Dalat
City Of Eternal Spring
Dalat still captivates visitors with its unique charm, blending Vietnamese culture with French influences that date back to the colonial era. The city boasts numerous architectural gems, including the iconic Dalat Railway Station, crafted by French architects Moncet and Reveron, and the whimsical Hang Nga guest house, commonly known as Crazy House. Both locations offer intriguing insights into the city's vibrant history.
Photo : pinterest.com
Dalat remains a favored destination among travelers from Ho Chi Minh City, offering a distinct escape with its pure air, exceptional coffee, and lack of traffic lights at intersections. Unlike the hustle and bustle of larger cities, Dalat features a serene atmosphere devoid of nightlife distractions, appealing to both domestic and international visitors looking for a tranquil getaway.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
The climate in Dalat is temperate, characterized by two distinct seasons: a rainy season from April to late October, and a dry season from November to March. The dry season is the ideal time to explore the city, as the weather is generally more pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities.
The average temperature during the dry season hovers between 12-16 degrees Celsius. In springtime, the beauty of nature is amplified as Sakura blossoms frame Xuan Huong Lake in pink hues, making it a must-see for lovers of the outdoors.
Photo : majamia.com
Dalat is often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," thanks to its consistently mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights, which can dip to as low as 10 degrees Celsius. This unique climate allows Dalat to produce a wide array of temperate fruits and flowers, making it a significant supplier across Vietnam.
Major Attractions
Xuan Huong Lake
This picturesque man-made lake spans an area of 0.25 square kilometers and is located right in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing breeze from the surrounding pine forests and marvel at the lake's changing colors throughout the day.
Bao Dai Palaces
As the last king of the Nguyen dynasty, Bao Dai was enchanted by Dalat's beauty and constructed several retreat palaces that represent exquisite examples of Indochinese architecture.
Dalat Station
Established in 1903 and completed in 1932, Dalat Station connects the city with Thap Cham, now part of Phan Rang Province. Though damaged during the war, the station has since re-opened and serves as a cultural and historical site. This unique rack railway station is distinct to Dalat and Switzerland, earning its designation as a National Cultural and Historical Heritage site and remaining a popular destination for young travelers.
Local Cafes
Dalat's cafes are predominantly designed in vintage, classical, and Indochinese styles. A leisurely walk around the city will reveal countless options that perfectly suit your mood. Enjoying a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate in the cool Dalat evenings while listening to French music and observing the daily lives of locals can create a love affair with this charming city.
Where to Stay
There are numerous accommodations and homestays to consider in Dalat, which can make choosing the right place a bit overwhelming. For those wishing to partake in various activities and easily access attractions, centrally located hotels are strongly recommended.
Alternatively, booking a bungalow slightly away from the city center can promise a tranquil and quiet experience typical of a resort town ambiance.
Photo : vnexpress.net
If you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or Vietnamese national holidays, reserving accommodations well in advance is wise, as finding available rooms can become quite challenging during these times.
How to Get There
Dalat is well-connected by flights from major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Upon landing, passengers can take a bus for approximately $3 to reach the city center, with the journey lasting around 30 to 45 minutes.
Photo : dalatrip.com
For those seeking an adventurous route, a road trip from Nha Trang or Ho Chi Minh City can offer stunning vistas of Vietnam's diverse landscape, taking around 2.5 hours from Nha Trang and about 7 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Keep in mind that the winding roads can be challenging, so planning your trip to avoid nighttime travel is advisable.
| 17.93°C | ||
| Humidity | 94% | |
| Wind | 2.71 km/h | |
| Sunrise | 05:32 AM | |
Valley of Love in Dalat
Domaine de Marie Church
Xuan Huong Lake
Hang Nga Guesthouse (Crazy House)
Dalat in January
Dalat in February
Dalat in March
Dalat in April
Dalat in May
Dalat in June
Dalat in July
Dalat in August
Dalat in September
Dalat in October
Dalat in November
Dalat in December
Best Of Dalat
See, Eat, Sleep, Shop, Stay - The Best of Dalat
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy souvenirs in Dalat?
Dalat is a paradise for shopping lovers, offering a wide array of products from local teas and coffees to wine, fruit jams, handicrafts, and silk items. Here are some top destinations to explore:
Dalat Central Market
Dalat Night Market
L’ang Farm Outlet
XQ Historical Village
Biofresh Organic Farm
Where should I stay in Dalat?
Staying in the city center is highly recommended, thanks to a wide array of modern and reasonably priced hotels. It's incredibly convenient for exploring iconic landmarks, dining at diverse restaurants, and enjoying shopping districts. However, it can be noisy. If you seek a tranquil escape, consider the resorts around Tuyen Lam Lake, which offer a serene environment perfect for relaxation.
What are the must-see waterfalls in Dalat?
Dalat boasts a stunning array of waterfalls that are definitely worth exploring. While it can be challenging to visit them all, here are some must-see waterfalls that you shouldn't miss:
Datanla Falls
Pongour Waterfall
Elephant Falls
Prenn Falls
How can I get around Dalat?
Dalat is a compact city, making it easy to explore via motorbike taxi or bicycle, which can be rented near Xuan Huong Lake. For destinations farther from the city center, taking a taxi or booking a private car is more convenient, although it can be pricey. Adventurous travelers might consider renting a motorbike to explore independently, but ensure you have a valid driver's license. Motorbikes are readily available for rent on Nguyen Minh Khai Street, with prices typically ranging from VND 100,000 to VND 150,000.
What are the main attractions of Dalat?
Dalat is renowned not only for its cool, pleasant climate but also for its diverse attractions and breathtaking landscapes. When visiting Dalat, here are some must-see places to include in your itinerary:
Lake Xuan Huong
Da Lat Railway Station
St. Nicholas Cathedral
Bao Dai’s Summer Palace
Truc Lam Zen Monastery
The Crazy House
