Pongour Waterfall – The Majestic Beauty and “The First Waterfall of the South Heaven”
Pongour Waterfall, often referred to as “The First Waterfall of the South Heaven,” boasts a magnificent and untouched beauty that has captured the hearts of many adventure enthusiasts and travelers. This seven-tiered waterfall is emerging as a hot tourist destination in Da Lat, attracting wanderers who seek unique experiences.
When exploring the natural wonders and pristine mountains and forests of Da Lat, apart from Prenn Waterfall, Pongour Waterfall is an ideal destination. With its grandeur and romantic charm, this waterfall paints a picture of the original Da Lat plateau. Follow this article to discover detailed insights into this enchanting place.
1. Pongour Waterfall – The First Waterfall of the South Heaven
- Address: Tan Nghia Hamlet, Ninh Gia Commune, Duc Trong District, Lam Dong Province Located about 50 km from the center of Da Lat, Pongour Waterfall is situated in Duc Trong District, Lam Dong Province. This is the most beautiful and grand waterfall in the Central Highlands region. The waterfall cascades from a height of nearly 40 meters, spanning over 100 meters across multiple tiers of stepped rocks. The surrounding area is adorned with diverse and lush vegetation.
- In the past century, when visiting Pongour Waterfall in Da Lat, King Bao Dai bestowed the title “The First Waterfall of the South Heaven” upon this waterfall, signifying its majestic presence in the southern sky. The local people of Lam Dong also refer to it as the “Seven-tiered Waterfall” due to the water flowing through seven cascading tiers of rock.
2. Opening Hours and Admission Fee
As one of the trending tourist destinations in Da Lat, the seven-tiered waterfall attracts numerous visitors for exploration and photography. However, before you visit this stunning site, it’s important to know the opening hours and admission fees for Pongour Waterfall:
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 05:30 PM Admission Fee (estimated): Children: 10,000 VND/ticket; Adults: 20,000 VND/ticket
3. Best Time to Visit Pongour Waterfall
Pongour Waterfall in Da Lat is beautiful and flowing throughout the year, making it an ideal destination at any time. From July to September, during the rainy season when the land of thousands of flowers is in full bloom, the waterfall cascades with force into the lake, creating a grand and spectacular view.
During the dry season from around October to July next year, the water at Pongour Waterfall flows gently. The water gracefully descends over the tiers of rock, resembling smooth velvet ribbons that softly drape over the mossy green rocks. Visiting the waterfall during this period offers a breathtaking and captivating scene.
4. Directions to Pongour Waterfall
To reach the ecological tourist area of Pongour Waterfall, you can travel by motorbike, car, taxi, or bus. If the distance is relatively short, traveling by motorbike is the ideal choice, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way.
If you’re departing from Ho Chi Minh City, drive along National Highway 20 until you reach Km260 in Duc Trong District, then turn left. Continue for about 6 km to reach Pongour Waterfall. If you’re starting from the center of Da Lat, take the Liên Khương – Prenn Expressway. After the expressway, follow National Highway 20 until Km260 in Duc Trong District, then turn right. Proceed for about 6 km to reach the seven-tiered Pongour Waterfall.
Upon arriving at the ecological tourist area of Pongour Waterfall, you can park your vehicle and walk for approximately 15 minutes to reach the waterfall. Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, you can use the shuttle service available for 15,000 VND per person per way.
5. The Legend of Pongour Waterfall Linked to Kanai, the Female Prison Leader
Pongour Waterfall is steeped in legend, closely tied to the story of the beautiful female prison leader Kanai. The tale goes that in the past, in the area now known as Phu Hoi, Kanai, a K’Ho woman, held the position of female prison leader. She possessed the skill to tame wild animals, using them to protect the interests of the villagers. This included four large rhinoceroses that accompanied her and followed her orders to move hills, redirect streams, and safeguard the village from invaders. Thanks to her efforts, the K’Ho people enjoyed a prosperous and peaceful life.
On the full moon day of the first lunar month, Kanai passed away. Her four rhinoceroses remained by her side, neither eating nor drinking, until their own deaths. On a dawn when the sun was rising, the people were astonished to witness a beautiful waterfall suddenly appear where Kanai had passed away. It turned out that the water from her hair had transformed into clear flowing water, forming white foams. The blue moss-covered rocks were arranged in seven tiers, reminiscent of the rhinoceros horns that had petrified.
The name “Pongour” is derived from the local K’Ho language and was phonetically transcribed by the French. Every year, on the full moon day of the first lunar month or the seventh lunar month, local people organize a festival at the waterfall to commemorate the beautiful female prison leader Kanai.
6. Unique Experiences at Pongour Waterfall
6.1. Marvel at the Majestic Beauty of the Seven-tiered Waterfall
Upon arriving at Pongour Waterfall, you’ll be mesmerized by the wild and magnificent natural scenery. The water descends from above, creating a spectacle of white foams cascading over the area. The water gently flows through the rock tiers, resembling smooth velvet ribbons. Surrounding the waterfall are ancient towering trees that add to the enchanting ambiance.
Pongour Waterfall offers an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility and respite from the urban bustle. Here, you can simply sit on the rocks, enjoy the refreshing air, and listen to the symphony of nature.
6.2. Camping, Picnicking, and BBQ Parties by the Waterfall
With its romantic and grand scenery, Pongour Waterfall is the perfect spot for camping, picnicking, or hosting a BBQ party in the great outdoors. You can prepare camping gear, food, and select a suitable spot near the waterfall for your outdoor activities. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature and create memorable experiences.
6.3. Engage in the Distinctive Pongour Festival
If you’re wondering what to do at Pongour Waterfall, plan your visit during the full moon day of the first lunar month or the seventh lunar month of each year. During these times, local people organize a festival at the waterfall to remember the beautiful female prison leader Kanai. Participate in various exciting games and learn more about the cultural heritage of the Central Highlands.
7. Dining Experiences at Pongour Waterfall
When visiting Pongour Waterfall, if you haven’t brought food for outdoor activities like BBQs, you can opt for the restaurants within the tourist area. Here, you’ll have the chance to savor the famous specialties of Da Lat, such as grilled chicken rice in bamboo, grilled meats, and “ruou can” (a traditional Vietnamese wine). Some recommended restaurants include Vodka Quán, Tám Lúa Restaurant, and SuSin Restaurant.
8. Tips for Visiting Pongour Waterfall
- Before visiting the seven-tiered waterfall, prepare personal essentials and spare clothing for changing in case you get wet.
- The road to Pongour Waterfall involves many sharp turns and curves, so drive cautiously for safety.
- The path leading to the waterfall is rocky and slippery, so it’s advisable to wear footwear with good traction.
- Avoid visiting during heavy rain as the water flow intensifies, creating deep and potentially dangerous waterholes.
- If you’re camping, picnicking, or hosting a BBQ by Pongour Waterfall, remember to clean up and take your trash with you. Avoid littering the area.
Plan your journey to Pongour Waterfall, where you’ll be captivated by its awe-inspiring beauty, distinctive legends, and unique experiences. Experience the grandeur of nature and the vibrant culture of the Central Highlands at this remarkable destination.
