There are several clusters of Bahnar villages on the periphery of Kon Tum. Village life here centres on the traditional rong house (nha rong ), a tall thatched-roof community house built on stilts. The stilts were originally there to provide protection from elephants, tigers and other animals.
East of town Kon Tum Konam and Kon Tum Kopong each have rong houses. To the south is the village Kon Harachot and there are others to the west.
Generally the local people welcome tourists and it’s fine to wander around the village. But ask permission before pointing a camera into people’s faces or homes. You also probably won’t see people in traditional garb unless they’re on their way to Mass in the Bahnar language, held on Sunday nights at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral.
Guided day trips to villages are available from about 400,000d for a guide/motorbike driver, depending on the places visited. Permits are no longer required, but be on the safe side by checking in with Kon Tum Tourist before venturing off.
If you have time to spend several days here, Kon Tum Tourist can arrange village homestays. Because the guides are careful not to intrude too frequently on any one village, visitors are always welcomed and traditions remain intact.
