Kon Tum's 10 Historical Sites You Absolutely Can't Miss

Kon Tum's historical sites are more than just deeply culturally significant; they are also vivid, living testaments to the incredibly resilient and unyielding spirit of its people. Venturing through these historic landmarks not only gives us a deeper insight into the past but also ignites a profound sense of national pride.
Kon Tum is a land rich in profound historical sites, marking the nation's ups and downs through various periods. Each site here is not just a historical witness but also an endless source of inspiration, showcasing the resilience and sacrifice of its people. Join63Stravel.comto explore these fascinating historical sites!
Top 10 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Kon Tum for Your Travel Checklist
Below are some of Kon Tum's most famous historical sites that travelers can visit and explore.
1. Historical Revolutionary Site of Hill 601
Address: Đăk La Commune, Đăk Hà District, Kon Tum Province.
Cao Cao 601 revolutionary historical relicwas once a crucial military outpost in the enemy's defense system, protecting Kon Tum town and the vital National Route 14. Fierce battles took place here, especially the decisive victory in April 1972, which significantly contributed to the liberation campaign of Đăk Tô - Tân Cảnh.

Historical Revolutionary Site of Hill 601
Today, Hill 601 has been developed into a historical site, preserving the memories of a challenging yet heroic war era. The former “Skull Hill” area is now covered in lush green young forests, symbolizing peace and rebirth. It's a place for current generations to reflect, show gratitude, and feel proud of the immense sacrifices made by their ancestors.
2. Indochina T-junction (Three-Country Junction)
Address: Bờ Y Commune, Ngọc Hồi District, Kon Tum Province
Situated atop a mountain 1,086m above sea level, the landmarkIndochina junctionwas completed in 2009 and quickly became a prominent highlight among Kon Tum's historical sites. Shaped like a triangular pillar made of polished granite, the landmark features the national emblems of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, symbolizing their strong solidarity.

Check-in at Indochina T-junction
This landmark is located in the Bờ Y Border Gate area, where Kon Tum Province of Vietnam, Attapeu Province of Laos, and Ratanakiri Province of Cambodia meet. Often referred to as “the place where roosters crow and three countries hear,” it's not only a favorite check-in spot for tourists but also a meaningful cultural and peace symbol for the Indochina region.
3. Chư Mom Ray National Park
Address: Indochina T-junction, Kon Tum Province.
Located at the Indochina T-junction,Chu Mom Ray National Parkspans Ngọc Hồi and Sa Thầy districts in Kon Tum Province. Covering an area of 56,000 hectares, it is a vast trans-national primary forest region bordering Laos and Cambodia, creating a diverse and unique natural ecosystem.

Chư Mom Ray National Park - An Attractive Destination in Kon Tum
As one of Kon Tum's historical sites, Chư Mom Ray not only preserves a characteristic Southeast Asian ecosystem but also holds historical significance. Home to 1,534 plant species and 718 animal species, including many rare ones, it was recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park over 15 years ago.
Chư Mom Ray also entices visitors with its old-growth forest exploration journeys, leading them to heroic landmarks like the Trường Sơn Trail, Kon Tum Prison, and Phượng Hoàng Airport. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural life of ethnic minority communities and savor the distinctive cuisine of the Central Highlands.
4. Măng Đen Historical Site and Scenic Landscape
Situated at an altitude of over 1,200m above sea level,Mang Den historical relics and landscapes(Kon Plông District) is often likened to “the second Da Lat” due to its year-round cool climate and stunning scenery. This region is a harmonious blend of wild nature and rare tranquility, featuring endless green pine forests, waterfalls as soft as silk ribbons, and fresh, pure air.

Măng Đen Historical Site and Scenic Landscape
Măng Đen Historical Site and Scenic Landscape serves as the starting point for the “Central Highlands Green Road” tourist route. Măng Đen connects with the “Central Heritage Road” and the “Legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail,” creating a unique trans-national journey. Here, visitors can admire the pristine beauty of the Central Highlands' vast forests, with crystal-clear streams, serene waterfalls like Pa Sỹ, Đắk Ke, Lô Ba, and poetic lakes such as Toong Zơri, Toong Pô, and Toong Đam.
Beyond its ecotourism appeal, Măng Đen also preserves a rich cultural heritage through ancient villages like Kon K’tu, Kon Du, Kon Skoi, and Kon Pring. These villages have maintained the traditional lifestyles and unique architecture of their ethnic minority communities.
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5. Kon Hrinh Memorial Site
Address: Kon Hơ ring Village, Diên Bình Commune, Đăk Tô District, Kon Tum Province.
Kon Hrinh evidence areais a painful testament to the atrocities committed by the American imperialists and the Saigon puppet regime during the Vietnam War. On the night of May 25, 1972, this area suffered a brutal bombing raid, resulting in the deaths of 500 innocent civilians and injuries to hundreds more. To commemorate the victims and document the enemy's crimes, Kon Tum Province constructed this memorial site, which includes a monument, green spaces, and various other facilities.
Beyond its profound historical significance, Kon Hơ Ring Church is also a unique religious architectural work, distinguished by its design deeply imbued with the identity of the K'ho ethnic group. Built in 1959, the church impresses with its rustic yet refined bamboo and coconut leaf roof, and artistic paintings and carved wooden saints. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a community hub for the K'ho people, vividly reflecting their cultural and spiritual life.
6. Bác Ái Pagoda
Address: Bác Ái Ancestral Temple, Quyết Thắng Ward, Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province.
Perched on a lush green hill that was once a wild forest,Bac Ai Pagodaembodied a solemn, ancient beauty along with a memorable historical narrative. Built in 1983 following the Northern Zen tradition, the pagoda is the result of diligent efforts to develop this land under the guidance of Mr. Võ Chuẩn, the Kon Tum Provincial Instructor. The structure is designed in the “Môn” architectural style, creating harmony between nature and spiritual belief.

Bác Ái Pagoda - Kon Tum's Oldest Ancient Pagoda
Stepping through the majestic Tam Quan gate, visitors will immediately feel the tranquility that the pagoda grounds offer. Deeper inside is the Main Hall – the heart of the pagoda – meticulously arranged with three main sections and two side wings, comprising the Front Hall, Middle Hall, and Upper Hall.
The Main Hall enshrines Buddhas such as the Avatamsaka Triple Saints, the Buddhas of the Three Ages, and the Amitabha Triple Honored Ones. Architectural details like columns and rafters, crafted from precious woods – trắc, cà chít, tía – are exquisitely carved by artisans from Huế, imparting a unique artistic beauty and unparalleled historical value.
Besides the Main Hall, the area surrounding Bác Ái Pagoda also preserves steles, tombs, stupas, and shrines dedicated to Đoàn Quán, Sơn Thần (Mountain God), and the local tutelary deity Bổn Cảnh. Several rare artifacts, such as statues of Quan Thế Âm (Avalokiteshvara), the Triple Holy Mothers, along with artworks like parallel couplets and imperial seals, are still preserved, vividly recreating the marks of time.
The system of statues at Bác Ái Pagoda is crafted from gleaming bronze, retaining its timeless beauty. Although some details like the dragon motifs or winding patterns were lost during restoration, the pagoda still preserves its solemnity and distinctive antique charm. It is not only a place of worship but also an attractive destination for those who love exploring the culture, history, and architecture of Kon Tum.
7. Plei Kần Victory Site
Address: Đắk Xú Commune, Ngọc Hồi District, Kon Tum Province.
Located on the eastern slopes of the Trường Sơn mountain range, in Ngọc Hồi District, Kon Tum Province,Plei Kan victoryis a special historical and geographical intersection. This is precisely where the borders of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia meet, featuring a vital transportation network connecting Indochina. The legendary National Route 14C originates from Chư Mom Ray National Park, while National Route 40 passes through the Bờ Y Border Gate, opening a gateway for regional trade and strategy.
In the Xê Đăng language, Plei Kần means “large village,” and it was once a harmonious home for the Xê Đăng, Brâu, HLăng, and Kdong ethnic groups. However, during the war, the US transformed Plei Kần into a fortified stronghold to block revolutionary forces, utilizing the hilly terrain and swamps to construct a system of underground tunnels, bunkers, and a makeshift airfield.
The battle at Plei Kần stronghold climaxed in October 1972, when our 10th Division, along with special forces and artillery, launched a fierce assault. After more than two days and nights of fighting, our troops completely took control of the stronghold, eliminating over 400 enemy soldiers, capturing 65, and seizing numerous important weapons and equipment. The Plei Kần victory opened up the border corridor, reinforced the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail, and significantly contributed to the great Spring Offensive of 1975, completely liberating the South and reunifying the country.
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8. Dak Glei Prison
Address: Đắk Choong Commune, Đắk Glei District, Kon Tum.
Dak Glei Prison(also known as Tố Hữu Prison) is associated with the spectacular prison escape of the renowned revolutionary and poet Tố Hữu, along with his comrade Huỳnh Ngọc Huệ, in early 1942. Following this event, the French colonialists intensified their repression and imprisoned many more communist soldiers here.

Đắk Glei Prison - A Testament to the Indomitable Spirit of Communist Soldiers
Located on National Route 14, at an altitude of 1,800m on Chang T'né Hill, Đắk Glei Prison is surrounded by valleys and rugged mountains, forming a robust detention system comprising a guard post area, a re-education camp, and solitary confinement cells. The main structure covers 200m² with 4 cells, where revolutionary soldiers endured arduous yet resilient days. Below the hillside are narrow, dark solitary confinement cells, where the enemy relentlessly tortured but could not break the will of these patriotic individuals.
Today, a new concrete road has made access much more convenient, taking only about 30 minutes. Visiting Đắk Glei Prison, you will not only feel the heroism of history but also take pride in the indomitable spirit of the communist soldiers, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacred values of the nation. Make sure to dedicate time to explore this unmissable historical site when you visit Kon Tum.
9. Kon Tum Prison
Address: North of Đắk Bla River, on Trương Quang Trọng Street, Quyết Thắng Ward, Kon Tum City.
Kon Tum Prison(also known as “Lao trong” or “Inner Prison”) was once the site of courageous protests by communist soldiers against the inhumane policies of the French colonialists. In December 1935, under pressure from these resistance movements, the prison was forced to close, becoming a symbol of resilient will and indomitable spirit.
During the period of 1930-1931, this place was dubbed a “brutal killing furnace” as hundreds of political prisoners were forced into hard labor to build National Route 14. Nevertheless, their sacrifices added a glorious chapter to history, leaving behind a proud spiritual legacy.
Today, Kon Tum Prison has been recognized as a National Historical Site, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to explore and pay tribute. Here, you will clearly feel the historical significance, from stories of glorious struggles to the ancient architectural space, which preserves over 500 valuable documents and artifacts. Don't forget to conclude your visit by enjoying the majestic scenery of Chư Hreng Mountain, fostering an even deeper sense of national pride.
10. Đắk Tô – Tân Cảnh Victory Site
Address: Đắk Tô District, Kon Tum Province.
Dak To victory relic - new scenerylocated on a 600m high hill, is one of the most important historical sites in the Central Highlands. This area was once a fierce battlefield during the resistance against the Americans, witnessing intense battles, especially in April 1972 when it served as the strongest military base for the US and the Saigon regime.

Đắk Tô Victory Monument Site - Marking Glorious and Heroic Feats in Kon Tum
Recognized as a Special National Relic in 2016, the site not only commemorates the glorious victories of our army and people but also stands as a testament to the nation's spirit of solidarity and resilience. Visiting Đắk Tô, you will clearly feel the historical significance through its memorials, commemorative steles, and the remnants of Phượng Hoàng Airport, a famous site built by the Americans.
Đắk Tô is also a land that preserves the distinctive cultural values of the Central Highlands' ethnic groups, with traditional festivals, communal longhouses (Nhà Rông), and folk art. The Đắk Tô Victory Monument Site is an ideal destination to learn about the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Central Highlands.
Concluding your visit, the historical sites in Kon Tum not only leave visitors with profound impressions of a glorious past but also serve as an inspiration for younger generations to understand and cherish invaluable historical and cultural values. We hope everyone will have the most enjoyable exploration of this region!
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Update day : 09/12/2024
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