Independent travel and view of the city of Dalat!

 

History of Dalat

Dalat is one of the most unusual cities in Vietnam, located on the southern plateau of Central Vietnam at an altitude of about 1500 m above sea level. It is called “the city of eternal spring”, “little Europe”, “the city of fogs” and “the flower capital of Vietnam”. However, Dalat’s rich history goes much deeper than his romantic image.

I. Before the advent of the French: the land of the peoples of Kho and Lat

Long before the construction of the city, the territory of the future Dalat was inhabited by ethnic groups of the Central Highlands:

1. People of Lat (L)ch/Lat)

• were considered to be the indigenous population of the area;

• lived in disparate tribal communities;

• He was engaged in hunting, agriculture and collecting forest products.

2. People of Kho (C) Ho/K’Ho)

• the larger ethnic group of the region;

• divided into clans and sub-ethnoses (Sre, Lach, Lati, Churup, etc.);

• lived in the valleys and slopes of the Langbian plateau.

3. Socio-cultural characteristics

• animism, cult of spirits of nature, rites of initiation;

• wooden long houses, local traditions of metal processing and weaving;

• Sustainable systems of tribal self-government.

There was no formal state here – it was an isolated mountainous territory, practically unconnected with the plains of Cochinhin or the states of Viet (Daiviet).

II. French colonial research and the foundation of Dalat (late XIX – early XX century)

1. Expeditions and Plateau Discovery (1870–1890s)

French explorers, moving deep into Indochina, became interested in cool mountainous areas. The most famous are:

• Dr. Alexander Yersin (Alexandre Yersin) – a student of Pasteur, the discoverer of the pathogen of the plague;

• Etienne Tardieu and Maurice Steinen are geographical explorers of the region.

In 1893, Yersen first climbed the Langbiang plateau, described its climate, flora, relief and proposed to create an alpine resort for the French.

2. Decision on the construction of the city

In the late 1890s, the French administration of Cochinkhina supported the idea of creating:

• climate resort for officials and military;

• “Vietnamese Davanoz” is an analogue of European mountain resorts.

3. 1900-1920s: the first buildings

• 1905 – the official formation of the plan for the future of the city.

• The first villas, hospitals and institutions appear.

• 1916 – Dalat is officially recognized as a resort.

• The beginning of the construction of roads connecting the plateau with the plain.

4. Architect Ernest Eber (Ernest Hébrard)

In 1923, he was commissioned to develop a master plan for Dalat, which defined the city:

• wide boulevards,

• European Quarterly Planning,

• conservation of natural landscapes,

• lakes and dams (including future Xuan Huong Lake),

• zoning - administrative quarters, villas, religious centers, educational institutions.

III. The French Pearl of Indochina (1920–1945)

During this period, Dalat developed rapidly:

1. Architecture

Dozens of unique French villas are being built in various styles:

• Gothic,

• Art Deco,

• modern

• Alpine chalets.

Among the iconic buildings:

• Dalata railway station - Art Deco architecture;

• Cathedral of Domain de Marie;

• Lyceum Yersin is an elite school for the French.

• Bao Dai’s Living House (Palace I and Palace II)

2. Climate Capital of Indochina

The French developed the city as a summer capital.

• In the summer the governor-general worked here.

• conferences and official meetings were held;

• Sanatoriums, schools, hotels were opened.

3. Infrastructure and transport

• 1928-1932 – construction of the Dalat-Thanh Hoa narrow-gauge railway through the mountains;

• creation of Xuan Huong Lake;

• development of golf clubs (one of the oldest in Asia).

Dalat during the Wars (1945–1975)

1. World and Japanese occupation

In 1940-1945 the region fell under the control of the Japanese, and then the zone of influence of France.

2. Indochina War (1946–1954)

Dalat remained an important strategic point:

• French base,

• officer training center,

• Place of diplomatic meetings.

3. Vietnam War (1955–1975)

During the period of South Vietnam:

• Dalat – the recreation center of the elite, the city of universities;

• The Dalat Military Academy, an analogue of “Vietnamese West Point” was founded;

• The city suffered less than other areas, but its surroundings were the scene of clashes.

4. 1975 – Accession to a unified Vietnam

The city was taken by North Vietnamese troops with virtually no destruction.

V. Modern Dalat (1975–2020s)

1. Post-war development

• large-scale reconstruction of French buildings;

• creation of farms and flower farms;

• population growth from several thousand to hundreds of thousands.

2. Tourism boom

Dalat became:

• the all-Vietnamese tourist capital,

• honeymoon site,

• the main center of flower cultivation (especially chrysanthemums, roses, hydrangeas),

• A major producer of Arabica coffee and vegetables.

There are new tourist locations:

• Valley of Love,

• Datanla and Pongu Falls,

• Lin Pyok temple,

• The Mad House by Hang Nga (Crazy House)

3. Global interest

Dalat became popular:

• among Asian tourists,

• European travelers,

• lovers of trekking and adventure.

VI. Dalat today.

Today, Dalat is:

• cultural center of Lamdong Province;

• City of Universities (Dalat University, Military Academy);

• one of the largest agricultural regions of Vietnam;

• ecological and tourist pearl of the country;

• A city that preserves the unique architectural heritage of France.

Its atmosphere combines:

• European colonial charm,

• the natural beauty of the Langbiang Plateau,

• Kho and Lat traditions,

• The dynamic modern culture of Vietnam.

 

 

Interesting places for entertainment in Dalat

Imagine a place where the air is always fresh and cool, the morning meets with a gentle fog, and around pine forests, flower gardens, lakes and waterfalls. This is Dalat - the most unusual city in Vietnam, located high in the mountains of the Central Highlands. There is no tropical heat, no noise of megacities – only tranquility, nature and a special European atmosphere.

1. Ideal climate all year round

The temperature is about 18-22 ° C, so Dalat is called the “city of eternal spring”. This is the perfect place to take a break from the heat of Ho Chi Minh City or the coast.

2. European Charm in the Middle of Asia

Dalat was created by the French colonizers as a mountain resort, and until now the city has preserved:

• elegant villas in European style,

• old streets,

• pine alleys,

• Cozy cafes and wineries.

It is as if you are in a little France of the XXI century.

3. Capital of Flowers and Romance

Dalat is famous throughout Vietnam:

• With fancy flower beds,

• endless greenhouses of roses, hydrangeas, chrysanthemums,

• Annual Flower Festival.

No wonder newlyweds come here from all over the country.

4. Waterfalls, lakes, canyons and hiking trails

For lovers of nature and active recreation in Dalat a real paradise:

• Datanla, Prenn, Pongu Falls,

• Lake Xuan Huong - the heart of the city,

• canyoning and alloying,

• trekking to Mount Langbiang,

• Pine forests, ideal for picnics.

A new corner can be opened every day.

5. Adventure City

Dalat is the capital of active tourism in Vietnam:

• waterfall canyoning,

• Paragliding,

• mountain bike,

• Hiking and camping,

• Night safaris in national parks.

This is an ideal place for those who love nature and movement.

6. Rich cuisine and fresh produce

Due to the mountainous climate, there are:

• fresh strawberries,

• vegetables and greens,

• Arabica coffee,

• locally produced wine and jams,

• A unique artichoke tea.

A gastronomic tour to Dalat is always a good idea.

7. Cozy cafes and unusual places

Dalat is famous for atmospheric and non-standard locations:

• Crazy House is an architectural surreal maze.

• coffeehouses in trees,

• Observation platforms overlooking the foggy valleys,

• Night market with street food.

Every place I want to photograph here.

 

You'll be met in Dalat.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual tours.

 

Accommodation options in the city of Dalat

Dalat is one of the most touristic cities in Vietnam, so housing here is for every taste: from stylish mountain resorts to cozy hostels and home accommodation with local residents. Below is a simple and clear system of how to choose the right option, and examples of the most popular places.

1. Luxury Hotels and Resorts (Resort & Spa)

For those who want comfort, beautiful views, silence and proper rest.

Features:

• SPA complexes

• Panoramic views of lakes and pine forests

• Privacy.

• Breakfast buffet

• Large green areas

Examples:

• Terracotta Hotel & Resort Dalat is a stylish resort on the shores of Lake Tuen Lam.

• Swiss-Belresort Tuyen Lam is a mountain hotel with beautiful views and golf courses.

• Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa are colonial villas with a romantic atmosphere.

2. Mid-range hotels (3-4 stars)

The most popular option among tourists: comfortable, convenient and at a reasonable price.

Features:

• Clean modern rooms

• Good location.

• Families facilities

• Often - restaurants and fitness rooms

Examples:

• Colline Dalat Hotel is large, modern, right in the center.

• Muong Thanh Holiday Dalat is a great option close to the main attractions.

• Hôtel Colline is stylish and comfortable, suitable for family trips.

3. Budget Hotels and Family Guesthouses

The best solution for those who want to travel economically, but at the same time live in comfort.

Features:

• Simple but neat rooms

• Low prices

• Often - home atmosphere

• Location in quiet areas

Examples:

• Dalat Cadasa Resort (economy version of rooms) is a colonial style at an affordable price.

• Dan Homestay is a very homely setting, a quiet place.

• Tulip Hotel is a popular budget hotel near the center.

4. Hostels and Common Rooms (Hostel/Dorm)

For young travelers, solo tourists and those who love the atmosphere of communication.

Features:

• The lowest prices in the city

• Common rooms 4-8 people

• Common kitchens and lounge areas

• Perfect for meeting other travelers

Examples:

• Amigo Homestay & Hostel is a popular option with very affordable prices.

• Dalat Backpackers Hostel is cheap, comfortable and friendly.

• Euro Star Hostel - quiet area, clean rooms, good reviews.

5. Homestay – Accommodation with locals

Warm, authentic version that allows you to feel the atmosphere of real Dalat.

Features:

• Accommodation in the house of the owners or in the family mini-guest building

• Home Kitchen (often on request)

• Cozy rooms with individual character

• Excellent for a relaxing holiday.

Examples:

• Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse) is an unusual architecture, the house itself is a landmark.

• Pine Hill Homestay - wooden houses among pine trees.

• Lumiere House Dalat is a stylish, bright and very cozy option.

 

 

Attractions in Dalat

Dalat is a city of nature, fog and French architecture. Most of the places are compact, and transport is available: taxis, "Grab", moped rental, bicycle rickshaws and tourist minibases.

Below are the most famous locations, their features and transport accessibility.

1. Xuan Huong Lake (Huan Huong Lake)

The main lake of the city and its business card.

What is it?

• walkways around the lake

• catamaran

• beautiful photos at dawn

• Nearby - flower park, cafe, market

How to get there:

• Located in the heart of the city - you can walk from any central hotel.

• Taxi / Grab in the city: 5-10 minutes.

2. Dalat Flower Garden (Dalat Flower Park)

One of the most striking symbols of the city, especially popular during the Flower Festival.

What is it?

• thematic flower arrangements

• greenhouses

• large photo zones for tourists

Transport:

• 5-10 minutes from the center on foot, if you live near the lake.

• Taxi/Grab: very close, usually up to 20-30,000 dong.

3. Dalat Railway Station (Dalat Railway Station)

The old station of 1938, built by the French in the Art Deco style.

What is it?

• mini-train to Trai Mat village

• photo-site

• Museum objects, ancient locomotives

Transport:

• 2-3 km from the center, you can:

  • by taxi / Grab: 5-7 minutes,

  • on foot: about 30 minutes.

4. Crazy House (Hang Nga Maze House)

Surreal architecture, reminiscent of Gaudí and a fabulous forest.

What is it?

• Unusual living rooms and tunnels

• viewpoint

• hotel

How to get there:

• Located near the center:

  • 10 to 20 minutes walk,

  • Take a taxi for about 5 minutes.

5. Linh Phuoc Pagoda (Linh Phuoc Pagoda)

The temple is completely decorated with mosaics of porcelain and glass.

What is it?

• mosaic

• 7-story pagoda

• Bodhisattva statue of 700,000 flower petals

Transport:

• In the suburbs of Dalata is the district of Tri Mat.

• The most convenient way:

  • mini-train from Dalat station (25 minutes)

  • Grab/Taxi: 20-25 minutes

6. Langbiang Plateau (Langbiang Mountain)

The highest point of the region is ideal for trekking, paragliding and valley views.

What is it?

• viewpoint

• jeep-tour

• footpath

• café

Transport:

• 12 km from Dalat

• Grab/taxi: 25-30 minutes

• Tourist minibases - from the center daily

• Moped - a convenient route on a quality road

7. Datanla Waterfall (Datanla Waterfall)

The most popular waterfall in the region.

What is it?

• Trolley Descents (Alpine Coaster)

• canyoning

• waterfall

• suspension-bridge

Transport:

• 5-6 km from the center

• Grab/taxi: 10-15 minutes

• Moped: the road is simple and safe

8. Lake Tuyen Lam (Tuyen Lam Lake)

A large mountain lake with fogs and pine forests, one of the most beautiful places.

What is it?

• catamarans

• pinewood

• resorts

• Chuk Lam pagoda

Transport:

• 6-7 km from the center

• Grab/taxi: 10-15 minutes

• You can combine the trip with a visit to the cable car

9. The Robin Hill Cable Car (Robin Hill Cable Car)

It connects Robin Hill with Chuk Lam Pagoda and Tuen Lam Lake.

Panoramas:

• pinewood

• lake

• foggy valley

Transport:

• Hill Robin 10 minutes from downtown

• Taxi/Grab: up to 10 minutes

10. Dalat Night Market (Dalat Night Market)

Fair on Nguyen Tha Minh Khai Street - food, souvenirs, coffee shops.

Transport:

• In the city center, they usually come on foot.

• If you stay further - Grab / taxi: 5 minutes.

 

 

Activities in Dalat

January – March: time of flowering and holidays

At the beginning of the year, Dalat turns into a huge flowering garden. On the streets and in parks, pink flowers of Vietnamese cherry blossoms appear, the morning greets with a light fog, and the air remains cool.

What's going on at this time:

• Celebration of Theta (Lunar New Year) – decorated streets, markets, performances

• spring festivals and mini-concerts

• flower exhibitions and festive fairs

April – June: Calm Sunny Time

This is the most predictable period: almost no rain, a lot of light, great weather for walks, waterfalls and trekking.

During this season, there are:

• street concerts and art events

• craft-fair

• Small City Holidays in Central Squares

July-September: Green Season

In the second half of the year, the rainy season begins in Dalat, but they are usually brief and go after lunch. Nature becomes particularly saturated and bright, and the city is filled with tranquility.

At this time, you can see:

• mountain marathons and trails around Langbiang

• Extreme competitions and outdoor events

• Chamber cultural evenings in museums and galleries

October – December: fog and major festivals

By the end of the year, the city becomes cooler and more mysterious – morning fogs, beautiful views and the atmosphere of the holidays create a special mood.

Season highlights:

Dalata Flower Festival

It is held every two years in December:

• flower parade

• carnival

• light-show

• concerts

 

 

Weather and the best season to travel to Dalat

January – March: Cool Spring

• Daytime temperature: 15–25 °C

• Night temperature: 10–15 °C

• Water temperature: about 22–24 °C

• Weather: cool, morning fog, dry

• Why you should go: a great time to walk through lakes, park alleys and garden complexes; blossoming cherry blossoms and magnolias create a unique atmosphere.

April – June: warm and sunny period

• Daytime temperature: 20-28 °C

• Night temperature: 14–18 °C

• Water temperature: 23–25 °C

• Weather: clear sky, minimal precipitation

• Why you should go: the ideal period for hiking, trekking to waterfalls, cycling and excursions around the neighborhood.

July – September: the rainy season

• Daytime temperature: 18–27 °C

• Night temperature: 15–20 °C

• Water temperature: 23–25 °C

• Weather: Short-term rains are possible after lunch; air is fresh, nature is especially green

• Why you should go: fewer tourists, beautiful nature, favorable prices for accommodation, the opportunity to see waterfalls and mountain trails in all its glory.

October – December: Cool autumn and early winter

• Daytime temperature: 16–26 °C

• Night temperature: 12–17 °C

• Water temperature: 22–24 °C

• Weather: cool morning fog, clear days

• Why you should go: perfect time to visit festivals, flower shows and fairs; great time for photo travel.

 

 

Language of communication, traditions and customs in Dalat

Language of communication in Dalat

• Official language: Vietnamese. This is what the locals speak in everyday life.

• English: widely used in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies, but outside the city center, knowledge of English may be limited.

• Advice to the tourist: it is useful to learn a few basic phrases in Vietnamese (hello, “thank you”, “how much is it?”), as well as to have an application-translator.

Traditions and customs worth observing

1. Greetings and respect

   • A respectful greeting involves a slight bow or nod of the head.

   • Handshakes are common, but not as widely as in Western countries.

   • Never touch the head of children or adults – the Vietnamese consider the head sacred.

2. Shoes.

   • Before entering a house, temple or some restaurants, take off your shoes.

3. Visiting temples and pagodas

   • Clothing should be modest: shoulders and knees closed.

   • Do not speak loudly or show excessive emotion inside holy places.

4. Photography.

   • Always ask permission from people if you want to photograph them.

   • Some pagodas and museums may not be allowed to use the flash.

5. Trade and markets

   • Bargaining is accepted and even expected, especially in markets and street vendors.

6. Etiquette at the table

   • Do not place the chopsticks vertically in a cup of rice - it symbolizes a ritual for the dead.

   • The serving of food is often collective: take food from a common dish carefully.

Laws and regulations that are important to follow

1. Documents

   • Always carry your passport or a copy.

   • Tourists are required to have a visa (if required) and comply with the terms of stay.

2. Road traffic

   • Right-hand drive.

   • Be careful when renting a moped – a helmet is required by law.

   • An alarm at a pedestrian crossing does not always mean that cars will stop - cross the road carefully.

3. Alcohol and smoking

   • Smoking is prohibited in public places, on the streets and in restaurants with “No Smoking” signs.

   • Alcohol is prohibited for persons under 18 years of age.

4. Prohibited items

   • Drugs are strictly prohibited - violation is punished very severely.

   • Do not try to take out rare plants or animals – this is a violation of the law.

5. Conduct in public places

   • Do not express excessive emotions and aggression in the street.

   • Follow the queue, respect seniors and service staff.

 

 

The main dialogues for traveling to Dalat

Greetings and courtesy

• Xin chào (Shin Chao) - Hello / Hello

• Chào bu)i sáng (Chao buoy sang) - Good morning

• Chào bu)i chi)u (Chao buoyu whoseu) - Good afternoon / evening

• Chào bu)i t)i (Chao buoy toi) - Good evening (late)

• T m biət (There hits) - Goodbye

• C)m )n (Kam he) - Thank you

• Không có gì (Hom ko zi) - Please (in response to thank you)

• Xin L)i (Shin Loi) - Sorry / Sorry

• Vâng/Dо (Wang/Za) - Yes (politely)

• Không (Hom) - No

Restaurant and café

• Th)c đ)n (Tuk Zun) - Menu

• Tôi mu n g i món (Toi muon goi mon) - I want to order a dish

• Bao nhiêu ti?n? (Bao Nieu Tien?) - How much is it?

• Nù)c (Nyok) - Water

• Cà phê (Ka fe) - Coffee

• Trà (Cha) - Tea

• Ngon quá (Ngon kua) - Very delicious

• Hoa đ Сn (Hoa don) - Score

On the market and in the store

• Bao nhiêu ti?n? (Bao Nieu Tien?) - How much is it?

• Đ)t quá (Dat kua) - Expensive

• R h n đ大 c không? (Rehon duok hom?) - Can it be cheaper?

• Tôi ch xem (Toi chi sem) - I'm just looking

• Mua (Mua) - Buy

• Không Mua (Hom Mua) - Do not buy

At the hotel.

• Tôi đã đ заt phòng (Toi da date phong) - I have booked a room

• Tôi mu n thuê phòng (Toi muon teu phong) - I want to rent a room

• Bao nhiêu ti n m t đêm? (Bao Nieu Tien Mot Dem?) - How much is a night?

• Có wifi không? (To WiFi Hom?) - Is there Wi-Fi?

• Khăn t)m (Khan there) - Towel

• Đi)u hòa (Diyu Hoa) - Air conditioning

• Nhà vë sinh (Nya We Sinh) - Toilet / Bathroom

Transport and orientation

• Taxi - Taxi

• Xe ôm - Moped taxi

• Xe buýt (Se but) - Bus

• Bao lâu đ n...? (Bao lau den...?) - How long is it until...?

• D)ng ) đây (Dung o zai) - Stop here

• R) trái / R) ph)i (Ze tea / Ze fai) - Turn left / right

• Đ n ... (Den ...) - Get to the...

General useful phrases

• Tôi không hi u (Toi hom hieu) - I don't understand

• B n có nói ti ng Anh không? (Ban konoi tieng ang hom?) - Do you speak English?

• Giúp tôi v)i (Zup that howl) - Help me

• Tôi bə l c (Toi bi lac) - I'm lost

• Nhà vë sinh đâu? (Nia Wee Shin o Daw?) - Where's the toilet?

• Tôi c)n taxi - I need a taxi

 

 

Food, medicines, souvenirs and gifts in memory of the city of Dalat

1. Food and drink

• Coffee and coffee beans - Dalat is known for its high mountain coffee plantations. Especially appreciated Arabica with a mild taste and aroma.

• Fruits and berries - strawberries, lychees, tangerines, avocados. In the season, strawberries can be bought directly from the farm or as jam.

• Cheese and dairy products – there are small farms in Dalat that produce natural cheeses and yogurt.

• Tea from herbs - local herbal teas with ginger, lemongrass, rose or lemongrass.

2. Medicines and natural cosmetics

• Honey and propolis are often sold as treatments for colds and immunity.

• Essential oils and balms - oils from eucalyptus, rose, lemongrass, which are used both in cosmetics and in aromatherapy.

• Herbal picks and pastes – for example, pastes with ginseng root or ginger, which are used to promote health.

3. Souvenirs

• Rose products - Dalat is called the "city of roses", so rose oils, soap, creams and souvenir jewelry are popular.

• Knitted things and warm accessories – because of the cool climate in the mountains, hats, scarves and handmade sweaters are popular.

• Decorative objects with motifs of nature - wooden products, miniature figures, paintings with flowers and mountains.

• Ceramics and pottery are small artistic products of local masters.

 

 

Rest safety, documents, insurance, telephones, Internet in Dalat

1. Travel documents

• Passport – must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Vietnam.

• Visa – depends on citizenship:

  • For citizens of Russia, Ukraine and many other countries there is a visa-free regime up to 15-30 days (clarified before the trip).

  • Long-term stay requires a visa (tourist, e-visa or multiple entry).

• Tickets and proof of residence can be requested at the border.

• Health insurance – coverage must include COVID-19 treatment and emergency hospital care.

2. Insurance

• Health insurance – choose coverage from $20,000-50,000 in case of hospitalization.

• In addition: baggage insurance, cancellation of a trip or outdoor activities (for example, mountain hikes, motorcycle rental).

• Insurance companies often require a payment scheme through a bank or credit card, keep all checks and policies.

3. Emergency services

• Police: 113

• Ambulance/medical: 115

• Fire service: 114

• Tourist police (references, problems with hotels / transport): +84 24 3942 2727 (for Hanoi, rooms in Dalat should be clarified)

4. Mobile communications

• The main operators in Vietnam are Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone.

• Tourists often buy prepaid SIM cards with the Internet for 1-4 weeks.

• Coverage in the mountains and countryside is often weaker, but in Dalat, cellular communication is stable.

5. Term of stay of the tourist

• Visa-free: usually 15-30 days (check for your citizenship).

• With a visa: the period depends on the type of visa (usually 30, 90 or 180 days, can be extended).

• Extension: You can extend your stay without leaving only through the Immigration Service of Vietnam, and it is better to do this in advance.