1. Nguyen Huu Hao Palace
Nguyen Huu Hao Palace, also known as the Nam Phuong Empress Palace, is a famous tourist spot in Da Lat, renowned for its unique blend of Asian and European architectural styles. The palace serves as a museum preserving the legacy of the last empress of the Nguyen dynasty, Empress Nam Phuong. Located on a high hill behind the Lam Dong Museum, the palace was a gift designed by the empress's father for his beloved daughter.
The mansion, with its distinct European old-world charm, reflects the life of a beautiful, talented, yet unfortunate young woman—the last empress of Vietnam’s feudal dynasty, Empress Nam Phuong.
This tourist spot not only boasts exquisite European architecture but also preserves many personal items of the empress, a notable figure in history. Visitors can still see items such as the silver-plated tea set, alcohol stoves, washbasins, cigar boxes, and other personal belongings of the royal couple. The palace has been carefully preserved, with a construction style that allows it to withstand the tropical weather, maintaining much of its original form to this day. The palace also includes restored items like oil lamps, chandeliers, vintage radios, and old furniture, all contributing to a nostalgic and charming atmosphere.
Empress Nam Phuong
Nguyen Huu Hao Palace2. Da Lat Flower Garden
It’s no surprise that Da Lat is known as the city of a thousand flowers. If you ever visit Da Lat, be sure to stop by the Da Lat Flower Garden.
Located at 2 Tran Nhan Tong Street, Da Lat, this is considered the largest park in the city, showcasing over 300 different species of flowers for visitors to enjoy.
In addition, you can admire the picturesque Gu Hill and the tranquil Xuan Huong Lake, making it the perfect spot to capture memorable moments during your trip.
Da Lat’s flower garden is a true paradise for flower lovers. As you may know, the city’s 'specialty' is flowers, and that’s why it has earned the romantic title 'The City of a Thousand Flowers.'
No visit to Da Lat is complete without a flower tour, as few places in Vietnam boast such beautiful and diverse blooms as Da Lat.
Located in the heart of the city with the serene Xuan Huong Lake right in front, the Da Lat Flower Garden is the gathering place for the most beautiful flowers the city has to offer.
The garden, built in 1966, initially didn’t receive much care due to limited tourism. However, by 1985, as the number of visitors to Da Lat increased, the garden was renovated and became a significant landmark in the city, attracting many tourists.
A Blossom of Colors
Da Lat Flower Garden3. Truc Lam Zen Garden
Located at the gateway to the city of flowers, Truc Lam Zen Garden is situated 15 kilometers south of Da Lat in the K’long-Hiep An-Duc Trong region of Lam Dong.
With its poetic scenery and unique architecture, it has become a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking tranquility.
Founded in 2006, Truc Lam Zen Garden takes full advantage of the breathtaking natural surroundings, blending with the craftsmanship of local artisans to create a stunning, picturesque landscape that has captivated the hearts of many visitors.
In the hustle and bustle of life, the noise of traffic, factory fumes, and work pressures can wear one down. In such times, we long for peace and a place to release our worries. What could be better than finding stillness and peace while meditating with That Tue Hien in the Truc Lam Zen Garden?
From the hilltop, visitors can gaze at the endless green hills, listen to the gentle flow of water, and the cheerful chirping of birds. In this serene natural setting, one can close their eyes, let go of life’s burdens, and harmonize with nature.
It’s truly a blissful experience to inhale the soft fragrance of flowers and hear the rustling of leaves as a gentle breeze passes, immersing oneself in this poetic and peaceful atmosphere.
Restaurant in Truc Lam Zen Garden
Truc Lam Zen Garden Resort4. Cu Lan Village
Located 25 kilometers from the center of Da Lat, Cu Lan Village is an eco-tourism destination that draws many visitors with its surrounding green pine hills, charming streams, and the cultural space of the local ethnic minority communities.
Immersing yourself in the quiet and pristine atmosphere of Cu Lan Village will help you forget all the worries of daily life. Upon entering the resort, you have two options to explore the area: you can either take a Jeep ride down the rugged, rocky paths, crossing rushing streams to experience an adventurous journey through the majestic mountains of the Central Highlands, or you can walk along paths lined with colorful Kim Cham flowers, crossing charming suspension bridges amid the towering mountains.
There are many theories as to why the village is named Cu Lan. Each explanation is interesting, but the most widely known version is the one told by the villagers. Long ago, a young man from the plains ventured into the mountains with the dream of gathering stones to build a paradise in the forest for his beloved.
Perhaps because of his dream to 'gather stones to mend the sky' and his somewhat naive way of doing things, people called him Cu Lan. The story of Cu Lan gathering stones to build a paradise in the deep forest to present to his love reached the ears of the girl he cherished. She left the city to journey into the mountains. Overwhelmed by the beauty of nature and moved by Cu Lan's sincere love, the girl decided to stay with him in the heart of the forest.
Though they never built the paradise they dreamed of, they created a small village by a quiet stream, amidst the green hills and wildflowers. From then on, the village was known as Cu Lan Village.
Cu Lan Village - A Fairytale-like Village
Làng Cù Lần
5. Biệt thự Hằng Nga - Crazy house
Biệt thự Hằng Nga được xây dựng từ năm 1990 bởi nữ kiến trúc sư nổi tiếng Đặng Việt Nga, ngôi nhà được lấy cảm hứng từ các hình ảnh của thiên nhiên như màn nhện, gốc cây, hang động... bên trong khuôn viên của biệt thự được thiết kế rất nhiều ngôi nhà được liên kết với nhau bằng các lối đi nhỏ, uốn cong theo những đường nét tự nhiên.
Địa điểm này tuy đã có hàng thập kỷ nhưng độ nóng của nó đối với khách tham quan thì dường như chưa bao giờ giảm nhiệt. Một nét độc đáo rất riêng để phân biệt Biệt thự Hằng Nga với các ngôi biệt thự khác chính là lối kiến trúc độc đáo bởi vẻ ma mị lôi cuốn bạn.
Biệt thự Hằng Nga được xây dựng từ năm 1990. Biệt thự nằm trong khuôn viên rộng gần 1900 mét vuông. Nếu ghé thăm Đà Lạt chỉ cần nói tìm Biệt thự Hằng Nga thì hầu như người dân bản xứ ai cũng biết địa chỉ số 3, đường Huỳnh Thúc Kháng. Và chủ nhân ngôi nhà độc đáo này là kiến trúc sư Đặng Việt Nga, tốt nghiệp Đại học kiến trúc Moscow (1959 – 1965) và tự học lấy bằng tiến sĩ tại Nga đến năm 1972.
Bên ngoài biệt thự được trang hoàng bằng những ô cửa sổ. Bởi tuân theo lối kiến trúc ấy nên những khung cửa sổ cũng gồ ghề, lồi lõm bởi sự cắt xén theo những hình dáng kỳ lạ, không theo một quy trình, một trật tự nào cả. Giữa những gốc cây, thân cây như trồi lên mặt đất thì khung cửa sổ như những đôi mắt thần bí đang âm thầm quan sát, theo dõi bước chân du hí của bạn.
Kiến trúc độc đáo của biệt thự Hằng Nga
The Relaxation Room at Crazy House6. Bao Dai Waterfall
The Bao Dai Waterfall is a magnificent natural beauty gifted to this once barren land. From as far as 3km away, the thunderous roar of the waterfall, named after Vietnam’s last emperor, can already be heard.
Also known as Jraiblian, the waterfall has a mystical and dreamy allure that leaves an indelible impression on all who pass by, with its raw beauty nestled amidst the grandiose mountains.
The name Jraiblian is familiar to the Churu ethnic group, meaning 'high stone waterfall.' Later, it became known as Bao Dai Waterfall after Emperor Bao Dai frequently visited the area for hunting and chose the waterfall as a resting place during his trips.
As you approach the waterfall, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring view of nature, with the waterfall cascading down into a crystal-clear lake surrounded by moss-covered cliffs. Orchids bloom between the rocks, adding color and fragrance to the picturesque scene.
At Bao Dai Waterfall, you'll enjoy the magnificent beauty of the pine forest, with the constant melody of birdsong. The most striking feature is the three waterfalls, with water spraying in all directions and creating rainbows under the sunlight, providing a mesmerizing experience that connects you with nature.
Bao Dai Waterfall - A Masterpiece of Nature
Bao Dai Waterfall7. Da Lat Market
Da Lat Market is a must-visit for any traveler coming to the Flower Festival city. Not only is it a lively hub of commerce, but it also attracts many visitors who come to admire its vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, unique items from Da Lat, and souvenirs perfect for family and friends.
When you visit Da Lat Market, you'll be pleased with the extensive selection of goods, clean and tidy food stalls, and reasonable prices.
The market offers a wide range of products, including fresh vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, artichokes, and spinach, as well as beautiful flowers such as roses, chrysanthemums, lilies, and more. Da Lat's specialties are also abundant, with strawberries, persimmons, avocados, strawberry jams, sweet potatoes, dried persimmons, rice wine, and various other local products. The food stalls offer dishes from all over Vietnam, and you can also find clothing, especially woolen goods such as sweaters, hats, and scarves, whether machine-made or hand-knitted. There are also souvenir shops to browse and explore.
A Corner of Da Lat Market
Dalat Market8. Tuyen Lam Lake
Visitors will be amazed by the breathtaking scenery and the perfect harmony between nature and the vast landscape. Just taking a deep breath here instantly brings a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Tuyen Lam Lake is expansive, with a refreshing, cool climate and a peaceful atmosphere. The area is adorned with natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, lakes, streams, and waterfalls, which only enhance its beauty, making it rich in both color and charm.
The scenery here is incredibly diverse and captivating, and words can’t truly capture its essence. It’s a place you must visit in person to fully experience and enjoy.
You can engage in various unique and memorable activities such as hiking, fishing, and especially camping, which is a must for any travel enthusiast. Tuyen Lam Lake is located just 6 km south of Dalat city center, right beneath the Truc Lam Zen Monastery.
Every morning, Tuyen Lam Lake is enveloped in a misty, dream-like fog, transforming the area into a magical landscape. As the sun rises, the fog lifts, and the sound of birds greeting the day fills the air. Instead of exploring by motorbike along the lake’s paths, it’s much more delightful to enjoy the view while rowing a boat across the lake.
Tuyen Lam Lake
Tuyen Lam Lake9. Dan Kia Lake – Golden Stream
Anyone who has visited the Central Highlands and Dalat can never forget the picturesque landscape of Dan Kia Lake – Golden Stream. It’s a painting of a pristine, tranquil, and poetic nature that captivates visitors all year round. This famous tourist destination in Dalat adds a unique touch to the city's charm, with endless pine forests hidden in mist and gently flowing streams. The air here is fresh and cool, offering a refreshing contrast to the noise and hustle of city life.
Dan Kia Lake – Golden Stream is renowned for its serene beauty, and the wild, natural charm of the lake has the power to rejuvenate one's spirit. Breathing in the pure air here, you’ll feel the vitality of life and nature blending harmoniously.
Today, visitors to Dan Kia – Golden Stream can explore the Golden Valley, Ankroet Waterfall, Golden Stream Dam, and Dan Kia Lake. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the lake from the Radar Peak (1950m) in the Lang Biang Tourist Area.
Dan Kia Lake – Golden Stream
Dan Kia Lake – Golden Stream10. Langbiang Peak
Langbiang is a captivating tourist destination in the misty city of Dalat, known as a symbol of eternal love. It’s a place where visitors must go to witness the city’s poetic beauty from above, hear stories of love, and enjoy various exciting activities.
Langbiang is named after two legendary figures of the K'Ho people: K’lang, the young man, and H’biang, the maiden. The Langbiang mountain range consists of two peaks: Mount Ông at 2,124 meters above sea level and Mount Bà at 2,167 meters.
From the center of Dalat, Mount Ông is to the right, while Mount Bà lies to the left. The Langbiang range is often referred to as the “roof of Dalat” and is an unmissable destination for tourists visiting the region.
According to legend, K’lang and H’biang met while picking fruit in the mountains. H’biang was attacked by a pack of wolves, and unable to escape, she was rescued by K’lang. The two fell in love, but their relationship faced many challenges due to a curse between their two tribes. Despite these obstacles, they married and moved to the mountaintop to live together.
Tragically, when H’biang fell ill, K’lang sought help from the village. H’biang died after taking an arrow meant for him. Heartbroken, K’lang’s tears flowed so abundantly they formed the Da Nhim River. The mountain where they lived together was named after them, becoming the symbol of eternal love: Langbiang Mountain.
Langbiang Peak
Langbiang Peak11. Dambri Waterfall
Dambri Waterfall in Bao Loc is one of the most majestic waterfalls in the Central Highlands. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain and forest scenery, along with a range of exciting activities, Dambri has become a favorite destination for many travelers.
Located about 17 kilometers from Bao Loc city, it sits amid an untouched, pristine rainforest with rare flora and fauna. Today, the Dambri Ecotourism Area is a popular spot for tourists from all over.
Legend has it that a young couple from the Co Ho ethnic group often met by the waterfall. One day, the young man mysteriously disappeared without a trace. The woman waited and cried for him, but he never returned. Eventually, her tears formed the powerful waterfall. The Co Ho people named it Dambri, meaning "Waiting".
Traveling about 18 km from Bao Loc town, passing through lush hills of tea, coffee, and fruit trees, visitors will arrive at the Dambri Ecotourism Area to enjoy the majestic views and the cool atmosphere of the South Central Highlands rainforest.
Dambri is the tallest waterfall in Lam Dong, with water cascading down from over 90 meters, creating a magnificent sight.
Dambri Ecotourism Area
Dambri Ecological Village
Located on Mai Anh Dao Street, Love Valley is one of the most picturesque and romantic attractions in Da Lat. Not only is it a popular tourist destination, but it also serves as an ideal spot for couples in love to enjoy a peaceful moment together.
During the French colonial period, the valley was known for its charm, and it was named Valley d'Amour. It quickly became a romantic getaway for French couples in Da Lat.
Between 1949 and 1954, while Bao Dai was the head of state in Da Lat, the valley was renamed Peace Valley. After his exile to France, in 1956, the mayor of Da Lat, Nguyen Vy, proposed renaming the valley to Love Valley, which remains its name today.
In 1972, the city of Da Lat constructed a dam across a small stream, forming the beautiful Da Thien Lake. Since then, Love Valley has been even more enchanting, with rows of pine trees lining the lake, their reflections creating a magical atmosphere that adds to the valley's allure.
The Romantic Scenery of Love Valley
A Corner of Love Valley
Dream Hill Resort is located at 05 – 07 Mai Anh Dao Street, Ward 8, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, covering nearly 12 hectares. It was officially opened in 2003 to mark the 110th anniversary of Da Lat's establishment and development, and has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors near and far.
The resort is situated next to Love Valley, a well-known tourist spot in Da Lat, and is just 4 km away from the city center.
Over the years, Dream Hill has undergone several upgrades and developments, starting with the Dragon Lake project, which began in 1978. Today, Dream Hill has become a fully developed tourist resort, featuring a new look that celebrates the unique cultural identity of the Central Highlands.
Visitors to Dream Hill can enjoy a blend of man-made architecture and natural scenery, creating a romantic and charming atmosphere, resembling a “miniature Da Lat.”
A notable highlight of Dream Hill is the Wishing Tree, also known as the Tree of Love. It is said that when couples tie a pink ribbon around a small stone and throw it onto the tree, their love will last forever if the ribbon stays on the tree.
Dream Hill Attracts Many Visitors
Dream Hill - A Scenic Spot in Da Lat (A Resort at Dream Hill)
14. Truc Lam Zen Monastery
Located 5 km from Da Lat's city center, on the Phoenix Mountain range, Truc Lam Zen Monastery is part of the Yen Tu Zen sect and attracts many visitors for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. It is not only the largest Zen monastery in Vietnam but also renowned for its tranquil natural surroundings.
Visitors can enjoy a calm and reflective experience in the sacred ambiance of the Buddhist site while taking in the breathtaking views of Tuyen Lam Lake behind the Phoenix Mountain.
Truc Lam Zen Monastery is a stunning architectural complex set beside Tuyen Lam Lake. From the lake, visitors can follow a small path with 140 stone steps, passing through endless pine forests, to reach the monastery at the top.
Upon arrival, visitors pass through a majestic gate and enter the main hall of the monastery. The main hall spans 192 square meters and features simple yet meaningful Buddhist artifacts. In the center of the altar stands a 2-meter-tall statue of Buddha Shakyamuni holding a lotus flower in his right hand. On the Buddha's right is the Bodhisattva Manjushri riding a lion, and on the left is the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra riding a white elephant with six tusks. Above the altar, there are exquisite carvings of the eight manifestations of Buddha and intricately carved wooden structures.
The main hall's roof is covered with glazed tiles, which curve elegantly, symbolizing the graceful style of Vietnamese architecture and the simplicity of Zen Buddhism. To the left of the hall's courtyard stands a drum tower, while the bell tower on the right is adorned with fine sculptures, housing a 1.1-ton bell cast in Hue.
A Peaceful Sanctuary in the Buddhist Realm
Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Da Lat