As the opening destination for the journey to discover Da Lat that travel believers choose, Da Lat train station is known as one of the oldest – unique – strangest stations in Vietnam. The most prominent is probably the Da Lat railway station with the only cog-shaped railway in Vietnam.
The following article provides some information about Da Lat railway station , hopefully it will be useful for you on your upcoming trip to the city of thousands of flowers.
Introduction to Da Lat Railway Station
Da Lat Railway Station, one of the most iconic landmarks of Da Lat City, was built by the French between 1932 and 1938. Originally serving as the starting point of the 84 km Thap Cham – Da Lat railway line, the station stands out for its distinctive design featuring three pointed roofs, symbolizing either the majestic Langbiang Mountain peaks or the traditional communal houses of Vietnam’s Central Highlands.
Recognized as a National Cultural and Historical Monument, Da Lat Railway Station has become one of the city’s most popular attractions. Today, the station operates only one active route – the 7 km Da Lat – Trai Mat line, offering travelers a scenic journey to notable sites such as the famous Linh Phuoc Pagoda.
History and Architecture of Da Lat Railway Station
The History of Da Lat Railway Station
According to historical records, the Thap Cham – Da Lat railway line was approved for construction by Governor-General Paul Doumer between 1908 and 1922. The Kroong Pha – Dran cog railway section, measuring 10 km, was designed to Swiss standards by the Asia Company to conquer the steep Song Pha Pass, which has an elevation gain of 1,000 meters and a gradient of 12%.
After the French withdrew, the railway continued to operate during the Republic of Vietnam era, serving mainly military purposes. By 1972, the escalation of the war forced the line to halt operations. Following Vietnam’s reunification, the railway was restored and reopened on May 19, 1975, to commemorate the birthday of President Ho Chi Minh.
Once Da Lat Railway Station became operational, the city saw a growing influx of tourists. Each train at the time typically had three passenger carriages, divided into three service classes.
The Unique Architecture of Da Lat Railway Station
Da Lat Railway Station was designed by French architects Moncet and Reveron, and constructed by Vietnamese contractor Vo Dinh Dung at a cost of 200,000 francs. Its distinctive shape evokes the image of the Langbiang Mountain range, with three sharp triangular roofs. The station measures 66.5 meters in length, 11.4 meters in width, and 11 meters in height, reflecting architectural styles similar to train stations in Southern France.
A special feature is the antique clock on the front façade, marking the exact time when Dr. Alexandre Yersin discovered Da Lat.
The 84 km Song Pha – Da Lat cog railway, built to Swiss engineering standards in 1932, originally operated with 16 locomotives. The track consisted of three rails, with a central cog rail to ensure safety when climbing steep gradients. At the time, it was considered one of the most unique railway systems in the world.
To conquer the dramatic Ngoan Muc Pass and reach the Da Lat plateau, trains had to pass through multiple mountain tunnels, propelled by the locomotive from behind. The ambitious project took ten years to complete and cost two to three times more than regular railway construction due to its complex engineering.
Top 5 of Da Lat train station
The highest train station in Vietnam
Da Lat city is located at an altitude of 1,500m above sea level, so Da Lat station is considered the highest station in Vietnam. The 16km long cog railway, over 1,000m high of Song Pha pass with a slope of 12% is designed in Swiss style.
The most unique old station in Indochina
Designed by two French architects, Moncet and Reveron, and the construction and contractor is a Vietnamese named Vo Dinh Dung, Da Lat station was built with a construction cost of 200,000 Francs.
This work was started construction in 1932 and completed in 1938 with a length of 66.5m; 11.4m wide; 11m high).
This railway is the way to help promote trade in Da Lat, the agricultural products of the cold country are brought everywhere.
The most beautiful train station in Vietnam
It is one of the most beautiful ancient architectural works of the city. Da Lat, Da Lat station is considered as the most beautiful ancient train station in Vietnam and Indochina.
Although the scale is not large, but with unique architecture, in harmony with nature, Da Lat station is a beautiful construction, creating an urban highlight.
Steam locomotive and the only gear system in Vietnam
The locomotive for two pairs of trains at the station is a dedicated steam locomotive HG 4/4 – the code of the locomotive for railways with serrated rails ordered by CFI Company in Indochina The company in Switzerland make.
Each steam locomotive usually has 1 driver, 2 employees in charge of water refueling and coal burning. To pass the pass, each locomotive is fitted with a gear system, when going up the pass, the train driver will control this system to “grab” tightly on the cog line between the two tracks to climb uphill.
The station with the most unique symbol in Vietnam
With a unique architectural style, Da Lat station is quite similar to a train station in the South of France with the part protruding from the roof and indenting at the foot in the vertical direction.
The station area with 3 spikes, stylized three peaks of the Langbiang plateau or the typical communal roof of the Central Highlands, bears the imprint of indigenous culture.
In particular, the front also has a large clock face recording the time that Dr. Alexandre Yersin discovered the Langbiang and Da Lat plateaus (15:30 on June 21, 1893).
How to Get to Da Lat Railway Station and Travel Tips
Directions to Da Lat Railway Station from the City Center
Da Lat Railway Station is located at No. 1 Quang Trung Street, Ward 10, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province. Thanks to its central location, visitors can easily reach the station by motorbike, car, taxi, or private car rental service in Da Lat from VnCarRentals.com.
If you prefer to drive yourself, simply follow Google Maps or take this route:
- Start from Da Lat Market and cross Ong Dao Bridge.
- Continue along Tran Quoc Toan Street heading toward Lam Vien Square.
- Turn onto Yersin Street, then continue to Nguyen Trai Street.
Attractions Near Da Lat Railway Station
A visit to Da Lat Railway Station wouldn’t be complete without exploring the nearby attractions. All within a few kilometers, these spots offer unique experiences in culture, nature, and local lifestyle.
- Lam Vien Square (about 1 km away) – Famous for its iconic wild sunflower dome and giant artichoke bud, the square is perfect for a relaxing stroll, street performances, and eye-catching photo opportunities.
- Xuan Huong Lake (about 1 km away) – Often called the “heart” of Da Lat, this serene lake is ideal for sightseeing, enjoying coffee at lakeside cafes, or joining activities such as swan pedal boating and horse-drawn carriage rides.
- Da Lat Night Market (about 2.5 km away) – A bustling hub for street food lovers and souvenir hunters, where you can savor warm local delicacies in the cool mountain air.
- Dinh 1 (Bao Dai’s Palace 1) (about 3 km away) – Nestled among pine forests, this European-style mansion boasts vintage architecture, elegant gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visiting Experience and Services at Da Lat Railway Station
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
Da Lat Railway Station welcomes visitors daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, offering the perfect opportunity to admire its unique architecture and historic charm. The entrance fee is only 50,000 VND per person, making it an affordable way to explore, take photos, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this iconic landmark.
Train Timetable
Da Lat Railway Station operates special tourist trains, including the popular Da Lat – Trai Mat route.
Da Lat → Trai Mat
This scenic train journey runs 5 to 7 round trips per day, with departures from Da Lat at 7:50, 9:55, 12:00, 14:05, 16:10, 18:15, and 20:20. The ride takes about 30 minutes, followed by another 30 minutes for visitors to explore the famous Linh Phuoc Pagoda.
Trai Mat → Da Lat
The return trips from Trai Mat to Da Lat also operate 7 times daily at 8:50, 10:55, 13:00, 15:05, 17:10, 19:15, and 21:20, with the same travel time of approximately 30 minutes.
Important Note: The DL3 train (Da Lat – Trai Mat, 9:55 – 10:25) and the DL4 train (Trai Mat – Da Lat, 10:55 – 11:25) run daily without exception. All other services may operate depending on passenger demand.
Ticket Prices: A one-way ticket costs 72,000 – 100,000 VND, while round-trip tickets offer up to 25% savings. Groups of 10 or more can enjoy additional discounts from 15% to 40%.
During the trip, passengers can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, sip on fragrant artichoke tea, and connect to free Wi-Fi throughout the journey.
Unique Records of Da Lat Railway Station
Da Lat Railway Station holds several remarkable distinctions:
- Highest railway station in Vietnam: Perched at 1,500 meters above sea level, featuring a 16 km Swiss-designed cog railway that climbs a steep 12% gradient to conquer Song Pha Pass, with a height difference of 1,000 meters.
- Oldest railway station in Indochina: Built in the 1930s, it remains one of the most historically significant and architecturally distinctive train stations in Vietnam.
- Most beautiful railway station in Vietnam: A timeless masterpiece of colonial architecture, it has withstood decades of history while preserving its original charm and becoming a true symbol of Da Lat.
- Only steam locomotive in Vietnam: Home to a rare steam engine and a unique 16 km cog railway track, treasures that can only be found in a few places worldwide.
- Most unique architectural symbol: Inspired by Southern French train stations, the building features three pyramid-shaped roofs representing the Langbiang mountain peaks or the communal houses of the Central Highlands ethnic groups.
Conclusion
Da Lat Railway Station is not only a striking architectural landmark but also a precious gift of time bestowed upon this charming mountain city. With its unique historical, cultural, and tourism value, it truly deserves a spot on every traveler’s itinerary when exploring the City of Eternal Spring.
When you visit Da Lat, be sure to take a moment to admire the station’s vintage beauty, capture stunning photographs, and experience the unforgettable journey aboard its nostalgic train ride.
