DA LAT

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Da Lat, Vietnam is generally during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this time, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius (59 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit). The skies are clearer, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Da Lat's highland location gives it a temperate climate, which is quite different from the rest of Vietnam. It can get chilly at night, so it's advisable to bring some warm clothing. However, it's worth noting that Da Lat can be crowded with tourists during the peak season.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of November or April. During these months, the weather is still relatively pleasant, and you may enjoy a quieter experience. However, keep in mind that April is the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers.

It's advisable to avoid visiting Da Lat during the rainy season, which typically extends from May to October. Heavy rainfall can make outdoor activities challenging, and landslides are more likely to occur in mountainous areas during this time.

Overall, the best time to visit Da Lat is during the dry season, particularly from December to March, for the most enjoyable experience.

How to Get There

There are several ways to get to Da Lat, Vietnam, depending on your starting point and preferences. Here are some common transportation options:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Da Lat is Lien Khuong Airport (DLI), located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. Several domestic airlines operate flights to Da Lat from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to reach Da Lat.

• By Bus: Da Lat is well-connected to various cities in Vietnam through an extensive bus network. You can find buses departing from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Da Nang. The journey duration and ticket prices vary depending on the distance traveled. It's advisable to book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

• By Motorbike: If you enjoy road trips and have experience riding a motorbike, you can rent one and ride to Da Lat. There are scenic routes and mountain passes that offer breathtaking views along the way. Just be sure to have the necessary licenses and follow traffic regulations.

• By Private Car: Hiring a private car or taxi is a convenient option, especially if you prefer a more comfortable and flexible journey. You can arrange for a private car or taxi from nearby cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Nha Trang. It's advisable to negotiate the fare in advance or book through reputable transportation services.

Top Attractions to See in Da Lat

Lakes & Waterfalls

• Xuan Huong Lake: Xuan Huong Lake is a scenic lake located right in the heart of Da Lat. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride on the lake. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Tuyen Lam Lake: Tuyen Lam Lake is a large and serene lake surrounded by lush greenery. It offers a tranquil escape and is often referred to as the "Lake of Paradise." Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, explore the nearby hills and pine forests, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

• Datanla Lake: Datanla Lake is a serene lake surrounded by pine forests. It's a peaceful retreat where visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The lake offers activities such as paddle boating, fishing, and picnicking. It's a tranquil spot to unwind and immerse oneself in the natural surroundings.

• Datanla Waterfall: Datanla Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located in a lush forested area. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, canyoning, and taking a thrilling ride on the alpine coaster. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic walk along the well-maintained paths surrounding the waterfall.

• Elephant Falls (Thac Voi): Elephant Falls, also known as Lieng Rowoa Waterfall, is a majestic waterfall located in a beautiful natural setting. It's named Elephant Falls because the shape of the rocks resembles an elephant's head. Visitors can admire the cascading waters, walk down to the base of the waterfall, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

• Prenn Falls: Prenn Falls is a cascading waterfall located in a park setting. The park offers various attractions, including a cable car ride that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as walking across the suspension bridge, riding the roller coaster, or exploring the flower gardens.

• Pongour Waterfall: Pongour Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and largest waterfalls in the region. It features multiple tiers of cascading water, surrounded by lush greenery and rock formations. Visitors can enjoy the mesmerizing views, take a refreshing swim in the natural pools, or relax in the tranquil atmosphere.

• Cam Ly Waterfall: Cam Ly Waterfall is a small but picturesque waterfall located near the city center of Da Lat. It's a tranquil spot where visitors can take a break from the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy the soothing sounds of cascading water. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

Cultural

• Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse): The Crazy House, also known as Hang Nga Guesthouse, is a unique and surreal architectural project designed by Vietnamese architect Dang Viet Nga. It resembles a fairy tale with its unconventional shapes and whimsical elements. Visitors can explore the quirky interiors and enjoy the panoramic views of Da Lat from its various viewpoints.

• Lam Dong Museum: Lam Dong Museum is a museum that showcases the history, culture, and traditions of the Lam Dong province. It provides insights into the region's indigenous communities, the development of Da Lat, and its unique cultural heritage. The museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and displays that narrate the story of the province.

• Truc Lam Pagoda: Truc Lam Pagoda is a serene Buddhist pagoda located on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and ornate architecture. The pagoda offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and serves as a spiritual retreat for many visitors.

• Linh Son Pagoda: Linh Son Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the hills of Da Lat. The pagoda is known for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning architecture, and intricate woodwork. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the ornate decorations, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a serene and spiritual place that offers a peaceful escape and a deeper connection to the local culture and traditions.

• Linh Phuoc Pagoda: Linh Phuoc Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda known for its intricate mosaic artwork. The pagoda features stunning architectural details made from broken pieces of glass and ceramic tiles. It's a unique and visually captivating place of worship that showcases the skill and artistry of the craftsmen.

• Linh An Pagoda: also known as Ve Chai Pagoda, is a charming Buddhist temple located in the hills of Da Lat. The pagoda is known for its impressive 49-meter-long statue of the reclining Buddha, making it one of the largest of its kind in Vietnam. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and find serenity in the peaceful atmosphere surrounding the pagoda.

• The Statue of Golden Buddha at Linh Phong Pagoda: is a striking and majestic sight in Da Lat. The statue stands tall and gleams with golden brilliance, captivating visitors with its serene presence. It serves as a symbol of Buddhist devotion and reverence, inviting contemplation and reflection in the tranquil surroundings of the pagoda.

• Domaine de Marie Church (Chicken Church): The Domaine de Marie Church, also known as the Chicken Church, is a charming pink church with French Gothic architecture. It's a peaceful and serene place that attracts visitors with its unique design and tranquil surroundings. The church's rose-colored exterior, stained glass windows, and peaceful ambiance make it a popular spot for photography and contemplation.

• Da Lat Cathedral (St. Nicholas Church): Da Lat Cathedral, also known as St. Nicholas Church, is a beautiful cathedral featuring Gothic architecture. It's a significant religious site in Da Lat and stands as a symbol of the city's colonial heritage. The cathedral's impressive stained glass windows, towering spires, and peaceful ambiance make it a popular attraction for visitors. It's also a functioning church where locals gather for worship and prayer.

• Thien Vien Truc Lam: Thien Vien Truc Lam is a Zen Buddhist monastery located in Da Lat. It's known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings. The monastery offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a serene environment for meditation and contemplation. Visitors can explore the monastery, admire the intricate design, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Tuyen Lam Lake Temple (Truc Lam Zen Monastery): Tuyen Lam Lake Temple, also known as Truc Lam Zen Monastery, is a Zen Buddhist monastery located on the shores of Tuyen Lam Lake. It offers a tranquil environment, serene gardens, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, and experience a sense of peace and tranquility.

• Cu Lan Village: Cu Lan Village is a village known for its authentic rural atmosphere and traditional stilt houses. It offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the local communities. Visitors can explore the village, interact with the villagers, learn about their customs and culture, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

• Bao Dai Summer Palace: The Bao Dai Summer Palace was the former residence of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam. It offers a glimpse into the country's history and the life of the royal family. The palace features a blend of Vietnamese and French architectural styles and is surrounded by well-manicured gardens. Inside, you can explore the living quarters, reception rooms, and personal belongings of the royal family.

• Da Lat Railway Station: Da Lat Railway Station is a charming French-style railway station known for its nostalgic ambiance and vintage trains. It's a popular spot for photography and a reminder of Da Lat's colonial history. Visitors can explore the station, admire the architectural details, and even take a scenic train ride to nearby destinations.

• Da Lat Market: Da Lat Market is a bustling market where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. The market is a hub for local produce, handicrafts, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to sample traditional Vietnamese dishes, shop for souvenirs, and experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional market.

Entertainment

• Da Lat Railway Cafe: Da Lat Railway Cafe is a unique dining experience located inside a vintage train carriage. It offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee in a nostalgic setting. The café retains the charm of old train carriages, complete with vintage decor and furnishings. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax, unwind, and soak up the ambiance of a bygone era.

• Love Valley Cable Car: The Love Valley Cable Car offers a scenic ride that provides panoramic views of the Love Valley and the surrounding area. It's a popular attraction for visitors who want to take in the beauty of Da Lat's landscapes from a different perspective. The cable car ride offers a bird's-eye view of the valley, lush greenery, and rolling hills.

• Dalat Palace Golf Club: Dalat Palace Golf Club is a prestigious golf course known for its beautiful surroundings and well-manicured greens. It offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience for golf enthusiasts. The course is set amidst rolling hills, pine forests, and scenic landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop for a round of golf.

Parks & Nature

• Valley of Love (Thung Lung Tinh Yeu): The Valley of Love is a romantic park known for its beautiful landscapes, flowers, and scenic views. It offers a tranquil setting with rolling hills, gardens, and a lake. Visitors can take a leisurely walk, rent bicycles, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride to explore the area.

• Dalat Flower Park: Dalat Flower Park is a stunning garden that showcases a wide variety of flowers and plants. It's a paradise for flower enthusiasts and offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant colors and delightful fragrances. The park is well-maintained and features different themed areas, including a greenhouse and a display of bonsai trees.

• Langbiang Mountain: Langbiang Mountain is the highest peak in the vicinity and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's a popular spot for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the mountain trails, enjoy the fresh air, and take in the stunning vistas from the peak.

• Golden Valley: Golden Valley is a scenic valley with lush vegetation, flower gardens, and a small lake. It's a tranquil oasis where visitors can enjoy nature walks, admire the colorful blooms, and take in the peaceful atmosphere. The valley offers a serene escape from the city and provides a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

• Strawberry Gardens: Da Lat is known for its strawberry farms, where visitors can pick and enjoy fresh strawberries. These gardens offer a unique experience, allowing visitors to handpick strawberries and taste them right at the source. It's a delightful activity for families and fruit enthusiasts.

• Robin Hill: Robin Hill is a hilltop location that offers panoramic views of Da Lat and its surrounding landscapes. It's a popular spot to witness stunning sunrises or sunsets and to capture breathtaking photos. Visitors can reach the hilltop via cable car or hike up the scenic trails to enjoy the panoramic vistas.

• Cu Hill: Cu Hill is known for its beautiful flower gardens and panoramic views. The hill offers a picturesque setting with colorful flower beds, manicured lawns, and well-maintained pathways. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the vibrant blooms, and enjoy the panoramic vistas of Da Lat.

• Cau Dat Tea Plantation: Cau Dat Tea Plantation is a scenic tea plantation located on the outskirts of Da Lat. It's a peaceful retreat where visitors can learn about tea production and enjoy fresh tea. The plantation offers guided tours that provide insight into the cultivation and processing of tea leaves. Visitors can also relax in the plantation's tea house and savor the flavors of freshly brewed tea.

• Elephant Mountain: Elephant Mountain is a scenic spot with a giant statue of an elephant, offering panoramic views of the city. It's a popular viewpoint where visitors can climb up to the elephant statue and enjoy stunning vistas of Da Lat's skyline. The spot is particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset, providing ample photo opportunities.

• Van Thanh Flower Village: Van Thanh Flower Village is a village dedicated to flower cultivation, where visitors can witness the vibrant colors and fragrances of various flowers. It's a delightful place to explore rows of flower fields and greenhouses, with blooms ranging from roses to hydrangeas. Visitors can learn about the flower cultivation process, purchase fresh flowers, or simply enjoy the visual feast of colorful blossoms.

Top 20 Activities

There are numerous activities to enjoy in Da Lat, Vietnam.

Here are some of the top activities to consider during your visit:

1. Visit the Flower Gardens: Da Lat is famous for its beautiful flower gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through places like Dalat Flower Park or explore the colorful blooms at various flower farms and gardens in the city.

2. Explore the Waterfalls: Da Lat is surrounded by scenic waterfalls, such as Datanla Waterfall, Elephant Falls, and Pongour Waterfall. Enjoy the natural beauty, take refreshing dips in the pools, and capture stunning photographs.

3. Take a Cable Car Ride: Experience breathtaking views of Da Lat's landscapes by taking a cable car ride. The Love Valley Cable Car and the Robin Hill Cable Car offer panoramic vistas and a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.

4. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures: Da Lat offers opportunities for thrilling outdoor activities such as canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, and trekking. Explore the picturesque landscapes, conquer mountain peaks, or navigate through canyons and waterfalls.

5. Visit Pagodas and Temples: Da Lat is home to several pagodas and temples, including Truc Lam Pagoda and Linh Phuoc Pagoda. These serene and spiritual sites offer a peaceful ambiance, stunning architecture, and panoramic views.

6. Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in the unique flavors of Da Lat's cuisine. Visit local markets, street food stalls, and restaurants to try dishes like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), banh trang nuong (grilled rice paper), and local specialties featuring fresh vegetables and locally sourced ingredients.

7. Explore Da Lat's Lakes: Da Lat is dotted with beautiful lakes, such as Xuan Huong Lake and Tuyen Lam Lake. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax and take in the serene atmosphere.

8. Discover Da Lat's Coffee Culture: Vietnam is known for its coffee, and Da Lat is no exception. Explore the city's vibrant coffee culture by visiting local coffee shops and cafes, and savor the unique flavors of Vietnamese coffee.

9. Experience Da Lat's Night Market: Visit the bustling Da Lat Night Market, where you can find a wide range of local products, handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and indulge in the flavors of Vietnamese street cuisine.

10. Take a Historical Tour: Explore the historical sites and landmarks of Da Lat, such as the Bao Dai Summer Palace and the Da Lat Railway Station. Learn about the city's colonial past, its unique architecture, and its significance in Vietnamese history.

11. Enjoy a Boat Ride on Xuan Huong Lake: Take a relaxing boat ride on Xuan Huong Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

12. Go Strawberry Picking: Da Lat is famous for its strawberry farms. Visit a local farm and try your hand at picking fresh strawberries straight from the fields.

13. Visit the Dalat University Campus: Take a stroll around the Dalat University campus, known for its beautiful architecture, gardens, and tranquil setting.

14. Experience the Maze Bar: Visit the Maze Bar, a unique bar with intricate maze-like corridors that lead to different hidden rooms and seating areas. It's an unconventional and fun place to explore while enjoying drinks and live music.

15. Explore the Art Galleries: Da Lat is home to various art galleries showcasing local and contemporary artworks. Visit galleries such as Nguyen Trung Truc Art Space or Apricot Gallery to appreciate the vibrant art scene of the city.

16. Go on a Motorbike Adventure: Rent a motorbike and embark on an adventure through the winding roads and scenic landscapes surrounding Da Lat. Explore hidden trails, visit local villages, and discover off-the-beaten-path attractions.

17. Relax in Hot Springs: Indulge in relaxation at one of the hot springs near Da Lat, such as Thap Cham Hot Springs or Suoi Vang Hot Springs. Enjoy soaking in natural mineral-rich waters and rejuvenating yourself.

18. Visit the Me Linh Coffee Garden: Explore a coffee plantation at Me Linh Coffee Garden and learn about the coffee production process. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while surrounded by the lush greenery of the plantation.

19. Take a Horseback Ride: Experience a horseback ride through the scenic landscapes of Da Lat. Horseback riding tours are available, allowing you to explore the countryside and enjoy the fresh air.

20. Attend the Da Lat Flower Festival: If you happen to visit during the Da Lat Flower Festival (which is usually held every two years), don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant floral displays, cultural performances, and parades celebrating the city's flowers.