Banlung

Waterfalls
Each of these charge a 2,000 riel entry fee in addition to whatever you shell out to get there in the first place.

There are several local waterfalls, and they are best seen during the rainy season when the water volume is at its highest and the vegetation is lush and green. Cha Ong is the most toured waterfall in the area, and is 18 metres high. The rock area behind the waterfall has been eroded away over the centuries by the waterfall, thus allowing you to walk behind the fall. Kan Chang is another fall, this one approximately 7 metres in height. It empties into a large pool in which it is possible to swim. Ka Tieng is a third waterfall, this one 10 metres tall, in the jungle which also allows swimming. Further out from town are Ou'Sean Lair Waterfall about 26 km SE with 4 tiers, Ou'Sensranoh Waterfall about 9 km SE and 18m high, Veal Rum Plan stone field about 14 km N and another crater lake about 35km SE

Wat Rahtanharahm

Located about 1 kilometre out of town at the base of Eisey Patamak Mountain. Past the Wat and up the hill about half a kilometre is a large reclining Buddha with a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside.

Mining Tour

As you might have figured out from all the gem dealers in town, Banlung and the Ratanakiri province is a significant gem mining area. Miners work in the Bokeo mines about 36km from the town extracting the gems which sometimes end up for sale in Banlung's market. For more information on a tour, ask your guesthouse.

Rubber Plantations

On the way to the waterfalls, there are a few large rubber plantations.

Banlung is situated near several spectacular natural attractions, including waterfalls, lakes and natural parks, and has hill tribe villages.

Virachey National Park
37km northeast of town and borders [[Laos]] and [[Vietnam]]

It's chock full of jungle and mountains, and hasn't been completely explored yet. In the wet season, not all areas of the park are accessible. The Ministry of Environment Biodiversity and Protected Areas Management Project offers jungle treks into the park, guided by a park ranger and community guide. Their office is located near the center of Banlung.

Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake
4,000 riel (US$1)

A 700,000 year old volcanic crater lake in the Yeak Laom Yaklom Commune Protected Area. The lake itself, as well as the surrounding areas, are considered sacred by the local tribal minorities, and many a legend abound about this lake. There are docks on the lake, and swimming and picnicking are options here. There is also a hiking trail which winds around the lake. Along the trail there is a visitors centre displaying some objects and folklore of the local hill tribes.