Gia Lai, the sun- and wind-drenched land of the Central Highlands, is not only famous for its vast coffee plantations or unique gong culture but also possesses breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes. Among them, T'Nung Lake (Bien Ho) and the hundred-year-old pine row along its shore are two unmissable symbols, a check-in destination that has caused a stir on social media and is the pride of the mountain city's people. This is a journey back to pristine, romantic, and poetic beauty, an experience that anyone undertaking a Gia Lai tourism trip wishes to have.

Where is Bien Ho in Gia Lai and how do you get there?

Bien Ho, also known as T'Nung Lake, is a natural freshwater lake located in the northwest of Pleiku city, Gia Lai province. It is only about 7km from the city center, a very convenient distance for a day trip. The road leading to Bien Ho is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Gia Lai, with lush, straight rows of pine trees on both sides, creating an incredibly romantic scene.

To get here, you have several transportation options:

• Motorbike: This is the most popular vehicle among young people. Renting a motorbike in downtown Pleiku allows you to explore freely, stopping anywhere along the poetic road to take photos. From the center, follow Pham Van Dong Street, then turn onto National Highway 14 and go straight until you see the sign for the Bien Ho tourist area.
• Car/Taxi: If you are traveling in a large group or with family, a car or taxi is a comfortable and convenient choice. Most taxi companies in Pleiku are very familiar with this location. The cost is not too high due to the short distance.
• Bus: A more economical option is the bus. You can take a bus route from the city center towards Chu Pah district and get off at the stop near Bien Ho, then take a short walk to the entrance.

Why is Bien Ho called the 'Eyes of Pleiku'?

Bien Ho T'Nung is actually the crater of an extinct volcano that stopped operating millions of years ago. Over time, it collected rainwater and underground streams, forming a large lake with a surface area of over 220 hectares. The name "Eyes of Pleiku" is not just a beautiful title but is also linked to its legend and natural beauty.

According to the legend of the Jrai ethnic people, T'Nung village was once a prosperous and bustling place. One day, the volcano erupted violently, engulfing the entire village in a sea of fire. The survivors mourned for their relatives and their lost village; their tears flowed into streams and gathered to form the immense lake we now call T'Nung. Therefore, the lake is considered the embodiment of the village's tears, clear and deep.

Viewed from above, Bien Ho is formed by two small lakes connected by an isthmus, resembling a pair of clear, sparkling eyes in the middle of the green highlands. The color of the lake water changes with the time of day and season. In the early morning, the lake is covered in a mystical layer of mist. At noon, the water turns a clear emerald green, reflecting the sky and clouds. At dusk, the lake's surface dons the brilliant orange-yellow cloak of sunset. It is this ever-changing and poetic beauty that has made Bien Ho a "precious gem" and an endless source of inspiration for poetry and music.

What's special about the hundred-year-old pine row at Bien Ho?

If Bien Ho is the "eyes," then the hundred-year-old pine row is the charming "eyelashes" that enhance the beauty of this landmark. Located on the path leading down to the boat dock and the Quan Am Statue, the ancient pine row with its large, gnarled trunks stretching straight up to the sky forms a cool green canopy. Many of the pine trees here are a century old, silent historical witnesses to the many changes of this land.

Strolling under the pines, you will feel an unusually peaceful and fresh atmosphere. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting sparkling patterns on the road. The sound of the wind rustling through the pine needles creates a gentle symphony of the mountains. This is the ideal "Instagrammable" background that no tourist wants to miss. No matter which angle you choose, you can easily get photos that look like they're from a Korean drama or a small corner of dreamy Da Lat. The ancient, romantic, and slightly mystical beauty of the pine row has turned this place into an irreplaceable check-in coordinate in Gia Lai.

When is the best time to check in at Bien Ho and the pine row?

Gia Lai has two distinct seasons: the rainy season (from May to October) and the dry season (from November to April of the following year). In each season, Bien Ho has its own unique charm. However, the most ideal time to visit is during the dry season. At this time, the weather is dry and sunny with clear blue skies, which is very convenient for traveling and taking photos. The lake water is also clearer and bluer than ever.

Regarding the time of day, you should visit here in the early morning or late afternoon.

• Early morning (around 6:00 AM - 8:00 AM): The air is fresh and cool. The lake surface often has a thin, romantic layer of mist, creating a magical scene. The gentle morning sunlight shining through the pine row will give you the most beautiful photos with natural light.
• Late afternoon (around 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM): This is when the sun sets. The sun gradually descends, painting the entire lake and sky yellow. The golden afternoon light on the ancient pine row creates a serene, romantic, and nostalgic beauty.

Besides Bien Ho, what other destinations does Gia Lai tourism offer?

A journey to explore Gia Lai would not be complete if you only stop at Bien Ho. This land has many other attractive destinations waiting for you:

• Bien Ho Che (Tea Lake): Close to T'Nung Lake, this is a wonderful combination of lush green tea hills and an irrigation lake. The Korean-style pine-lined road here is also an unmissable check-in spot.
• Minh Thanh Pagoda: A Buddhist architectural work with a strong Japanese style right in the heart of Pleiku. With its soaring curved roofs and exquisite carvings, it is a spiritual destination and also a place for impressive photos.
• Chu Dang Ya Volcano: Famous for the season of brilliant yellow wild sunflowers around November. The wild beauty of this extinct volcano will overwhelm you.
• Phu Cuong Waterfall: A majestic waterfall flowing over a magma rock background, creating a spectacular natural landscape.

What to eat and where to stay when visiting Pleiku?

Pleiku's cuisine is rich with the flavors of the Central Highlands, simple yet incredibly unique. Don't forget to try specialties such as: Gia Lai dry pho (two-bowl pho), crab noodle soup with fermented shrimp paste, bamboo-tube rice, grilled chicken, sun-dried beef, and yellow ant salt... As for accommodation, Pleiku offers a full range of options from luxury hotels, budget guesthouses to charming homestays, depending on your budget and preferences.

What should you prepare for a check-in trip to Bien Ho?

For a perfect trip, keep these things in mind:

• Outfits: Prepare beautiful outfits with bright colors (white, yellow, red) or vintage styles to match the romantic scenery of the pine row and Bien Ho.
• Photography equipment: Don't forget your camera, a fully charged phone, and a power bank so you don't miss any beautiful moments.
• Personal items: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential as the sun in the Central Highlands can be quite strong.
• Environmental awareness: Bien Ho is a natural heritage site. Please maintain general hygiene and do not litter to preserve its beauty.

Bien Ho and the hundred-year-old pine row are not just a tourist destination, but also a place for the soul to find peace and relaxation. The beauty of the "Eyes of Pleiku" will surely leave an unforgettable impression on visitors. So pack your bags and come to Gia Lai to experience it for yourself!

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