Ngoc Hoi Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Ngoc Hoi, Vietnam and discover its culture, adventure, food, and scenic beauty. Our comprehensive guide provides insights into the best things to do and see in Ngoc Hoi.


Introduction to Ngoc Hoi

Ngoc Hoi is a town located in Kon Tum Province in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and has a population of around 13,000 people. Ngoc Hoi is known for its natural beauty and traditional culture, offering visitors a chance to explore and experience an authentic Vietnam.

List of Places to Visit in Ngoc Hoi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the top attractions in Ngoc Hoi is the Kon Tum Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum features exhibits on artifacts, photos, and documents related to the ethnic groups in the Central Highlands, such as the Gie Trieng, Ba Na, and Xe Dang. Visitors can also visit the Kon Tum Wooden Church, constructed in the 20th century and known for its unique architecture.

Natural Attractions of Ngoc Hoi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ngoc Hoi is surrounded by mountains and forests, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and camping. Visitors can explore ethnic minority villages and learn about their traditional way of life, or visit the Ngoc Hoi Nature Reserve to see rare flora and fauna. The Dak Glei and Dak To Hot Springs are popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ngoc Hoi

Ngoc Hoi offers a variety of scenic routes for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Ho Chi Minh Trail is a popular route that stretches from the north to the south of Vietnam, passing through the Central Highlands and the town of Ngoc Hoi. Visitors can also explore the scenic countryside and ethnic minority villages on the mountainous roads leading to Dak Glei Commune.

Best Things to Do in Ngoc Hoi: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities to do in Ngoc Hoi, such as exploring ethnic minority villages, visiting hot springs, and hiking in the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take a city tour or rent a motorbike to explore the town and surrounding areas. Local tour operators offer customized tours that cater to different interests and preferences.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ngoc Hoi

Day 1: Visit the Kon Tum Museum and Wooden Church. Day 2: Explore ethnic minority villages in the surrounding area. Day 3: Take a scenic hike to Dak Glei Commune. Day 4: Relax and unwind at the Dak To Hot Springs. Day 5: Visit the Ngoc Hoi Nature Reserve and see rare flora and fauna. Day 6: Explore the town on a motorbike tour. Day 7: Depart Ngoc Hoi for the next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Ngoc Hoi

Must-Try Dishes

Ngoc Hoi is known for its traditional dishes that incorporate local ingredients and culinary techniques. Some must-try dishes include:

  1. Banh canh (a noodle soup made with thick noodles and seafood or pork)
  2. Goi cuon (fresh spring rolls stuffed with vegetables, shrimp, and herbs)
  3. Com nieu (Vietnamese rice cooked in a clay pot)
  4. Banh xeo (a crispy, savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts)

Local Beverages

A popular local drink in Ngoc Hoi is ruou can, which is a rice wine drunk out of a small bamboo tube. The wine is often homemade, and the process involves fermenting rice in yeast for several months. Visitors can also try the local coffee, which is grown in the nearby mountainous regions.

Where to Stay in Ngoc Hoi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ngoc Hoi offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some recommended options include:

  1. Dakbla Hotel: A modern hotel located in the town center with comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  2. Green Bamboo Lodge: A budget-friendly option that offers traditional bungalows and a peaceful setting near the river.
  3. Dakto Hotel: A mid-range option with spacious rooms and an outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Ngoc Hoi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ngoc Hoi is known for its handicrafts and ethnic minority products, such as weaving, embroidery, and woodcarving. Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  1. Handwoven textiles such as scarves, bags, and table runners.
  2. Wooden bowls, spoons, and trays made by the Ba Na ethnic minority.
  3. Handmade jewelry and accessories.
  4. Coffee and rice wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Ngoc Hoi

Ngoc Hoi is home to several ethnic minority groups, each with their own unique culture and customs. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting ethnic minority villages. In general, the people of Ngoc Hoi are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit Ngoc Hoi

The best time to visit Ngoc Hoi is from December to February when the weather is cool and dry. The town is also pleasant to visit during the summer months from June to August when the days are warm and the mountains are lush and green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ngoc Hoi

Do:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting ethnic minority villages.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions.
  3. Try the local food and drink.
  4. Explore the surrounding natural beauty.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  2. Touch or disturb any wildlife in the Ngoc Hoi Nature Reserve.
  3. Drink tap water; stick to bottled water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ngoc Hoi

Ngoc Hoi is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should use caution when hiking or trekking in the mountains and follow designated trails and safety guidelines. Motorbike accidents can be a common occurrence, so always wear a helmet and drive defensively.

Health in Ngoc Hoi

Visitors should be up-to-date on their vaccinations and take standard precautions when it comes to food and water safety. The town has a local hospital and several clinics for minor medical issues.

Getting to Ngoc Hoi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ngoc Hoi

The nearest airport to Ngoc Hoi is Pleiku Airport, located around 70 km away. Another alternative airport is the Lien Khuong Airport in Dalat, which is around 200 km away.

Bus Stations Near Ngoc Hoi

Ngoc Hoi has a bus station that connects it to various destinations within the Central Highlands region and other parts of Vietnam. The town is also accessible by private car or motorbike.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to the neighboring Kon Tum Province and then take a bus or taxi to Ngoc Hoi.

How to Get Around in Ngoc Hoi

The best way to get around Ngoc Hoi is by motorbike, which can be rented from several local shops. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Ngoc Hoi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ngoc Hoi is located in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam, offering visitors an opportunity to explore other nearby towns and attractions such as Kon Tum, Pleiku, and Buon Ma Thuot. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby Cambodia border or visit the picturesque Lak Lake.

Conclusion

Ngoc Hoi is a hidden gem in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty, traditional culture, and outdoor adventures of the area. Whether you’re interested in hiking, trying new foods, or learning about the local culture, Ngoc Hoi has something for everyone. Plan your trip and discover the best of Vietnam’s Central Highlands today!