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Dak Lak: The Land of Cultural Convergence

Following the administrative merger, Dak Lak is seizing a major opportunity to restructure its tourism space toward sustainability, taking traditional culture as its foundation. This strategic move aims to both preserve ethnic identities and promote community-based tourism as a key economic driver.

A Rich Tapestry of Cultural Heritage

Dak Lak is a land steeped in history, culture, and revolution. Home to 49 ethnic groups such as the Ede, M’nong, Jrai, and Ba Na, the province embodies a harmonious cultural mosaic. From longhouses and communal Rong houses to northern-style stilt houses and Kinh village temples, Dak Lak’s cultural diversity is deeply interwoven into daily life.

The Central Highlands Gong Culture Space, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is the soul of the region. Complementing it are other remarkable traditions such as the “Double Drum, Triple Gong, Quintuple Gong” performances of the Cham H’roi and Ba Na people, and the art of Bai Choi, which also received UNESCO recognition in 2017.

Traditional festivals, folk music, and craftsmanship, from rượu cần (rice wine) brewing to handwoven textiles, form a vibrant cultural landscape that fascinates visitors. Historical landmarks such as the Buon Ma Thuot Prison, Dray Nur Waterfall, and Ganh Da Dia add depth and authenticity to Dak Lak’s tourism identity.

Sustainable Tourism Rooted in Culture

Dak Lak has been actively integrating cultural preservation into tourism development. Through Resolution 08/2021, the province supports community-based tourism in ethnic minority villages, promoting environmental protection, digital transformation, and international cooperation.

With the new “Sea - Forest - Culture” tourism vision and the strategy “Connecting the Highlands and the Blue Sea,” Dak Lak is transforming into a multi-dimensional destination. Visitors can enjoy gong performances, Bai Choi singing, Cham dances, and ethnic instrumental concerts, or experience local homestays and signature festivals such as the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival and Durian Festival.

Bridging Highlands and Coastlines

In the eastern area (formerly Phu Yen), Dak Lak is developing sustainable tourism that blends highland culture with coastal charm. The province is designing interregional tours linking the pristine beaches of Ganh Da Dia and Bai Xep to the mountain regions of M’Drak and Krong Nang, where travelers can discover Ede, Cham H’roi, and Ba Na heritage.

Toward a Vibrant Future

Community-based tourism remains central to Dak Lak’s long-term strategy, with villages like Ako Dhong and Buon Don emerging as models of cultural preservation and local empowerment. The province is also accelerating digital transformation to help small businesses and craft cooperatives expand their reach.

By 2050, Dak Lak aims to become a distinctive ecological and cultural hub - a creative, welcoming, and livable destination. With every smile, festival, and journey, this land of the great forests invites travelers to explore, connect, and fall in love with its timeless charm.