Bao Dai Summer Palace
Da Lat, the city of love, not only attracts tourists because of its charming landscape, comfortable weather but also the number of French architectures, typically the antique villas. Located some 2.5 km south from the heart of the city, Bao Dai’s Summer Palace is a must-visit villa for almost all travelers.
Location & History
The Bao Dai Summer Palace was constructed between 1933 and 1937 during the reign of King Bao Dai, the final monarch of Vietnam's feudal era. This architectural gem, designed in the Art Deco style, is nestled within a picturesque pine forest near the Pasteur Institute in Da Lat. Originally intended as a summer retreat for King Bao Dai and his royal family to escape the heat, it later served as both a residence and office for the king after the re-establishment of French colonial power in 1950. Today, visitors can find the palace at Trieu Viet Vuong Street.
What To See
Exploring this two-story structure offers travelers insight into the lifestyle of the royal family through its 25 rooms and various amenities. The ground floor served as the king's workspace, featuring the office, guest room, and reception area. The upper level accommodated the personal living quarters of the king and his family. Notably, the king's bedroom boasts a stunning "moon watching balcony" where the royal couple could enjoy the beauty of the moonlight. Each room reflects the unique personality and status of its occupant; for instance, the eldest son’s room is adorned in luxurious yellow hues, while the Queen’s room is marked by delicate feminine touches.
Photo: daytripvietnam.com
Inside the palace, visitors can admire a variety of preserved artifacts, including exquisite sculptures of the royal family, a life-sized white bust of Bao Dai, a smaller golden and brown bust of his father, Khai Dinh, a photograph of Angkor Wat gifted to King Bao Dai by King Sihanouk of Cambodia, and an intricately engraved glass map of Vietnam.
How To Get There
The Bao Dai Summer Palace is recognized as one of the top attractions in Da Lat. Visitors can reach it within minutes from the Da Lat central market by taxi or xe om (motorbike taxi). The palace is open for tours from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. The entry fee is approximately $1. Note that there is an additional charge for photography. Guests are required to remove their shoes upon entering.
Useful Information
- Location: Dinh Bao Dai, Dalat
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: VND 10,000
- Hours: 7AM - 4PM
- Distance to city center: 3.3km (2.1 mi)
Dalat Railway Station
Dalat not only surprises tourists by the beautiful landscape, comfortable weather but also by the imprint of French architectures on this land. One of the most unique French monuments to recommend is Dalat Railway Station.
Dalat Flower Gardens
From the city’s immense one to local farms, people are supposed to be drown in the beauty of this “Kingdom of flowers”.
Langbiang Mountain
Lang Biang Mountains is located on Lang Biang Plateau, Lac Duong District, Lam Dong Province. It’s only about 12km from Dalat centre and sometimes called Lam Vien Mountain as well.
