers unique travel experiences but is also an opportunity for visitors to learn about the heroic past of the nation and feel the endless beauty of the Central Highlands mountains and forests.
Conclusion
The Central Highlands, the land of hidden waterfalls, always welcomes visitors with its wild, majestic, and mysterious beauty. Each waterfall has its own beauty, its own story, but all contribute to creating a colorful and enchanting natural picture of the Central Highlands. The journey to explore hidden waterfalls in the Central Highlands will surely be an unforgettable experience, leaving visitors with deep impressions of the land and people here. If you haven’t had the chance to visit the Central Highlands, plan your trip today to discover these hidden gems and feel the wonderful beauty of Vietnam’s mountains and forests.