Winter arrives, and Dalat transforms into its most beautiful season of the year. Moreover, there are unique festivals organized during this time. Visit Dalat in December to witness firsthand the extraordinary things that this city of thousands of flowers has to offer, as introduced by Mytour through the article below.
December Weather in Dalat
December, when the weather turns to winter, is also the time when Dalat enters its most beautiful period. However, during this time, we should prepare warm clothes to be ready to explore many places. The temperature in Dalat during winter ranges from 14 to 22 degrees Celsius. The chilly air and misty fog make us want to sleep until noon before waking up.
Typically during December days in Dalat, there is gentle warmth from the sun, while in the evening, mist rises, and occasionally light drizzles occur. Particularly nearing Christmas, this is when Dalat is at its coldest and most charming, attracting numerous visitors each year.
Reasons to Visit Dalat in December
As autumn transitions and gives way to a surge of cold air, it remains the time when various flowers bloom most abundantly throughout the year, especially the pink grass hills or the beloved white daisies sought after by many adventurers. Moreover, December also marks a highly captivating event, the Annual Opening Festival, missing which would lead to much regret.
Which Budget Hotels to Choose for Traveling to Dalat in December?
December witnesses a surge in bookings across hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and resorts in Dalat. As it marks a splendid tourist season, it's imperative to secure accommodations in Dalat hotels early to avoid room shortages or unsatisfactory options.
As per seasoned travelers' advice, opting for accommodations near the city center or market facilitates easier exploration. Not only does it save considerable taxi or motorbike fare, but it also allows leisurely strolls to desired destinations.
Depending on personal preferences and financial situations, choosing between 5-star, 3-star, budget, or luxury Dalat hotels is feasible. Correspondingly, service quality aligns with the expenditure. For the best deals, Mytour suggests keeping an eye on seasonal promotions by various hotels, constantly updated on our website and Facebook page.
Marvel at the enchanting Dalat flower scenes in December
Blessed by nature, the city of thousands of flowers dons a vibrant cloak of myriad hues. These blossoms not only lend Dalat a unique charm but also imbue it with an air of romance and dreaminess, reminiscent of fairy tales.
Even in the early days of December, Dalat showcases a myriad of blooms, enticing visitors to linger amidst its chilly atmosphere. Amidst the cool breeze, the sight of blossoms adorning the landscape becomes even more enchanting, akin to a masterpiece captured in each photograph.
1. White Mustard Flowers
As winter descends and the wild sunflowers fade, it's time for the pure white mustard flowers to grace the forests of Dalat. Travelers are advised to set out early in the morning to fully appreciate their pristine beauty. Amidst the misty veil, each delicate white mustard bud emerges shyly, akin to a maiden hesitantly embracing the dawn of spring.
According to December Dalat travel experiences, white mustard flowers flourish in the Tu Tra commune, Don Duong district, Lam Dong province. Every corner here is adorned with white mustard flowers, with each petite blossom nestled closely together, stretching across the hillsides, creating an ethereal space that seems surreal. The pure and pristine beauty makes travelers feel as if time has halted, cleansing their souls.
2. Pink Grass Hills
Beyond the misty landscape, December in Dalat mesmerizes with its romantic pink grass hills. Also known as the snow grass hills, depending on the time of day, they adorn themselves with different attires. During the early dawn when the morning dew still rests upon the grass, framing the scene in pure white, they resemble hidden snowflakes beneath the pine hills, hence earning the name snow grass hills.
As the sunlight emerges, this place transforms into a radiant pink grass hill, captivating numerous hearts. Being the most beautiful grass species in the Central Highlands, pink grass hills attract enthusiastic travelers. You can visit areas like Suoi Vang and near the Valley of Love tourist area, which are among the Dalat travel destinations boasting the most beautiful pink grass hills.
3. Mimosa
If you're planning to book a budget Dalat tour for 3 days, 4 days... it's advisable to visit during the blossoming season of mimosa. Even amidst the early winter chill and the white cloak of frost, with mustard flowers and snow grass, Dalat retains its inherent allure. The golden hue of mimosa seems to illuminate the sky and warm the hearts amidst the cold weather.
Mimosa, known as the flower of eternal love, exudes a magical fragrance despite its wild growth in the forests. Blooming in small clusters of yellow, they exude elegance and charm. According to December Dalat travel experiences, you can visit places like the Valley of Love and Mimosa Pass to witness the most beautiful blossoms.
4. White Orchid
When it comes to December Dalat travel, one cannot overlook the exquisite beauty of white orchids. The white orchid season begins in December and lasts until January in the Gregorian calendar. Travelers need not venture far to admire these blossoms, as they adorn the central streets of Tran Phu, Quang Trung, and Chi Lang.
Beneath the white orchid canopy, Dalat appears like scenes from Korean or Japanese films. Mytour recommends exploring routes such as Tran Phu - Rooster Church - Dinh 2 or Quang Trung - Dalat Station - Phan Chu Trinh Intersection, all offering the most beautiful white orchid views. However, it's important to note that white orchids mostly line main roads with frequent traffic, so travelers should prioritize safety.
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Experience the festive atmosphere of Christmas in Dalat during December
December Dalat travel offers a serene Christmas amidst the bustling atmosphere amidst the characteristic chilly weather. It's a chance to don various scarves, woolen hats, coats... and all the authentic accessories rarely used in the year-round sunshine and rain of the Southern region.
Compared to other regions, the Christmas atmosphere in Dalat is quite unique. This is evident in how the people of Dalat have been greatly influenced by the French lifestyle during nearly a hundred years of colonial rule. Hence, many travelers feel that Christmas in Dalat resembles Western Christmas.
Celebrating Christmas here allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of churches bearing the distinctive characteristics of French Catholic churches. Together, they paint a Christmas picture that is both dazzling and grand for non-believers and warm and spiritual for Christians. Each church has its own unique charm, but one thing is certain: they will be the most splendidly decorated places in Dalat during Christmas.
List of churches in Dalat:
- Rooster Church – Address: 15 Tran Phu
- Domaine de Marie Church – Address: 01 Ngo Quyen
- Cam Ly Church – Address: 11 Nguyen Khuyen
- Tung Lam Church – Address: Xo Viet Nghe Tinh
- An Binh Church – Address: Trieu Viet Vuong
- Bach Dang Church – Address: Cao Thang
- Cau Dat Church – Address: National Highway 20
- Chi Lang Church – Address: 7 Ngo Van So
- Du Sinh Church – Address: 40/8 Huyen Tran Cong Chua
Season of vibrant festivals
1. Dalat Flower Festival
The Flower Festival is where various flowers, vegetables, and ornamental plants from Dalat and other regions across the country are exhibited and showcased. Moreover, this event also honors the value of different flowers and the flower-growing profession in Dalat, making it significantly meaningful. Don't forget to spare some time in your itinerary to visit Lam Vien Square and participate in various exciting programs.
2. Pink Grass Festival
Pink Grass Festival is held annually from late November to early December to promote the Dalat Flower Festival. The main flower of the festival is pink grass, growing in small clusters under the lush green pine trees and blooming only once a year. Here, Dalat tourists enjoy free admission and can indulge in various interesting activities.
Participating in the festival while enjoying camping amidst the magical pink scenery is incomparable. You can schedule your trip or quickly book budget tours to Dalat today to experience many fascinating things at the end of the year.
Cloud Hunting in Dalat December
For cloud hunting in Dalat, any season is beautiful, but December can be considered the ideal season for tourists to capture the moments of clouds swirling in the mist. During this time, the clouds often cover the paths, accompanied by gentle drizzles, making the weather somewhat chilly. If you want to capture the most beautiful cloud hunting photos, don't forget to wear warm clothes to ward off the cold.
We suggest that colorful clothes will stand out more when the sunlight shines on them. To hunt for clouds in Dalat, tourists should depart early in the morning at sunrise or in the late afternoon at sunset. If you're unsure where to go cloud hunting, some Dalat tourist spots recommended by others may be useful:
- Dap Phu Hill: Located in the outskirts, 10km from the city center.
- Hon Bo Peak: Near the Thai Phien flower village.
- Tea Hill Cau Dat: An ideal spot for those who want to experience the surrealism of clouds and mist under sprawling tea gardens.
- Thien Phuc Duc Hill: Known as a cloud hunting spot with lonely pine trees, offering views of Langbiang Peak shrouded in mist.
Indulge in Warm Drinks at Coffee Shops
1. Bui Van Ngo Coffee
Address: 31 3/4 Street, Ward 3, Dalat City
This coffee shop boasts a stunning ambiance with intertwined pine rows creating a refreshing green carpet. Sitting here, you can admire the Prenn Pass from the left side and lush green pine hills on the other. The elegant and modern space is a significant attraction for visitors. The surrounding tables and chairs are elegantly arranged, offering a chance to enjoy delicious drinks and authentic Di Linh freshly ground coffee.
2. Mê Linh Coffee Garden in Dalat
Address: Hall of Village 4, Group 20, Lam Dong
Mê Linh Coffee Garden in Dalat is hailed as the most beautiful coffee shop in Dalat. Situated next to the Sunflower and Rapeseed flower fields, it also boasts a garden of Orchids and vibrant Butterfly flowers. Additionally, the shop offers the rich flavor of weasel coffee and the exquisite Mê Linh Dalat coffee. Visitors can also observe the weasel coffee production process, take photos with adorable Alaska and Samoyed sled dogs.
3. An Cafe
Address: 63Bis Ba Tháng Hai, Ward 1, Da Lat City
The coffee shop is located right in the heart of Da Lat city, making it easy to find, situated on the slope of 3/2 street in Ward 1. An Cafe is adorned with a unique and modern style, featuring a sophisticated wooden space. The ambiance carries a nostalgic charm, nestled amidst towering cherry blossom trees, enhancing the surroundings with a romantic touch.
4. Horizon Coffee
Address: 31/6 3/4 Street, Ward 3, Da Lat City
Horizon Coffee resembles a paradise island nestled amidst picturesque mountainous forests. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush pine trees, visitors can admire the breathtaking scenery of drifting clouds enveloping the landscape. Guests can indulge in a cup of tea or coffee while gazing at the winter mist shrouding every corner.
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5. Da Lat View Coffee
Just stepping into Dalat View gives you instant photo opportunities with the super popular Dalat Sky Gate. The most impressive check-in point here is the Red Bridge, stretching nearly 40m with a curved arch, allowing you to capture dazzling photos.
Discover some beautiful spots in Dalat in December
1. Valley of Love, Dalat
The Valley of Love stands out as a prominent destination in Dalat in December, located approximately 5km north of the city center. Nestled behind ancient pine trees and winding through hillsides, this place is always a must-visit for its poetic, enchanting beauty. Below the valley lies the Da Thien Lake Dam, and in December, amidst the misty weather, you can visit here in the early morning or late afternoon to admire the enchanting, mystical foggy scenery.
2. Langbiang Peak
Langbiang Peak is another must-visit destination in Dalat in December. If you're an adventure enthusiast and want to immerse yourself in nature, exploring the local culture, then this mountain peak is the perfect choice. From here, travelers can take in the panoramic view of the city of thousands of flowers, and the golden and silver streams appear extremely romantic.
Looking down from the Ra-da peak, we feel like we're lost in a fairyland from the famous story 'The Story of LangBiang' by the writer Nguyen Nhat Anh. The drifting clouds in the December sky, just a touch away.
3. Fairytale Land
Regarded as the holy land of virtual living, Dalat Fairytale Land resembles a unique fairy garden, where the dwarves have invaded to settle down. The quirky and eye-catching Hobbiton houses mesmerize visitors, hidden within a dreamy and mystical natural backdrop.
What's more intriguing than visiting the village of dwarves and stepping into the wine cellar? Here, more than 15,000 bottles of Vinh Tien wine are stored and preserved, in a luxurious and cozy atmosphere.
4. Kombi Land
'The kingdom of dragon fruit in the heart of Dalat' is an irresistible destination this December. Stepping here, you'll feel like you're lost in a completely different world from the romantic, gentle vibe of Dalat. Kombi Land is stronger, more liberal, and wilder. When you arrive, you'll be greeted by tall yellow robot models, and deep inside the compound are countless cleverly arranged miniatures.
The scattered buses along with the dragon fruit are impressive highlights, creating the feeling of wandering in a desert. Besides that wild scenery, Kombi Land also offers a serene space by the calm blue lake. If you're tired, you can stop and rest at the coffee area after exploring the various nooks and crannies.
5. Domaine de Marie Church, Dalat
Dalat in December, especially in the days nearing the end of the year, you'll keenly feel the chilly weather of this foggy city. Therefore, Christmas here becomes even more special for those accustomed to the two-season sunny and rainy climate of the South. Especially if you're here during Christmas, don't forget to visit Domaine de Marie Church, where the wife of the Governor-General of French Indochina at that time, Jean Decoux, appealed for donations to build.
The church was built in the 17th-century European style, with the most unique feature being the absence of a bell tower. The lighting system inside the church is made of stained glass, and the walls are painted with a single color, deep pink. Under the December sun and mist, the image of Domaine de Marie Church becomes radiant and vibrant.
6. Cau Dat Tea Hill
The best time to visit Cau Dat Tea Hill is during the end of the year. The December Dalat travel guide suggests you come here around before 8:30 in the morning or after 4 p.m. to capture the most beautiful and unique photos. Although Dalat's sun is not as harsh as Saigon's, it can still be intense on the skin, so we need to pay attention to the hours to avoid times of high UV intensity.
Standing on Cau Dat Tea Hill, casting your eyes far, you can admire the scenery of endless green tea bushes. When the morning sun is still soft, gently piercing through the thin mist layer, shining on the tea hill, it turns this place into a picturesque and romantic scene.
7. Lam Vien Square
Lam Vien Square is a large architectural complex located right in the city center. With a total area of over 70,000 square meters and the front facing Xuan Huong Lake. With its prime location, cool space, and many unique architectural works, the square attracts many domestic and foreign tourists to visit, especially young people who come to explore and have fun.
8. Tuyen Lam Lake
Additionally, there's another fascinating sightseeing spot that many young people love to explore in December, Tuyen Lam Lake. Known as the largest freshwater lake in Dalat, the lake boasts numerous islets surrounded by lush pine forests. It's often affectionately referred to as the 'First Southern Heavenly Lake' due to its pristine and enchanting beauty that words fail to describe.
You can combine your excursion to Tuyen Lam Lake with various activities such as strawberry picking, admiring the maple forest, or rowing on the lake to marvel at the scenery and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere it offers. Consider booking an affordable hotel room at the Terracotta Resort nearby, which offers all amenities and stunning natural mountainous scenery.
What to Eat in Dalat in December?
1. Banh Can
Originating from the Central region, Banh Can has acquired the distinctive flavor of the foggy land over the years. This rustic cake comes at an affordable price, ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 Vietnamese dong depending on the filling. Its unique taste, enjoyed under the cold weather of early winter, allows diners to gather around and relish the piping hot Banh Can with friends.
2. Chicken in Lá É Hotpot
Lá É is a common aromatic herb in the Central and Central Highlands regions, belonging to the same family as basil. In fact, preparing Chicken in Lá É Hotpot in Dalat is quite simple, similar to cooking regular mushroom chicken hotpot. When eating, you use lá é leaves for dipping, resulting in the famous Chicken in Lá É Hotpot of Dalat. There's nothing like sitting around a warm hotpot amidst the chilly weather. Mytour recommends two authentic places for Chicken in Lá É Hotpot: Tao Ngộ and Quán 668, known for their rich flavor using free-range chicken, abundant mushrooms, and lá é leaves.
3. Grilled Rice Paper
Grilled Rice Paper, often dubbed as the 'Vietnamese-style pizza' by foreign tourists, offers a range of toppings from seafood to sausage, and delicious, gooey cheese. You can choose your favorite toppings and wait for the owner to grill them. Amidst the chilly winter atmosphere, enjoying crispy hot Grilled Rice Paper is truly delightful.
4. Ba Toa Beef Hotpot
Ba Toa Beef Hotpot in Dalat is a must-try dish for travelers visiting Dalat in December. The rich and flavorful broth, tender and fragrant beef, along with fresh accompanying vegetables, are major highlights. The warmth and exceptional flavor of Ba Toa Beef Hotpot cannot be found anywhere else. On a cold day, nothing beats the satisfaction of sipping hot broth and biting into tender beef slices.
5. Rice Cooked in Bamboo
Although it may look simple and rustic, Dalat's Rice Cooked in Bamboo is meticulously prepared. Each bamboo tube of rice requires careful monitoring of water and fire to ensure the rice is neither too wet nor too dry. Diners can enjoy the warm Rice Cooked in Bamboo with a side of pickled vegetables, stir-fried water spinach with garlic, braised freshwater fish... according to their taste preferences.
What to Wear When Traveling to Dalat in December
Clothing is always a concern for travelers, especially for women, before going on a trip. When visiting Dalat in December, you can apply the following stylish outfit mix to explore without worrying about feeling cold.
✔ Morning: In the cool spring-like mornings, you can freely wear short dresses or A-line dresses. Layering with a light-colored jacket outside will make you more attractive under Dalat's weather. Alternatively, those who prefer a more casual look can mix a button-up shirt with a skirt. For those who prefer simplicity, just combine a t-shirt, shorts, and sneakers, and you're good to go.
✔ Noon: By this time, Dalat has a bit of sunshine but not as intense as Saigon. Ladies can wear summer outfits such as shorts and t-shirts, short dresses, off-shoulder tops... If you prefer to avoid the sun, you can opt for a t-shirt and jeans combo, a foolproof outfit. For men, the options are fewer; you can choose a t-shirt or shorts and wear loafers or sandals, still looking confident and dynamic.
✔ Late Afternoon: With a hint of autumn in the air, ladies can opt for a maxi dress with a thin knit cardigan to stroll around Xuan Huong Lake. As for men, a long-sleeved shirt or thin t-shirt paired with jeans would be suitable.
✔ Evening: As the weather gets colder, especially in the last days of the year, it's important to keep warm with knit sweaters/jackets, beanies, scarves, and even long socks. For extra caution, you can bring an umbrella to shield yourself from possible light showers.
Tips for Traveling to Dalat in December
If you're planning a trip to Dalat in December, here are some things to prepare for to ensure a smooth journey:
- Prepare warm clothing as the nights can be quite chilly, and there are often foggy days.
- Since it's the holiday season, Dalat tends to be crowded, so make sure to book your Dalat hotel as early as possible to avoid room shortages.
- Be mentally prepared for the increased crowds, especially on weekends, Christmas, or December 31st.
- Dalat in November and December starts to have ripe wind-dried persimmons, a specialty worth buying as gifts for family and friends if you're visiting at the end of the year.
- Although Dalat has strawberries in December, they may not be as beautiful and tasty due to the recent rainy season.
- Bring a power bank to capture amazing moments all day long without worrying about missing out on great shots.
- For those traveling with elderly family members, consider booking affordable package tours to Dalat for easier transportation.
With the information above, we hope you have a better idea of where to go and what to do when visiting Dalat in December. For more detailed information on year-end tours, cheap Tet holiday tours, please contact the Mytour hotline for detailed advice and program selection. In addition to tours, we also have thousands of hot deals on hotels, cheap flights to Dalat, all-inclusive Dalat combos waiting for you to explore.