Dak Lak (VNA) – Nestled amid the mountains and forests of the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak lies Lak lake, a breathtaking expanse of freshwater that beckons travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty.
As the largest freshwater lake in the Central Highlands and the second largest in Vietnam, Lak lake surpasses even Gia Lai's renowned Bien Ho (Sea Lake) in size, offering a majestic spectacle from the moment visitors arrive.
A Legendary Origin
M'Nong ethnic group folklore tells the tale of Lak Lake's creation. According to legend, a fierce battle erupted between the water and fire deities. Though the fire deity emerged victorious, a devastating drought followed, leaving the M'Nong people struggling. A glimmer of hope emerged when the son of the fire deity and a M'Nong woman fell in love. Determined to atone for his father's actions, the son embarked on a quest to find a life-saving water source for the village. After a long and arduous journey, he stumbled upon a young eel trapped in a crevice. Grateful for his rescue, the eel led him to a vast, azure lake – a place that would eventually become Lak lake and a new home for the M'Nong people.
Finding the Perfect Time to Visit
Lak lake is situated roughly 60 km from Buon Ma Thuot city centre. The Krong Ana River serves as its primary water source, while a pristine forest teeming with diverse plant life surrounds the lake. This harmonious blend of nature creates a stunningly beautiful landscape, offering a sense of tranquility and romance for visitors.
The climate in Buon Ma Thuot is characterised by two distinct seasons: the rainy season stretching from May to October and the dry season encompassing the remaining months. For the most optimal experience, tourists are advised to visit Lak lake between September and December. During this period, the lake boasts high water levels, lush greenery, and exceptionally favourable weather conditions for exploration.
Beyond the Breathtaking Scenery
Lak lake offers more than just captivating views and fresh air. Visitors can embark on a variety of exciting activities:
· Exploring the Summer Palace of King Bao Dai: Perched atop a hill with breathtaking vistas of the lake, this historical landmark provides a unique blend of majestic natural landscapes and elegant architecture. The three-story villa offers a restaurant on the first floor, King Bao Dai's former living quarters on the second, and guest accommodations on the third.
· Immersing in the Culture of Ethnic Minorities: The area surrounding Lak Lake is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups in Dak Lak. M'Nong villages are particularly popular tourist destinations where visitors can gain insights into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of these communities. Traditional performances of gong music, xoang dance, and folk singing, alongside demonstrations of fire dancing, bamboo tube wine drinking, brocade weaving, and forest elephant farming, offer a window into this unique cultural tapestry.
· Savouring Local Delicacies: A visit to Lak lake wouldn't be complete without indulging in some of the local culinary specialties. Here are a few must-try dishes:
- Fried Thac Lac Fish: This dish features crispy and flavourful fish cakes that are sure to tantalise even the most discerning palates.
- Grilled Chicken with Bamboo Tube-Cooked Rice: The combination of aromatic and flavourful grilled chicken with sticky and sweet bamboo rice creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Grilled Snakehead Fish with Salt: Freshly caught snakehead fish from the lake is marinated in a rich blend of spices before being grilled to perfection. The dish is traditionally wrapped in rice paper with raw vegetables and dipped in a flavourful sauce.
- Tube Wine: This local specialty is stored in large earthen jars and enjoyed using a bamboo tube. Visitors often purchase tube wine as a unique souvenir for friends and family.
Lak lake offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion and delectable cuisine. A trip to Vietnam's Central Highlands wouldn't be complete without experiencing the tranquility and charm of this hidden paradise./.
