Da Lat

Its name, Da Lat, comprises two words: "da" means "river" or source and "Lat" is a local tribe, the Lat. Da Lat city is the center of Lam Dong province, elevated at 1500 meters of altitude, the highest part of the West Central Highlands. Nestling in the isolated valley hugged by the lushly pine-forested mountains, Da Lat offers tranquility in the midst of spectacular scenery. Various kinds of vegetation and flower enjoy growing in the large fertile terrain and mild climate of Da Lat, allowing then its title as "the city of eternal spring". Flowers and vegetable are then the main commodities of the city; many are exported to several countries. Its average temperature never dips below 10°C in winter and not over 20°C in summer, making the city an ideal place for relaxing.

Its picturesque landscapes and romantic ambiance desperately charmed the European, especially the French during the colonial period that they have built villas, communities and holiday residence in the area. Then Da Lat city was founded in 1893 as a balmy respite from the sweltering temperature of Mekong Delta among the expatriates living in Vietnam at that time. Hence, Da La used to be called "Le Petit Paris" or "The Little Paris" with its French-styled buildings like chalets, cafes and villas on the hillside or in the city center, allowing the intriguing atmosphere of the colonial past.

Due to its blissful location in the natural paradise, the area around Da Lat is dotted with lakes, waterfalls, pine-forests, and flower gardens, all have their poetic names according to local legends or remarkable memories. Da lat today is one of the most famous natural retreat as well as the well-known honeymoon spot, attracting a great deal of visitors. It is also the gateway for cultural appreciation of ethnic minority in the Central Highlands, north of the city.

Da Lat's major attractions:

Xuan Huong Lake: Located at the center of Da Lat, Xuan Huong was created when the Cam Ly River was dammed by the French in 1919. It used to be part of golf course built for Emperor Bao Dai. The Lake is surrounded by the pine forest and lush mountains, offering the stunning scenery. At the north end of the lake is Da Lat Flower Garden. Inside the garden, paths lead you past a great flower selection of hydrangeas, roses, orchids, poinsettia, and topiary, offering the colorful sights as well as invigorating atmosphere. Da Lat is famous for its flowers and many are exported overseas.

Cho Da Lat or Da Lat Market: Coming to the central market of the city, you will be bewildered with a riot of multi-colored flowers as well as various kinds of fresh vegetable and mouthwatering fruits. Also, lacquerware, back packs, and hill-tribe handicrafts are sold here. In the morning, you can see the Montagnards carrying their goods and trading with stall holders.

Prenn falls: Nestling in the valley covered with densely lush vegetation and hugged by pine-forested hills, the Prenn Falls is a major tourist attraction in Vietnam. Go south of Da Lat, the Prenn Falls with its pure white waters tumbling down 10 meters from the cave into the pool below. From afar, its white water looks like a white curtain, painted with a flower garden and green draped hills at the foot of the falls, creating the awe-inspiring sight. You can enter the cave behind the curtain of water by a small bridge and fell the balmy spray there.

Valley of Love (Thung Lung Tinh Yeu): Originally named Valley of Peace by Emperor Bao Dai, and changed into Valley of Love by romantically minded students from Da Lat University. The Valley used to be a favorite site for big-game hunting of the Emperor. Situated about 5 kilometers from the city center, the Valley of Love is embraced by the hilly slopes covered with pine forest. Its romantic scenery and atmosphere was enhanced when the Da Thien Lake was created in 1972. Visitors can hire a boat to appreciate the lake or riding horse rented by cowboy-dressed guide along paths around the area.

Than Tho Lake or Lake of Sighs: Five kilometers northeast of the city, the Lake offers the pleasant scenery and relaxing atmosphere. The melancholy name of the lake originated in a love story of Hang Tung and Mai Nuong. Hang Tung was summoned to the Quang Trung war against the Chinese invasion. Mai Nuong thought that without her, her sweetheart would go serving the nation without worries, so she drowned herself in the lake. Witnessed this tragedy, the pine trees lining around the lake bake are said to have sighed in grief for her, hence its name. Today, the lake is teemed with tourist shops ad boat rentals for riding in the lake.

Bao Loc: Bao Loc is the famous stopover on the way to Da Lat; the area is covered with the rich cultivated plains alternating with lush hills. The main cultivations here are coffee, tea, and the mulberry whose leaves silkworms feed. Around the area of Bao Loc, locate the interesting attractions like Cat Tien national Park and Dambri Falls. The Cat Tien National Park covers a large area of tropical rainforest, a good habitat of various species of birds, wild animals, and plants. Dambri falls is a great place for relaxation for its cool climate all year round and its picturesque surroundings.

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