I see that many of you have questions about how to go to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh City. So in this article, I will introduce you to the most basic routes to be able to move quickly and easily from the city center. Ho Chi Minh to the city of thousands of flowers. Hopefully my guide on how to get to Da Lat from the nearest Ho Chi Minh City will help you have a smooth, safe and fun trip!
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Best Time to Visit Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City
Dalat, the misty city located on the Lam Vien Plateau at an altitude of over 1,500 meters above sea level, boasts a cool and fresh climate all year round. With an average temperature not exceeding 20°C, it is an ideal destination to escape the heat and enjoy the crisp air.
Dalat’s Climate Features
Dalat’s weather is characterized by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
- Dry season (November – April):
This is the most beautiful time to visit Dalat, with clear skies, minimal rainfall, and gentle sunlight. It is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying the natural scenery. - Rainy season (May – October):
Though this period sees frequent rains, it brings a unique charm with thick fog and a romantic atmosphere. It’s the best time to relax in cozy cafés and admire the misty views.
Best Months to Experience Dalat’s Beauty
- January – March: Dalat is adorned with the vibrant pink blossoms of cherry blossoms, painting the streets and the Xuan Huong Lake with a romantic hue. The crisp and cool air is ideal for those who love enchanting scenery.
- April – June: This is the time when the city is highlighted by the purple blooms of jacaranda trees. The dry weather and clear skies make it convenient for outdoor exploration.
- October – December: Dalat shines with golden wild sunflowers along the roadsides. During this period, the city is often covered in dense fog, creating magical landscapes, especially for photography enthusiasts.
Tips for Visiting Dalat at Different Times
- Peak travel season: Dalat is crowded during Tet holidays, April 30th – May 1st, and summer vacations. To avoid overbooked accommodations and increased prices, make reservations early.
- Pack appropriately: No matter the season, always bring warm clothes as the temperatures in the early morning and evening can be chilly.
How Far is Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City?
The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat is approximately 350 km, passing through several provinces and winding mountain roads. Depending on the mode of transportation, weather conditions (whether it’s sunny or rainy), travel time during the day, and traffic on the road, the duration of the journey can vary. Generally, it takes about 7 hours by bus, 8-9 hours by motorcycle, and just 1 hour by plane to reach Dalat.
First route:
First, you start from the inner city of Ho Chi Minh City and go straight to Thu Thiem tunnel. From here, you move onto the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay highway. This highway section has a length of 55km, after going all the way you turn left and enter the national highway 14km and turn right through Highway 20.
Convenient Transportation Options from Saigon to Da Lat
Seat Buses
For convenient travel options to Da Lat, seat buses are a reliable choice. Currently, there are various types of buses ranging from 18 to 45 seats that offer comfort. Some notable bus operators providing seat buses include Thanh Buoi, Phuong Trang, and Xuan Hung.
Depending on the time of year, especially during holidays, ticket prices may vary. Below are some reference prices:
- Thanh Buoi Bus Operator:
- Departure Point: 266 – 268 Le Hong Phong, Ward 4, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Destination: 49 – 55 Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1, Da Lat City
- Ticket Price: 190,000 VND per ticket
- Minh Thu Bus Operator:
- Departure Point: 292 Dinh Bo Linh, Ward 26, Ho Chi Minh City
- Destination: 1 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Da Lat City
- Ticket Price: 150,000 VND per ticket
- Xuan Hung Bus Operator:
- Departure Point: 292 Dinh Bo Linh, Ward 26, Ho Chi Minh City
- Destination: 17 Ba Thang Tu Street, Ward 3, Da Lat City
- Ticket Price: 150,000 VND per ticket
- Thao Tam Bus Operator:
- Departure Point: 486 Le Hong Phong, Ward 1, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
- Destination: 224/19 Phan Dinh Phung, Da Lat City
- Ticket Price: 160,000 VND per ticket
Private Car Rental
Renting a private car to travel to Da Lat is extremely convenient. It allows you to have full control over your travel schedule and freely choose the attractions to visit in Da Lat. Moreover, you can take breaks and explore scenic spots along the way.
With the private car rental service from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat offered by VnCarRentals.com, you will enjoy a safe and comfortable journey. The service includes door-to-door pick-up, experienced drivers who have served international tourists for years, ensuring a pleasant trip. The pricing is transparent with no hidden costs.
Sleeper Buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat
Traveling to Da Lat by sleeper bus from Ho Chi Minh City is a popular choice due to its convenience, safety, and affordability. With approximately 100 daily trips, you can easily find a bus that fits your schedule.
Popular Bus Operators and Fares
- Thanh Buoi Bus
- Departure Times: Da Lat (22:00, 23:00, 00:00) – Ho Chi Minh City (08:15, 10:15, 22:15)
- Fare: 210,000 VND – 340,000 VND per ticket
- Phuong Trang Bus
- Departure Times: Up to 45 trips daily from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat, ensuring availability at any time.
- Fare: 220,000 VND – 250,000 VND per ticket
- 3S Limo Bus
- Departure Times: Ho Chi Minh City (07:00, 22:00) – Da Lat (14:00, 22:00)
- Fare: 399,000 VND per ticket
- Anh Tuyen Bus
- Departure Times: Ho Chi Minh City (05:00, 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 18:00, 21:00, 22:00)
- Fare: 170,000 VND per ticket
Tips for a Comfortable and Safe Journey
- Book Early: Secure your seat in advance, especially for preferred spots on the A tier (A4–A9), which offer a smoother ride and more storage space.
- Confirm Prices: To avoid overcharging, agree on the ticket price at the booking counter before boarding.
- Check Belongings: Always double-check your belongings to avoid leaving anything behind.
- Choose Reputable Operators: Stick to well-known and trustworthy companies for safety and quality service.
- Free Shuttle Services: Some operators offer complimentary transfers to your destination. Be aware to avoid extra charges.
Airplane
The flight time from Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) to Lien Khuong Airport (Da Lat) is approximately 50 minutes. This option saves significant travel time, allowing you to begin your journey to explore the romantic Da Lat almost immediately.
There are about 7 daily flights operated by major domestic airlines in Vietnam, including Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, and Jetstar. When traveling by plane, it’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least one hour early to line up and plan your schedule conveniently.
Important Note: Upon arriving at Lien Khuong Airport, you will need to take a bus or taxi to reach Da Lat city center.
Flight ticket prices: 900,000 VND – 1,500,000 VND per ticket (prices may increase significantly during peak seasons).
Motorbike
For adventure enthusiasts, the journey to the misty city of Da Lat on a motorbike is an experience not to be missed. The travel time is approximately 8–10 hours, making it a convenient and exciting option. The shortest route is from Ho Chi Minh City via National Highway Ho Chi Minh – Long Thanh (Dong Nai) – Lam Dong (following National Highway 10) – through Prenn Pass to reach Da Lat.
You can stop at Bao Loc Pass for a quick check-in and enjoy the breathtaking scenery before reaching Da Lat. Remember to maintain a safe speed, use headlights, wear warm clothing, and bring water for the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat
1. Can I travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat by train?
No, traveling by train directly from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat is not possible. Da Lat’s train stations are only used for tourism purposes. A popular route is the Da Lat – Trai Mat line, which operates five trips daily. If you wish to take a train from Ho Chi Minh City, you can stop at Thap Cham Station or Nha Trang Station, and then continue to Da Lat by bus or taxi.
2. Which bus operators travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat?
Among frequent travelers, Thanh Buoi and Phuong Trang are highly rated sleeper bus operators known for their quality service and comfort.
3. What is the most scenic route from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat?
The only route to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh City is via National Highway 20, making it both the most beautiful and shortest option for this journey.
4. How long does it take to fly to Da Lat?
A flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Lien Khuong Airport in Da Lat takes about 50 minutes. From the airport, you’ll need an additional 30 minutes by taxi to reach the city center.
Conclusion
Above, VnCarRentals’s has answered the question, “How to go to Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City.” We hope that this information helps you plan your trip to Dalat in detail and ensures a wonderful journey.
