Far from the bustle of big cities, dirty air and people always in a hurry, there is a place of eternal spring, or, as it is also called, “little Paris”. Dalat is a city that simply cannot help but be called fabulous. Having arrived here, it is no longer possible to remain the same, because the fresh mountain air penetrates not only into the lungs, but also into the heart, leaving there the memory of the Asian sun. What to visit first?
Excursions
Exciting excursions for vacationers and travelers in 350 cities around the world: Tripster.ru is a service of unusual excursions from local residents and guides who can tell you in an interesting and exciting way about the most interesting things in their cities.
Xuan Huong Lake
An incredibly beautiful lake of artificial origin in the very center. A great place to have a good time in nature. You can not only sit by the shore or swim on a boat, but also ride in a horse-drawn carriage.
Once upon a time, the French called it "Grand Lac", but in 1953, the lake was renamed in honor of the Vietnamese poetess Ho Xuan Huong. Near the lake there is a cozy garden that contains more than 300 different species of plants, most of which bloom all year round.
Cathedral of St. Nicholas
Located close to the lake, The Romanesque temple is the main landmark and the tallest building in the city. Interestingly, on the main tower there is a steel rooster, which, according to locals, is both a symbol of France and a symbol of repentance. But, in fact, the rooster plays the role of a weather vane, with the help of which you can determine the wind speed and make a weather forecast.
Important! You can get inside the temple during daily masses, but visiting it at sunset, you can feel a completely different charm of the Gothic cathedral.
Crazy House
Real crazy hotel-museum, where you can spend one of the most unusual nights of your life.
Dalat is home to one of the craziest buildings in the world and a true work of art. It would seem that everything is wrong here: crooked windows, doors, stairs and tunnels, it is precisely because of the bold absurdity of the architect that the house is so popular among tourists.
The house is open to visitors from 8.30 to 19.00 every day, ticket price is 40,000 VND.
This truly fabulous house resembles a huge tree with a web tangled in its branches and magical creatures living there. I wonder what secrets he hides?
Bao Dai Summer Palace
On one of the hills of Dalat, with a panorama of the entire city, is the summer residence of the last emperor of Vietnam. The mansion houses a museum with 25 rooms, where down to the smallest details the life of the royal family has been preserved. With each change of power, the palace changed hands, and once even served as the general headquarters.
In case of coups d'etat or revolution, the palace has several underground passages that connect it with the surrounding area.
You can visit the palace from 7:00 to 11:00 and from 13:30 to 16:00, the entrance fee is 8,000 VND.
Dalat Flower Park
The place where the flower festival is held every year is home not only to Asian plants, but also to hundreds of plants brought from abroad. Climbing the stairs at the end of the park, you can visit the local rose garden, perhaps it was there that the Little Prince once looked for his Rose.
The cost of visiting the park is 30,000 VND for adults and 15,000 VND for children.
Golden Buddha
The golden deity with a lotus flower in his hand can definitely be considered the patron saint of Dalat. Due to its considerable height, the golden statue can be seen from afar. In addition, at the foot of the Buddha you can admire wonderful panorama of the city.
Da Lat train station
An interesting attraction for all those who do not like banality. The station was destroyed during the Vietnam War, but nowadays it provides access to Traimat village and Linh Phuoc pagoda. Traveling on a vintage train, you can feel the atmosphere of pre-war Dalat.
Trains depart 5 times a day at 7:45, 09:50, 11:55, 14:00, 16:05.
Da Lat market
An ideal place to find interesting souvenirs, ranging from artichoke tea to watches or cosmetics. The colorful market attracts with the brightness of national costumes, abundance of goods, and the hospitality of local traders. Despite, that the prices are quite high, You can negotiate a great discount if you are persistent.
Important! Works both day and night.
Kamli waterfall ( Cam Ly Falls)
https://youtu.be/VEo9gY_hm9M
It is located just two kilometers from the city and is one of the most attractive for tourists. At a height of 15 meters, it falls in several cascades.
Camli stream flows into Xuan Huong Lake, and, encountering a stepped cliff on its way, forms a waterfall. It is located right in the middle of a green park, with quaint bridges, flower beds and cozy alleys.
The waterfall area can be visited daily from 7.00 to 17.00 for 10,000 VND.
Cable car
Using the funicular, you can get from Robin Hill directly to Chuk Lam Monastery. From the height you can see a wonderful landscape of coniferous forest, mountains, swamps and small lakes. And although the journey takes only 10 minutes, with its help you can become a little closer to Vietnamese Nature.
The cable car operates from 7.00 to 17.00, the fare is 50,000 VND.
Chuc Lak Thien Vien Monastery
There is so much on the territory of the monastery: a pagoda, a library, a tower, a park, and even a real school of Buddhism. They say that every tourist can live here for two weeks completely free of charge if he does simple work for the monastery.
Prenn Park and Waterfall
Another great opportunity to take some colorful pictures near a majestic waterfall falling from a height of 10 meters. Walk over the water on a bamboo bridge, stroll in an exotic park that surrounds the waterfall on all sides, and even... ride an elephant? Any whim!
Datanla Falls
Truly a magical place waterfall 350 meters long V. No wonder the Vietnamese call it “Fairy Stream”. According to legend, it was here that these magical creatures flew at dawn to swim in the crystal clear stream.
Note! The waterfall consists of three levels; to visit each level, tourists are provided with a sleigh, a cable car, or a special elevator.
Elephant Falls
One of the most powerful streams in Dalat, the water falls from a height of more than 30 meters, and its width is about a hundred meters! Unfortunately, you can only visit this place on your own; there are no excursions here. Another Vietnamese legend is associated with this place, and of course, a very romantic one.
Once upon a time, a couple in love, who were not allowed to be together, threw themselves off a high cliff so as not to let anyone separate them. Their death was mourned by an elephant; according to legend, it was his tears that turned into strong streams. But, unfortunately, the elephant slipped and fell straight into the abyss.
Important! The path to the foot is difficult and sometimes even dangerous, so you need to be very careful.
Pongur Falls
What distinguishes Pongur waterfalls from other waterfalls is its unusual width (approximately 40 meters), its streams cascade over seven natural terraces. Due to the wide ledges of Pongour, on each of the seven steps you can swim, relax, or simply soak up the sun.
But, due to the fact that the short road to the waterfall takes approximately 30 km, it is not very popular among tourists.
Entrance fee is 10,000 dong, you can visit it from 7.00 to 16.00.
Mount Langbiang
This is the highest mountain in the entire area, with five volcanic peaks and an observation deck at an altitude of 1950 m. Another legend about local Romeo and Juliet is associated with its two peaks, standing very close to each other. Lovers Ho K'Lang and Ho Biang were from warring tribes, but one day they decided to run away to live in the mountains together.
When the girl got sick, the guy asked her tribe for help, but one of the ill-wishers shot an arrow, and it hit the girl. K'Lang could not stand the separation from his beloved and died of melancholy. Since then, their names have been combined and the mountain where they lived was named after them.
Golden Valley Park ( Golden Valley
The park is completely new built in 2005 15 km from the center of Dalat, invites everyone to find what the soul requires. Here you can read or chat, sitting in cozy gazebos, walk along paving stone paths, or just breathe the healing air of a pine forest.
But lovers of active recreation can also find interesting activities, for example, archery, billiards or fishing.
Valley of Love Park
The name speaks for itself, and seems to encourage unexpected romantic encounters, boat rides and confessions under the moon. There is even a real Lovers’ Tree, on which, as a sign of their love, couples tie ribbons and make wishes, and they also hang locks on the railing of the bridge in front of the site.
In addition, the abundance of different types of flowers and plants pleases the eye. The park is themed, so almost all the statues or symbols that can be found here are about love.
The Valley of Love is located 6 km from the city center, the entrance fee is 40,000 VND.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda ( Linh Phuoc Pagoda)
This unusual landmark was built by monks in the last century. To save money, they creatively created a mosaic from all unnecessary materials: broken glass, plastic or ceramics. The temple is famous for local Buddhist pilgrimages and an atmosphere of incredible tranquility.
So far, the territory of the pagoda is quite small, but every year the monks come up with new interesting objects. At the moment, there is Great Bell weighing over 10 tons, a seven-story tower decorated with dragon figures, handmade wooden furniture, and much more.
Important! The pagoda is located 8 km from Dalat, in the small town of Trai Mat.
Coffee plantations
A dream for any coffee lover, entire fields of amazing Arabica beans. There is a shop next to the plantation where you can view and buy a variety of coffees., as well as a cafe with a terrace, where, in order not to walk far, it can be prepared and served right away.
It is also suggested to choose roasted or unroasted beans, of which there are also several types. Coffee trees bloom with beautiful white flowers and have a subtle pleasant smell, not like the one that everyone is used to smelling in their mugs, so it is especially interesting to watch them during flowering.
What to see in Dalat in 2 days?
How to set priorities correctly if you have tour just for a couple of days and want to do everything without missing anything interesting?
Read more about Hang Nga Guest House in.
Dalat Flower Park
A huge park in the city of Dalat, you can get here either on foot or by taxi (from the city center approximately 40−50 thousand dong). This botanical park was founded by French colonialists in 1966. There are so many plants here!
There are also greenhouses on site where you can buy your favorite specimens. By the way, only in one city in Vietnam - Dalat - you can buy bulbs of all kinds of orchids (you can take them home with you in your luggage), in other cities only sprouts of these unusual flowers are sold, which Russian customs prohibits from importing into the Russian Federation.
All photos from the Flower Park in Dalat:
Entrance fee to Flower Prak - 30 thousand dong ($1.3).And not far from the Garden of Flowers you can see this unusual Catholic church, which, from afar, is a trip to a Buddhist pagoda:
We saw the top of the “pagoda” from a hill in the flower garden and decided to look at it, it turned out that it was a Catholic church
Where is the flower garden in Dalat on the map:Linh Son Pagoda (in the center of Da Lat)
A small pagoda located directly in the city, so you can even visit it on foot. The pagoda itself is unremarkable; inside there is a statue of Buddha and a bell. But its territory is beautiful, there are many sculptures, a quiet garden and a view from the hill onto the streets.
All photos of Lin Son Pagoda in Da Lat:
Linh Son Pagoda on the map of Dalat (how to get to the pagoda from the city center):Prenn Park and waterfalls
The second most popular (after the park with electric sleighs and cable cars) place to visit in Dalat. The park is famous not only for its waterfall (which, by the way, is very modest), but also for elephant and ostrich rides. The park is beautiful and large, it’s nice to take a walk here. You can also, for a fee, dress up in national costumes and take pictures against the backdrop of beautiful nature, which is what we did.
Entry to Prenn Park costs 30,000 dong ($1.3).
Read the article about Prenn waterfalls.
Datanla Park and Waterfalls (cable car and electric sled)
Datanla Park and Waterfalls are located just 5.5 km from Dalat. The park is famous for its electric sleigh (as on) and cable car. This is a must-visit place for absolutely all tourists coming to Dalat, so there are always crowds of people here. Read a more detailed story about our visit to Datanla Park.
Our photos from Datanla Park in Dalat:
How to get to Datanla Falls from Dalat using the map:A magnificent hotel with a huge park area and a pond near Datanla Park:
Pongur waterfall in Dalat
The most beautiful and unusual waterfall in the vicinity of Dalat! And the most beautiful waterfall we have ever seen. Of course, we visited it at a good time and it was full of water. During the dry season, the impression may be spoiled.
The waterfall is located far away, 50 km from the city, but it is worth a visit!
Linh Phuoc Pagoda
The pagoda is famous for the fact that many different fragments were used in its decoration. In the main building (a bell tower of 7 floors), you can climb to the top floor and see the surroundings of Dalat from above:
How to get to Linh Phuoc Pagoda from Dalat using the map:
Truc Lam Pagoda
It's close to the Datanla Waterfalls, so it makes sense to combine a visit to these Dalat attractions. Entrance to the territory is free.
This pagoda struck us with its tranquility. Here you want to sit on the parapet and spend several hours in contemplation. The atmosphere is complemented by wind chime bells hanging on all the trees and buildings.
The city of Dalat, located in the mountains, was built by the French at the beginning of the twentieth century. At that time, Vietnam was still colonized by France. And soon this place became a very popular resort among the French elite. For them, Dalat was a real escape from the heat of the coast.
The city is sometimes called the “Swiss Alps in Vietnam.” Due to its location, the climate here is very mild and favorable.
Despite the fact that the town is not so big, here you can admire a large number of waterfalls, wander through numerous flower parks, and enjoy the local landscapes.
Located in Nguyen Huu Hao Palace, the museum offers a very extensive exhibition on the life of the local people. National costumes, musical instruments, and handicrafts are presented here. To complete the picture, scenes from the life of the Vietnamese in miniature and life-size were recreated in the premises.
The history of the city of Dalat itself, including the war period, is widely covered. Also on the territory of the museum there is an ethno-village where you can order a photo session in folk costumes.
Location: 4 - Hùng Vương.
Crazy House, translated as “Mad House,” is the creation of a Vietnamese woman architect, Madame Nga. At one time, Madame Nga studied at the Moscow Architectural Institute, and was a big fan of the architect Gaudi.
Returning home, she decided to realize her architectural fantasies and began building this house, which is a combination of a museum, a mini-hotel and an art gallery.
The house resembles a mixture of a tropical fairy-tale forest with passages and corridors, like hollows cut into huge trees, and unearthly landscapes and architecture, where you will not find a single right angle. The most amazing thing is that all this is made of modern material, reinforcement and concrete.
The hotel house continues to expand and be built, bringing the creator’s fantasies into reality.
Location: 03 - Huynh Thuc Khang Street.
Bao Dai's Summer Palace is the palace of a real emperor, where you can get an insight into the life of twentieth-century Vietnamese aristocrats. Here you can see such ordinary things of the emperor as a luxurious sauna or a tanning machine.
The rooms feature preserved furnishings with documents and photographs of the emperor's family. Unfortunately, access to the basements where the entrances to the tunnels are located is closed. According to eyewitnesses, it was possible to use them unnoticed in the outskirts of the city.
Location: 4 - Trần Hưng Đạo, Phường 3.
The main market is located on the main square of the city. Everything can be found here. From a variety of fruits to local souvenirs.
In the evening, the main square also turns into a center where they sell a variety of food. Here you can buy and immediately cook a variety of mollusks, shells, frogs and other exotic food. For the convenience of walkers, plastic tables and chairs are placed around the entire perimeter where you can sit down and have a snack.
Linh Son Pagoda was built not so long ago, in the forties of the 20th century. It has no historical value, but is also considered a cultural landmark of the city of Dalat. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a figure of a reclining Buddha, from whom you can make a wish and rub your elbow or toes. The main thing is that the desire is not material.
The pagoda is surrounded by a garden where you can admire sculptures and cool off in the heat by a small pond with lilies. There is a large bronze bell in the gazebo in the courtyard, which is rung at special moments.
Once you reach the top of the hill, you can see a huge bronze figure of Buddha sitting on a lotus. The weight of the sculpture is more than 1000 kilograms. Below the Buddha himself is the entrance to the temple. And from the platform you can admire the view of the city that this Buddha is called upon to protect.
Xuan Huong is an artificial lake created after the construction of a dam in the early 20th century. Named after the 17th century poetess. You can ride on boats and swan catamarans, and ride a horse-drawn carriage around the lake and just stroll around, enjoying the evening.
One of the main attractions of the city is the Flower Park, located on the northeastern part of Xuan Huong Lake. A sea of flowers of various colors and shades is planted here. The flower beds are intricately designed, the lawns are unusually trimmed. In the greenhouses you can admire orchids. And buy seeds of the flowers you like in local shops.
Dalat railway station is considered the oldest and most beautiful station in Indochina. It was built in the 30s of the 20th century. Currently it is a historical site and is used as entertainment for tourists. You can ride along it for 12 kilometers and admire the surroundings. However, the train leaves only once a day, at 14:00.
On the platform you can see a Soviet steam locomotive. Inside there is a small cafe where you can have a cup of coffee.
Location: Nguyen Trai Street.
The Du Sinh Catholic Church was built in the mid-twentieth century on the initiative of a priest from the royal family. It is interesting because its appearance shows both Romanesque and oriental architectural features. From here you have a beautiful view of the city and surrounding area.
The cable car leads from Dalat to Thien Vien Monastery, which is located on the outskirts of the city. The road is quite long, and during the trip you have time to enjoy both the view of the city and the surrounding green mountains. Below are houses and gardens of oranges, olives and other fruit trees.
Thien Vien Monastery can be reached by cable car. The monastery itself is surrounded by greenery and flowers. You can walk along the well-kept paths and watch the life of the monastery. However, the residential part of the monastery is closed to the public.
After exploring the area, you can go down to the shore of the lake. The main alley is closed to passage, but you can find a descent on the left.
In the suburbs of Dalat there is a beautiful waterfall called Datanla. The descent to it is possible both traditionally - on foot, and on a kind of Vietnamese roller coaster. When on iron sleds, tourists slide down the slope at a controlled speed among forests and flying tropical birds. And the sleigh is pulled up to the top by cables. The attraction ticket is paid separately.
After driving 10 kilometers from Dalat, you can get to the park with the Prenn waterfall. The peculiarity of the waterfall is that you can walk between the streams of water and the rock. Although the height of the waterfall is small, the rainbow is beautifully reflected in the spray.
In the park you can walk along bamboo bridges, and also ride elephants, ostriches or buffalos for a fee. Feed the crocodiles at the mini-zoo. And by arriving early in the morning on your own, you can avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy the peaceful walk to the fullest.
Pong Gua Falls is the largest waterfall in Vietnam. It is also called "Falling Elephant". Its power is especially visible during the rainy season. When the power of water falls with a roar from a 20-meter height and spreads 100 meters wide.
The beauty of the waterfall can be seen both from above and from below. But it is best to go down in comfortable closed shoes, as the stairs are quite steep and wet from the splashes. It's easy to slip and twist your ankle in flip-flops.
On the mountain slopes you can find many coffee plantations. The local red soil has a beneficial effect on the coffee harvest. At the plantations you can listen to how coffee is grown, dried, and buy coffee as souvenirs at the coffee shop. Fortunately, there are species for every taste.
Silk art workshop and gallery of XQ factory
Entering the silk workshop, you immediately find yourself in a small courtyard, where visitors are greeted by workers in national clothes and treated to tea.
After a short tour and stories about the difficulties of silk embroidery, you can walk around the workshop and gallery on your own.
On the ground floor there is a gallery with ready-made embroidered paintings, which can be purchased immediately. On the second floor you can watch the workers at work.
Silk embroidery is a traditional heritage of Vietnam, passed down from generation to generation. Without this skill, the girl could not be married off. And, looking at the presented paintings, you are amazed at what masterpieces come out from under the delicate fingers of the craftswomen. Some are so airy and voluminous that they seem to be woven from clouds and hanging right in the air.
The Valley of Love is a large park where you can stroll among beautifully decorated flower beds, sculptures and gazebos. Unusual compositions in the form of clocks, teapots, peacocks and other animals are made from flowers. There are a lot of options for a romantic photo shoot here.
The park is roughly divided into two parts. Top and bottom. In the lower area there is a lake, and from the upper area there is a beautiful view of the lake and mountains.
Let's take a look at the sights in Dalat, What to see in Dalat for tourists on their own or with a guided tour. All these places can be visited if you rent a bike. Although, you can also take a taxi or bus. Whatever you prefer. If you have never been to Da Lat, be sure to visit Lam Thi Ni Temple, Vietnamese roller coaster and Datan La Waterfall.
Dalat is an old mountain town founded by the French. It was built as a resort, because the temperature is ideal for humans throughout the year.
Lam Thi Ni Temple
The first attraction in Dalat isLam Thi Ni Temple. The Buddhist temple in Dalat is a truly majestic and beautiful structure built in the mid-20th century. In Lam Ti Ni itself you can take pictures and walk almost everywhere. The most important thing is that it is unique in every part of it. Its peculiarity is that the main materials used for the construction of this temple are fragments of glass, ceramics and porcelain. The height of the central tower is 49 meters, and on the temple grounds you can see a 4-meter statue of Buddha.
You can get to the temple by taxi. The cost of the trip will be $5.
Vietnam roller coaster
Another attraction in Da Lat in Vietnam— Vietnamese roller coaster. Five kilometers from Dalat there is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Vietnam - Datanla Falls. An electric sled, similar to a roller coaster, leads to the foot of the waterfall, on which tourists can go down.
These “Vietnamese roller coasters” lead you down to the waterfall and back up. Tickets for this attraction must be purchased separately. Along the way, you can admire beautiful views of the cascades of the waterfall and all kinds of exotic birds, butterflies and squirrels.
Datanla Falls
The attraction mentioned above in the city of Da Lat in Vietnam-The Datanla Waterfall, despite its small dimensions, is quite lively, runs through a picturesque grove and consists of many cascades. Stylized statues add a special flavor, one of which is located at the entrance where tickets are sold, and the other at the very base of the waterfall.
At the first cascade of the waterfall you can do archery, to the third cascade of the Datanla waterfall you can either walk or ride a cable car. The best option is to buy a one-way ticket, because... and riding the cable car will be very exciting, and walking the whole way is also worth a try. This is the only waterfall in Dalat that can be admired by cable car.
You look out of the cabin, look down and feel alone with nature. The stream is very violent. At the site of the third cascade there is an elevator that can take you even lower.
Crazy House
One of the most famous attractions in Dalet is the madhouse. It can be reached by taxi, but buses with tourists are also brought here. In fact, this place does not hold insane people. This house bears this name because of its original design. In 1990, it was built by the architect, daughter of the former President of Vietnam, Mrs. Dang Viet Nga. That is, in essence, she had carte blanche and unlimited funding to build “Crazy House”. In this house she realized her wildest fantasies. The style of the building is very similar to the style of the famous architect Gaudi. Entry to “Crazy House” is $2.
Train Station
If you are thinking about what to see in Dalat, then do not forget about the train station. It is recognized as a national architectural monument. The station building was built by architects from France in 1932. But later, as it was no longer needed, the station ceased to be operational. Previously, only rich people used railway transport, so the stations were built grandiose, suitable for visitors.
Currently the station operates solely as a museum, but the Vietnamese government has plans to modernize the station and bring it into regular operation.
Pongour waterfall
—Pongour waterfall. This is the largest and, perhaps, the most picturesque of the waterfalls in Vietnam. It can be seen in all its glory during the rainy season, when the rivers of Vietnam become full and the waterfall gains power and strength. It seems to cover the hill from which it falls with a soft foam blanket, consisting, as if of a lace of bubbles.
Photographers especially love it. Long exposures produce stunning images. Water streams, splashing on the rock ledges, turn into viscous streams. Do not deny yourself the pleasure of getting yourself some picturesque photos.
Silk factory
Dalat (Vietnam) attractions— Silk factory. The silk factory, which is located in Dalat, is not just a factory, but an entire art gallery created in the 90s of the 20th century. Here you can observe the traditional Vietnamese art of embroidering silk paintings.
The factory employs girls who have been taught embroidery here for many years. During their training, they study everything from the arts of form, color, history and literature to etiquette and meditation. Subjects for paintings are invented by artists, mostly men. Then the girls spend months, and sometimes years, creating a canvas based on the layout of the drawing. Here you can purchase paintings made of silk of the finest work or make an individual order.
garden of flowers
Dalat city in Vietnam attractions—Garden of flowers. This amazing park is famous for its variety of beautiful flowers. There are about 300 species here. It's no surprise that this popular destination is considered a living museum, housing a breathtaking collection of local and exotic flowers.
Don't miss the wonderful opportunity to visit a luxurious garden and give yourself and your loved ones a stunning holiday!
Valley of Love
Sights of Dalat on your own—Valley of Love. “Valley of Love” in Dalat is very popular among couples and newlyweds. And this is not at all surprising. Nicknamed “little Paris”, it is an amazing park in which thousands of flowers and dozens of different trees grow. There are many artificial small ponds and waterfalls here.
Da Tien Lake is considered the center of the Valley of Love. Despite the small size of the lake, you can rent a boat or catamaran here. Horse riding enthusiasts will be able to ride horses. One of the highlights of the park is that all the guides wear cowboy clothes. The best time to visit the Valley of Love is from December to March, when sunny days prevail over rainy ones.
Ho Xuan Huong Lakes
What to see in Dalat? This is a beautiful lake in the heart of Dalat. On the shore of the lake there are several cozy restaurants where it is customary to celebrate weddings. This is a favorite spot for Vietnamese artists. Ho Xuan Huong Lake is surrounded by lush gardens and evergreen parks.
This picturesque place is very popular among travelers. There are boat rentals here and you can, if you wish, go sailing on a board, taking a short cruise along the long 5-kilometer lake.
This was today's top Dalat, attractions that you can visit on your own. Now you know what to see in Dalat. I wish you a great holiday and good weather!
If you are planning a trip to Dalat on your own, and not as part of an organized excursion (and I recommend visiting this city only in this way), then this article is just for you :) Today I will tell you about the sights of Dalat and the surrounding area and what you can see in Dalat in 2-3 days.
Attractions of Dalat
1. Xuan Huong Lake
An artificial lake in the city center was formed in 1919 after the construction of a dam. The area near Xuan Huong Lake is a favorite vacation spot for tourists and locals. You can ride on swan-shaped catamarans on the lake. Such walks at sunset are especially romantic.
Swan rental cost: 60,000 VND for 1 hour.
Artificial lake in Dalat and mini Ephel Tower :) 
One of the entertainments in the city is swan rides on the lake. 
Swans on the lake in Dalat 
These are the evening rides on the lake. Romantic :)
2. Catholic Church
The current Catholic church in the center of Dalat was built in the 30s of the last century. Previously, there was a convent there.
Divine services on weekdays at: 5:15 and 17:15
Divine services on Sundays at: 5:15, 7:00, 8:30, 16:00, 18:00
Catholic Church in Dalat. There are quite a lot of Catholics in Vietnam, and especially in Da Lat. 
Catholic Church in Dalat 3. Crazy House
Crazy House or madhouse is an operating hotel with a very unusual architecture. You can stay at the hotel for the night (it’s easy to book a room) or just come for an excursion. Crazy House is a very popular attraction of Dalat among Russian-speaking tourists: this hotel-museum is included in the program of all excursions from.
Museum opening hours: 8:30 – 19:00.
Cost of visit: 40,000 dong.
Crazy House or Hang Nga Villa is both a museum and an operating hotel 
Views from the top of Crazy House towards Dalat 4. Bao Dai's Summer Palace
Summer Palace of the last Emperor of Vietnam. The palace was built in the 30s of the last century, made in the French style, now the palace houses a museum in which the interior of the emperor’s life has been completely preserved. You can learn about how the Vietnamese Emperor Bao Dai lived.
Museum opening hours: 7:00 – 11:00 and 13:30 – 16:00.
Price: 20,000 dong.
5. Flower Garden (Dalat Flower Park)
The Great Park is a botanical garden that was founded by French colonialists in 1966. Several times a year, colorful festivals are held in the flower park. The rest of the time, the flower park is a great place for a walk: here you can enjoy numerous flowers, interestingly decorated flower beds, and even buy seeds and seedlings of exotic plants.
Park opening hours: 7:30 – 16:00.
Cost of visit: 30,000 dong.
Flower garden in Dalat 
Flowers and seeds for sale 6. Golden Buddha
Golden Buddha statue on Mt.
Golden Buddha statue in Dalat 7. Da Lat train station
Dalat railway station was considered one of the most beautiful in Indochina. It was built in 1938 by a French architect. An ancient railway connected Dalat to the town of Thap Cham (84 km), but during the war the railway was damaged and closed. In 1991, part of the railway road was restored - about 7 km. Nowadays a retro tourist train runs along this section of the route, connecting Dalat with the village of Trai Mat. This village is home to the beautiful Linh Phuoc Pagoda.
There is an old steam locomotive on the platform, and in one of the old carriages there is a cafe where you can drink a cup of delicious Vietnamese coffee.
Tourist train schedule from Dalat: 7:45, 9:50, 11:55, 14:00, 16:05. Travel time is 30 minutes one way and the train waits 30 minutes for passengers in the village while they explore the pagoda.
An old railway station, now a landmark of Dalat :) 
At Dalat train station. Vintage retro train. There is a cafe in one of the carriages 8. Central Da Lat market
The Central Market can be called another colorful attraction of Dalat. The market is large, trade has developed both in the building and on the streets adjacent to it. It is near the market that the entire tourist life of the city is in full swing. In the evening, several streets near the market become pedestrian, along which a large evening market with food and souvenirs is laid out. Sort of in Vietnamese :)
Even if you don’t plan to buy anything at the market, still stop by the central market to feel the atmosphere of Dalat, and maybe you won’t be able to resist the candied berries and local wine, or the strawberries and mulberries and buy a lot of Dalat “delicacies” :)
Square near the central market. The market itself is located in a building, but trade takes place on all the streets adjacent to it 
At the Dalat market: dried fruits, sweets, nuts, wine... yum-yum :) 
On the roar of Dalat A small waterfall 2 km from the central lake. Nearby is a cozy and deserted park with benches and flower beds.
Cost of visit: 20,000 dong
10. Cable car in Dalat
The cable car connects Dalat and the active Chuc Lak Thien Vien monastery. The lower cable car station is located almost next to the bus station, about 3.5 km from the city center. A fascinating walk in a cable car cabin over a pine forest and vegetable gardens will last 10-15 minutes one way.
Cable car opening hours: 7:30 – 11:30 and 13:30 – 17:00.
Cable car fare: 50,000 VND one way and 70,000 VND two way.
The cable car is one of the attractions of Dalat 
We arrive at the upper cable car station Attractions around Dalat
The main attractions of Dalat are not in the city itself, but a few kilometers away. You can explore the sights of the surrounding area of Dalat at:
- Rented bike (rent ~ 100,000 VND per day + gasoline)
- By taxi
- Hire an easy-diver (a bike driver who will not only take you around the sights of Dalat, but will also help you create the optimal route and tell you something useful and interesting).
This is a fairly new operating Buddhist monastery. It is located in a very beautiful place: in the mountains, in a pine forest on the shore of a large lake. The best way to get to Thien Vien Monastery is by cable car.
Cost of visit: for free.
Thien Vien Chuk Lak Monastery in Da Lat 2. Prenn Park and Waterfall
An amusement park next to the Prenn waterfall is very popular among Russian-speaking tourists. Here you can not only see a cute, but very small waterfall, but also ride elephants, ostriches, visit an orchid garden and a mini zoo, and even try Luwak coffee!
Park opening hours: 7:00 – 17:00.
Cost of visit: 30,000 VND for entrance to the park, other entertainment costs extra.
Beautiful and well-kept Prenn Park 3. Datanla Falls
A very beautiful three-level waterfall just 5.5 km from Dalat. A popular place among both Russian-speaking and Vietnamese tourists. But for some reason all the tourists crowd near the first level of the waterfall, few people know that you can go down below - first in the cable car cabin, and then on the elevator (yes, on the elevator in the jungle!) and explore the second and third levels of the Datanla Falls almost completely alone.
Another great thing about the Datanla waterfall is that you can go down to it on an electric sled (or, as they are called in Vietnam, an alpine sled). Be sure to take a ride - just a lot of fun!
Working hours: 7:00 – 17:00.
Cost of visit: 20,000 dong.
Additionally, travel on electric sleighs, funiculars, and elevators is paid. 
Datanla waterfall in Dalat Descent to the waterfall on an electric sled. Unforgettable experience! I definitely recommend everyone to take a ride!
4. Elephant Falls
Cost of visit: The most powerful waterfall in the vicinity of Dalat. Located 40 km from the city. The place is not popular with tourists; only a few Vietnamese couples come here, so you can enjoy the Elephant Falls almost completely alone. But first you need to overcome a difficult descent along dilapidated steps in the jungle.
20,000 dong. Very powerful Elephant Falls
Pongur Falls is the farthest, but also the most beautiful waterfall in the vicinity of Dalat. It looks especially impressive during the rainy season. If you wish, you can walk barefoot along the cascades of the waterfall and swim under the streams of water. There is a large park near the waterfall.
Cost of visit: 10,000 dong.
Pongur Falls 6. Mount Langbiang
Mount Langbiang is the highest mountain in the vicinity of Dalat. On one of the peaks of Langbiang Mountain, at an altitude of 1950, there is an observation deck with amazing views of the surrounding area of Dalat. You can climb the mountain on foot (for hiking enthusiasts) or drive up in a UAZ for an additional fee.
Cost of visit: 20,000 dong.
View of the surrounding area of Dalat from Langbiang Mountain 
At the top of Lang Biang Mountain 7. Golden Valley Park
The huge Golden Valley Park is located in a pine forest, on the shore of a lake, 15 km from Dalat. A place for leisurely walks and unity with nature. On weekdays the park is empty; on weekends, noisy Vietnamese tourists like to come to Golden Valley.
Cost of visit: The most powerful waterfall in the vicinity of Dalat. Located 40 km from the city. The place is not popular with tourists; only a few Vietnamese couples come here, so you can enjoy the Elephant Falls almost completely alone. But first you need to overcome a difficult descent along dilapidated steps in the jungle.
Golden Valley Park near Dalat 
Among the roses in the Golden Valley 8. Park Valley of Love
A beautiful park 6 km from the city center. Well-groomed flower beds, numerous figures of animals, hearts, and many places for photography - this is a place for leisurely romantic walks and enjoying nature.
Cost of visit: 40,000 dong.
Valley of Love Park in Dalat A very beautiful pagoda 8 km from the center of Dalat. This is the tallest pagoda in southern Vietnam, built in the 50s of the last century. The pagoda is decorated with pieces of porcelain, which makes it look very unusual. You can get to Linh Phuoc Pagoda by retro train.
Cost of visit : for free.
10. Coffee plantations
Coffee plantations near Dalat 
This is how coffee grows What to see in Dalat and the surrounding area in 2-3 days
Above I talked about the main attractions of Dalat, and now I will summarize what you can see in Dalat in 2-3 days. First, I’ll tell you what we visited in the city and its surroundings, but I’ll clarify that we spent 5 full days and two half days in Dalat 🙂 we weren’t in a hurry, we got in late, relaxed in a cafe, sometimes worked in the evenings, i.e. We didn’t lead a completely tourist life 🙂
Day 1 (after 14:00): flower garden, coffee break in a cafe on the lake shore, Crazy House, walk through the market, dinner.
Day 2 (from 10:30): walk around the city to the lower cable car station, ride up the cable car, Chuk Lak Thien Vien Monastery, descent to the lake. From the lake we walked to the Datanla waterfall. Visiting all three levels of the Datanla waterfall, riding an electric sleigh, a mini cable car and an elevator 🙂 Snack and coffee in a cafe near the waterfall. We returned to the city by taxi, walked around the market and went to the hotel to relax. In the evening, a promenade along Walking Street, dinner at a restaurant.
Day 3 (from 12:00): renting a bike, visiting Langbiang Mountain, visiting Golden Valley Park, Big C store, relaxing at the hotel, dinner at a restaurant and walking around the evening city.
Day 4 (it started very early, at 9 am 🙂): Elephant Falls, Pongur Falls, Prenn Park and Falls, Dalat Railway Station. At 16:00 we were already relaxing at the hotel.
Day 5: a day of idleness - we slept, I walked around the city, drank coffee in numerous coffee shops, rode swans on the lake at sunset, had dinner in a restaurant, bought sweets and drank wine on the balcony of the room.
Day 6 (until 13:00): walk around the city, market, buying tea and coffee.
This is how our holiday in Dalat was spent in “light” mode – I liked it :)
Leisurely walks around Dalat 
Coffee stops at numerous cafes 
Romantic dinners in a restaurant by candlelight If you are in Vietnam on vacation and you can’t count every day, then I recommend the following route for sightseeing in Dalat and the surrounding area:
Day 1: Pongur waterfall – Prenn waterfall – Datanla waterfall – Chuk Lak Thien Vien Monastery – cable car – walks around the city (prenn can be excluded if time is limited).
Day 2: Mount Langbiang (only if the weather is clear, otherwise you won’t see anything from the mountain) – Golden Valley Park – Crazy House
Day 3: Railway station and a trip on a retro train to Linh Phuoc Pagoda – Flower Garden – purchasing souvenirs
By the way, if you arrive in Dalat by plane (or depart from it) and plan to get to the city by taxi, then you can see the Elephant Falls on the way from (to) the airport.
You can buy flights to Dalat.
And it’s easy to choose and book a hotel here (select and compare offers in different booking systems):
Attractions of Dalat on the map
The map shows the sights of Dalat and other useful places (cafes, shops, markets, etc.). Click on the menu icon in the top left corner
