Ta Dung National Park

Ta Dung National Park is located in Dak Som Commune, Dak Glong District, Dak Nong Province, more than 50km from Gia Nghia City. This natural reserve is situated at an altitude of about 1000 meters, covering an area of over 26,000 hectares, with forest coverage reaching almost 85% and possessing extremely diverse ecosystems.
The natural damming has created a high-altitude lake with a water surface of nearly 6,000 hectares in Ta Dung, Central Highland. Together with that are dozens of large and small islands, creating a landscape as fascinating as Ha Long Bay, often regarded as "Ha Long Bay of the Central Highland".
Just cast your eyes towards the lake, and you will encounter a scene of clear, calm water, highlighted with 36 small islands scattered across the lake, creating a vivid picture of Vietnam's Central Highland .
Ta Dung National Park – Ha Long Bay of the Central Highland @vuonquocgiatadung
Ta Dung National Park not only boasts fascinating landscapes, but it's also a shared home to over 37 rare and endangered species in need of conservation. Among them, the central grey-shanked douc, the black-handed gibbon (Hylobates gabriellae), the black-legged partridge, and the Annamite muntjac (also known as the marsh deer) are not easy to encounter in nature.
The black-handed gibbon (Hylobates gabriellae) in Ta Dung National Park @Wikipedia
The first thing you'll notice when setting foot is the breathtaking marvel of the Central Highland, Ta Dung. The lush greenery of hills, rivers, and lakes is always maintained and covers this primitive area. You'll easily feel the cool beauty of the natural landscape of mountains, forests, rivers, and the blended sky.
For adventure enthusiasts, do not miss the opportunity to conquer the summit of Ta Dung. With a height of over 1,982 meters above sea level, this is the highest point in the national park's mountain range. At the summit, you can admire the majestic scenery, explore, and learn more about the ancient tea trees.
The nature in Ta Dung National Park @dantocmiennui
If you have the chance, rent a boat to admire the panoramic view of Ta Dung Lake. However, the boat rental price is quite high (around VND 1,500,000 per person). But in return, this is an experience that will make you feel extremely chilled luxurious, and unique.
Imagine, you are sitting on a boat floating on the calm, azure lake. For a moment, the gentle boat weaves through the scattered islands on the lake. You will see the unreal scenery slowly revealed before your eyes, and as you breathe in, you will feel the essence of the Ta Dung Highland seeping into your lungs, leaving you with a very fresh, yet calm sensation.
Exploring lakes in Ta Dung National Park @KKday
In addition to the natural beauty, visiting Ta Dung offers tourists the opportunity to experience the unique and mysterious cultural beauty of the Chau Ma ethnic group.
Furthermore, the traditional craft village of Dak Nia, located about 10 kilometers from the center of Gia Nghia City, is also a must-see destination. This is the place where the traditional weaving craft of the longstanding local ethnic groups is well-preserved and promoted.
Traditional culture in Ta Dung National Park @baodantoc
Two distinct seasons divides the weather in Dak Nong: the rainy season (from November to April of the following year) and the dry season (from May to October). The water level in Ta Dung Lake varies with each season, creating diverse natural landscapes, each with its own unique beauty.
However, the best time to fully explore the beauty of this national park is during the dry season. At this time, the park becomes an ideal escape from the heat, and although the lake water level is lower, it allows easier movement and exploration. Meanwhile, during the rainy season, the abundant water in the lake presents a vibrant scene, but the humid weather can make traveling more challenging.
Weather at Ta Dung National Park @dulich.daknong.gov
Previously, when the number of tourists visiting Ta Dung was still small, there were only a few homestays of ethnic minority groups with a limited number of rooms. Although there are more of them now, if you plan to visit during the holidays or weekends, remember to book your room early. Room rates here may be slightly higher than elsewhere, ranging from VND 300,000 per night upwards.
In case there are no available rooms, or if you want to save costs, you can bring a tent for camping. Camping is suitable for larger groups, providing both enjoyment and safety.
Accommodation at Ta Dung National Park @vuonquocgiatadung
An excellent alternative for those tired of BBQ grilled meat, the fish here is very fresh and deliciously chewy due to the natural environment of this large lake and its unique characteristics. There are many floating fishing villages on the lake, where visitors can enjoy this specialty dish right on the spot.
Grilled snakehead fish - Ta Dung National Park @KKday
This type of liquor is famous for its strict and time-consuming production process. Carefully selected rice grains go through a cooking and cooling process before being mixed with yeast extracted from forest bark and put into jars. The jars are cleaned and soaked with dried forest leaves.
This ensures that the liquor has a strong and rich taste, without being sour, and gives the drink a memorable flavor that is enjoyed by those who like it.
But remember, if you've been drinking alcohol, don't drive. Therefore, if you're camping overnight here, be sure to try this specialty dish!
Straw liquor - Ta Dung National Park @captureroi
Air travel is a popular choice among tourists because of its speed and convenience. Flights typically land at Buon Ma Thuot Airport, located about 90 kilometers from the city center of Gia Nghia. Yet, to have a flexible and cost-effective journey in Ta Dung, Vietnam, many tourists opt for traveling by car/bus or motorbike.
The bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Gia Nghia City usually lasts 4 to 6 hours. Ticket prices range from VND 150,000 to VND 220,000 per trip. The price may change depending on the bus's quality. The cost of the ticket may vary based on the bus quality.
Also, you can rent a motorbike for prices ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per person (depending on the time). This allows you to reach camping areas at Ta Dung park.
Start in Ho Chi Minh City, take National Highway No. 20 to Di Linh District. Then, continue on National Highway No. 28 to Gia Nghia City. Continue on National Highway No. 28 for another 45 kilometers to reach the destination.
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I hope this article helps you learn important travel tips about Ta Dung National Park. This way, you can have a great time exploring the beautiful Central Highlands area.
If you require additional details regarding travel across Vietnam Central Highland, feel free to explore our Vietnam Travel Blog. You'll also uncover intriguing insights into the local lifestyle and culture.
Let's experience the wonders of Ta Dung National Park with our Vietnam Travel Guide now. Book your adventure and discover the beauty of Vietnam's natural landscapes.!
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