Fast Facts:

Population: approximately 200,000
Elevation: 1,500m
Also known as the "City of Thousands of Pine Trees"

Highlights:

Cooler climate, trekking, adventure tours, flower markets.

Dalat Travel Vignette:

Take a deep breath, then another, and another; because one will simply not do. Reenergized with the temperate climate, the mountains of Dalat have brought us back to life after our long journey South. My husband the ‘adventurous botanist’ cannot keep himself out of the flower markets, and myself, the ‘casual shopaholic’ can’t wait to get into the mountains for more fresh air and a little exercise. 

Description:

Dalat is located in Lam Dong province, approximately 200 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. At an elevation of 1,500 m, Dalat bears the look of an Old French city. It was founded in 1897 when Doctor Alexandre Yersin recommended that the area be developed as a resort town.
Dalat has many natural and artificial lakes such as Ho Xuan Huong, Than Tho, Da Thien, and Tuyen Lam bordered by lines of pine trees, which are a well-known feature of Dalat Vietnam.
A trip to Dalat is not complete until one goes to the Dalat Flower Gardens. The temperate climate of Dalat is suitable for flowers such as orchids, roses, lilies, and camellias.
Nowadays, tourists not only limit themselves to Dalat; they also visit the area of Langbian Highland and the ethnic minorities. Langbian Mountain’s highest peak at 2,165 m is very tempting for climbers. From Lom Bieng Klo peak, one can see endless green mountains reflecting the silver rays of the sun. Many adventure tours are organized in the area, including parachuting, canyoning, and climbing.