Escape the Crowds: Explore Dalat’s Hidden Gems with insider tips

In my journey to uncover the Dalat hidden gems, I embarked on an adventure that led me to extraordinary lesser-known treasures. From secret cafes tucked away in charming alleyways to secluded viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas, I discovered a side of Dalat rarely seen by tourists. Join me in this blog as I share my recommendations and insider tips, serving as your trusted travel guide to unlock the hidden wonders of this captivating city.

Dalat Hidden Gems

Captivating Clouds and Colorful Markets: A Soulful Escape to Trai Mat

The captivating Trai Mat area lies a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rural charm. Cloud hunting at Trai Mat is an experience that transports you to a dreamlike realm, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

However, Trai Mat has much more to offer beyond. At the heart of the area lies the Trai Mat market, one of the largest agricultural markets in Dalat. As you stroll through the bustling market, you will be greeted by a vibrant array of sights and sounds.

The market boasts an impressive selection of vegetables and colorful flower pots that add a touch of charm to the surroundings. You can have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their agricultural practices, and even purchase fresh produce for yourself. It was a truly enriching experience that showcased the authentic essence of the area.

Experiencing the Mesmerizing Colors at Cau Dat Tea Hill

As I ventured into the enchanting landscapes of Dalat, one destination literally stood out is Cau Dat Tea Hill. The road leading here is a winding mountain pass, adorned with majestic pine forests on both sides. The lush greenery embraced me, creating a poetic ambiance unique to Dalat.

Helpful tip: You should visit here in the afternoon, around 4 pm or 5 pm to watch the stunning sunset.

Cau Dat Tea Hill boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest tea factories in Southeast Asia, still operational to this day. So if you’re into exploring historic value then you should visit here. The machines were imported directly from Europe because at that time Vietnam was colonized by France. That’s why it carries a sense of history.

Moreover, as you spend time observing the tea-making process, you can’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship and dedication that went into producing these fine teas.

Dalat Train Station

As I ventured into the depths of Dalat’s hidden gems, one place that transported me back in time was the iconic Dalat Train Station. The station recently reopened last year after Covid19, offers a unique opportunity to witness the vintage charm of old trains and carriages.

Traveling to Trai Mat on a classic carriage is a truly delightful experience. You’ll be soothed by the gentle sound of the train, breathtaking panoramic views, and a gentle breeze on your face. It’s like stepping into an enchanting adventure.

Visiting Dalat Train Station is not just a glimpse into the past, but an immersive adventure that allows you to become a part of history.

Delve into the intricate mosaic designs Linh Phuoc Pagoda

When you arrive at Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Dalat, you will be immediately enchanted by its remarkable architecture. What truly sets it apart is that the buildings on the temple grounds are inlaid with millions of pieces of bottles, broken bowls, and colorful porcelain.

As you explore the pagoda, you can’t help but be in awe of the exquisite craftsmanship and the vibrant colors that adorn every corner.

To reach Linh Phuoc Pagoda, you can take a leisurely walk from the Trai Mai area, which only takes around 5 minutes. The journey itself was a delightful experience, surrounded by picturesque scenery. Or if you’re an active person you can start from the Dalat train station, it takes 20-25 minutes to get there.

Enjoy special weasel coffee

One of the highlights of Dalat is savoring weasel coffee which can considered a unique and captivating experience. This coffee will leave an indelible impression on your taste buds and offer a glimpse into the rich coffee culture of Vietnam.

The allure of weasel coffee extends beyond its distinct taste. It offers a glimpse into the artistry and dedication of the local coffee farmers who meticulously care for the weasels and nurture the beans.

Curiosity mingles with anticipation as you take your first sip of this exotic brew. The moment the liquid touches your lips, you will taste a symphony of flavors – rich, smooth, and with a hint of earthiness. It might be unlike any coffee you have ever tasted before.

Best coffee shop to enjoy weasel coffee

To taste the real weasel coffee, you should visit Trai Ham Weasel Coffee Farm. This quaint farm provide an authentic and educational experience. It allows you to appreciate the dedication and skill involved in coffee cultivation, from farm to cup.

Address: 135E Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ward 10, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province.

From Calm to Thrills: Hop on the roller coaster of Datanla Waterfalls’ Natural Wonders

I highly recommend a visit to Datanla Waterfalls for anyone seeking adventure and a connection with nature. It’s a hidden gem that offers both serenity and thrills, allowing you to create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning natural beauty of Dalat.

Embarking on a half-day trip to Datanla Waterfalls, you will be immediately captivated by the breathtaking scenery. The cascading water creates a mesmerizing sight, and the sound of its gentle roar is incredibly calming. For me, I found myself lost in the beauty of the falls, spending hours immersed in its tranquility.

But Datanla Waterfalls has more in store for you. You can take a thrilling roller coaster ride, and it turns out to be an exhilarating experience. The unexpected twists and turns will add an element of excitement, making it a fun-filled afternoon activity.

Helpful tip: If your planning includes a rollercoaster, then I suggest starting your journey at the “Datanla New Alpine Coaster”. From this point, you have the option to take the alpine coaster for a one-way trip costing 150,000 VND, or a round trip for 200,000 VND. Additionally, by choosing this route, you can avoid paying the general entrance fee of 50,000 VND as well.

Visit the farm and see how they make dried persimmons

I highly recommend planning a visit to a farm where you can gain knowledge from an expert on the process of creating dried persimmons. It would be an amazing opportunity to learn about this unique process firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the work that goes into creating this delicious fruit.

As you visit here you can see all the persimmons selected are arranged and placed in the drying room, where they would undergo a natural drying process. The expert explained how temperature and humidity played crucial roles in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Helpful tip: If you plan to visit Datanla Waterfall then you should visit Thai Long dried persimmons farm since it’s on the way to the waterfall.

Delving into the Serenity of Tuyen Lam Lake

Tuyen Lam Lake (Ho Tuyen Lam), 5km south of town on highway 20. This is a haven of tranquility where you can reconnect with nature and find inner peace. The expansive lake, surrounded by rolling hills and dense pine forests, offered a picturesque setting.

You can embark on a boat ride, gliding gently across the calm surface of the lake. The rhythmic sounds of the water lapping against the boat were incredibly soothing, further enhancing the sense of serenity.

Truc Lam Monastery – A Glimpse into Vietnam’s Spiritual Life

During my exploration of Dalat’s hidden gems, one experience that left a lasting impression on me was my visit to Truc Lam Monastery. As I ventured into this serene place, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me, enveloping me in an atmosphere of spirituality.

The monastery provided a unique opportunity to delve into the religious life of Vietnam. As you observe the devoted monks and nuns engaging in their daily practices, you will have a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese rituals and beliefs. It will be a truly enlightening experience.

Helpful tip: Appropriate clothes are requested, no shorts or short skirts, and shoulders should be covered.

How to get to Truc Lam Monastery?

Reaching Truc Lam Monastery was an adventure in itself. I hopped aboard a cable cab at Tuyen Lam Lake, relishing the breathtaking views as I ascended towards the monastery. The journey itself was a visual feast, with lush greenery and misty landscapes stretching out before my eyes.

Exploring the Flavors at Dalat Night Market

Dalat Night Market is a treasure trove of culinary delights. As you wander through the bustling stalls, there are lots of things to try when visit Dalat night market. Your senses are immediately overwhelmed by the tantalizing aromas and vibrant atmosphere.

One particular delicacy you should give a try is Vietnamese pizza. If you visit here by yourself without a guide, then you should choose a vendor that looks crowded since the taste of it might be good. Then approached a stall where skillful women were crafting these delectable treats to see how they make it. The sight of them expertly spreading the rice paper base, adding a variety of toppings, and grilling it to perfection was truly mesmerizing.

The crispy rice paper provided a delightful crunch, while the combination of flavors from the toppings, savory meats, fresh herbs, and tangy sauces created a harmonious explosion in my mouth.

When should you pay a travel to Da Lat?

Da Lat, known for its “4 seasons a day” weather, offers a unique climate experience. The mornings feel like spring, with temperatures gradually rising to a summery 24 degrees Celsius by midday. As four o’clock approaches, the air becomes crisp, resembling an autumn day. By nightfall, it feels like winter, at least by Vietnamese standards. While this pleasant weather may make it seem like you can visit Da Lat at any time, it’s important to note the rainy season.

The dry season in Da Lat starts from November to April, then in May – June there are drizzles like a slow step to welcome the rainy season which begins from July to October. The average number of raining days in this season is from 20-25 days per month, so that is continuous. But be worry-free, if you do not have another time frame, indeed Da Lat is still beautiful.

How to get to Dalat?

By bus

The most common and convenient mode of transportation is by sleeper bus. There are several bus companies that operate routes between Ho Chi Minh City and Dalat. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. So when you take this bus at night from Ho Chi Minh City you can spend more time in Dalat.

By flight

From Ho Chi Minh to Dalat

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City is by taking a domestic flight. There are regular flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to Lien Khuong Airport in Dalat. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

From Hanoi to Dalat

If you are traveling from Hanoi to Dalat, you can take a domestic flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Lien Khuong Airport in Dalat. The flight duration is approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Recommend Itinerary

A general recommendation that you should be to spend at least 2-3 days in Dalat to have a decent experience. Here is my draft itinerary you can consider:

This is just an itinerary to explore Dalat, if you choose to visit Vietnam and spend from 2 to 3 weeks, you can take a look at our Vietnam tour packages to have an overview of the activities as well as accommodations and prices.

Exploring the Dalat hidden gems has been an amazing journey full of discovery. Hope that all my insider tips and travel guides that I have shared on this blog inspire you to embark on unforgettable Dalat’s hidden treasures.

If you want to discover the unseen of Dalat or further with a customized itinerary that only fits your preferences, get in touch with us by filling out the form below. We will contact you within 24 hours.

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