Ayun Pa

Ayun Pa is a district-level town in south-eastern Gia Lai province, situated along the Ayun River in a valley surrounded by low hills and farmland. Formerly known as Cheo Reo after 1975, the town has a population of approximately 75,000 and covers an area of 287 km². It serves as a local market centre for the surrounding agricultural area, where farmers grow rice, coffee, pepper, and cashew. The territory is divided into 4 urban wards (Cheo Reo, Hoà Bình, Đoàn Kết, Sông Bờ) and 4 rural communes. The population includes a significant number of Jarai and Bahnar indigenous people, giving the town a distinct Central Highlands cultural character. The town is quiet and unhurried, with little tourist infrastructure but an authentic highland atmosphere.

The climate is tropical monsoon with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season from November to April is the most pleasant time to visit. Temperatures range from 22–29°C year-round.

By Plane

Pleiku Airport (PXU IATA) is approximately 90 km north-west, about a 1.5–2 hour drive by car or taxi.

By Train

There is no railway in Ayun Pa. The nearest train stations are in Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen province) or Dieu Tri (Quy Nhon).

By Car / Road

Ayun Pa is connected by road to Pleiku and Tuy Hoa. Local buses run from Pleiku's Duc Long Bus Station to Ayun Pa, taking about 2 hours. National Route 25 connects the town eastward to Tuy Hoa on the coast.

The town is small enough to walk around. Xe om and taxis are limited but available for trips to surrounding villages.

• Ayun River — The river that gives the town its name; the surrounding valley is scenic, especially in the wet season.

• Jarai and Bahnar villages — Traditional stilt-house villages around Ayun Pa where indigenous weaving and gong music can be experienced.

• Visit the traditional villages around Ayun Pa to observe Jarai and Bahnar culture, including gong performances.

• Walk along the Ayun River in the late afternoon.

Simple quán cơm and pho stalls are found near the market and along the main streets. Local Jarai specialties include gỏi lá (herb and fermented pork salad) and cơm lam. Vegetarian options are limited.

Vietnamese coffee is available at small roadside cafes. Bottled water is recommended.

Basic guesthouses may be available in the town centre, with rates from around 200,000 dong per night. For more options, Pleiku is about 1.5 hours north.

The local market in the Cheo Reo ward serves the surrounding agricultural area, selling fresh produce, coffee, and woven textiles. Bargaining is expected.

• Pleiku (90 km north-west) — Provincial capital with airport, Biển Hồ lake, and restaurants.
• Tuy Hoa (80 km east) — Coastal city with beaches and Cham ruins.
• Buon Ma Thuot (150 km south-west) — Coffee capital of Vietnam with museums and national parks.
• Krong Pa (30 km south-east) — Rural district with traditional Jarai villages.