As the Central Highlands enter the drier months, wild sunflowers begin to colour the slopes of Chư Đang Ya in Biển Hồ Commune.
Mơ Waterfall in Ia Krái Commune, Salom Waterfall in Gào Commune and Ba Waterfall in Đak Đoa Commune provide further destinations for hiking and sightseeing.
But exploring nature does not always require a journey into the mountains. In Pleiku, waterways weave through residential areas, offering green spaces within the city.
Hội Phú Stream passes through Pleiku and Hội Phú wards, while Ia Kring flows through Diên Hồng and Pleiku wards. Ia Nil runs through Thống Nhất Ward.
Their tree-lined banks offer places to walk, listen to flowing water and step away from the city’s noise.
Lê Long, a freelance tour guide from Hội Phú Ward, said the abundance of streams and waterfalls gave Pleiku a distinctive character. Their appearance changes with the seasons, bringing different experiences throughout the year.
In traditional villages such as Plei Ơp, the waterways also connect visitors with local history. Jrai residents recount stories of their ancestors establishing the village beside the stream.
For some Pleiku residents, these places carry memories stretching back to childhood.
Trần Mạnh Thắng, who lives in Thống Nhất Ward, recalled crossing fields, wading through streams and swimming with friends during the summer. He described the waterways as an important part of Pleiku’s identity, preserving memories of both the landscape and its people.
Exploring streams and waterfalls remains among his favourite outdoor activities.
Nguyễn Văn Hùng, a nature enthusiast from Diên Hồng Ward, said such excursions appealed to local residents as well as visitors from further afield.
Short trips give residents an opportunity to exercise and discover the scenery around their hometown, he said.
Friends and acquaintances who had explored Gia Lai’s natural attractions often spoke of returning relaxed after a break from their daily routines.
