DRIVE TO DALAT: WHEN THE JOURNEY IS MORE THAN THE DESTINATION
With Lien Khuong Airport scheduled to close for approximately six months from March 4, 2026, for runway and infrastructure upgrades, convenient overland routes have become a key topic of interest for travelers passionate about visiting Dalat.
Traveling to Dalat by road is far more than a simple transfer; it is a complete travel experience in itself. Along the way, visitors witness the remarkable transformation of landscapes – from lowland plains and coastal stretches to the majestic slopes of the highlands. Join Ana Mandara Villas Dalat in exploring the most accessible and emotionally captivating routes to the City of Eternal Spring.
Route from Ho Chi Minh City – A Familiar and Convenient Journey
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey typically takes 6–7 hours, gradually guiding travelers away from the vibrant urban rhythm into the cool, rolling hills of the Lam Vien Plateau.
One of the highlights of this route is National Highway 20, featuring the iconic Bao Loc Pass – a long, winding mountain pass that offers both challenge and exhilaration. Endless tea plantations line the road, often veiled in early morning mist, creating a poetic highland panorama.
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Alternatively, travelers may opt for the expressway network: Long Thanh – Dau Giay, connecting to Dau Giay – Phan Thiet, continuing to Phan Thiet – Vinh Hao, before ascending via Gia Bac Pass through Di Linh and onward to Dalat. This option reduces travel time and appeals to those who appreciate the comfort and dynamism of modern highways.
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Route from Nha Trang – A Spectacular Coastal and Mountain Passage
For travelers departing from Nha Trang, the journey offers one of the most scenic routes in Central Vietnam and the Central Highlands. The dramatic transition from turquoise coastline to towering mountains creates an unforgettable visual experience.
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The highlight of this route is Ngoan Muc Pass, renowned as one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking mountain passes. From its heights, visitors can admire sweeping views of coastal plains and layered mountain ranges. The gently winding road through untouched nature makes this journey particularly memorable for explorers and photography enthusiasts.
As the ascent continues, the air grows cooler and pine forests become increasingly dense, heralding the tranquil atmosphere that defines Dalat.
Route from Phan Rang – Thap Cham – A Short Yet Enriching Experience
The route from Phan Rang – Thap Cham is favored for its moderate distance and diverse scenery. From the sun-drenched landscapes of Ninh Thuan, travelers gradually enter the lush greenery of the Central Highlands.
This journey also traverses Ngoan Muc Pass, where winding roads embrace the mountainside. Scenic stops along the way reveal wind farms, expansive valleys, and striking shifts in elevation and climate.
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It is an ideal choice for those seeking to experience multiple geographical landscapes within a single journey.
Route from Buon Ma Thuot – Discovering the Untouched Central Highlands
For travelers departing from Buon Ma Thuot and other Central Highlands provinces, the journey to Dalat offers a distinctive perspective. The route passes fertile basalt plateaus, primary forests, and villages rich in indigenous cultural heritage.
Though less dramatic in terrain, this road captivates with its serenity and raw beauty. Coffee plantations, rubber forests, and verdant valleys create a sense of calm – perfect for a restorative retreat combined with nature exploration.
The Final Stretch – Gateway to the Dreamy City
Regardless of the chosen direction, travelers will pass through Prenn Pass, one of the main gateways into the city center. Recently redeveloped, the pass features gentle curves framed by Dalat’s signature pine forests.
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Unlike more challenging mountain passes, Prenn Pass offers a soothing arrival – a graceful prelude to the romantic ambiance of the highland city. As you descend through cool air and delicate mist, Dalat reveals itself in refreshing clarity ahead.
Practical Tips for Traveling to Dalat by Road
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, travelers should thoroughly inspect their vehicles, particularly brakes and tires, before navigating mountain passes. Early morning or daytime departures are recommended to maintain optimal visibility and avoid dense evening fog.
Taking time to pause at scenic viewpoints along the way is highly encouraged. Roadside cafés and mountain stops often provide breathtaking perspectives and enriching experiences.
When the Journey Becomes the Destination
Each overland route to Dalat possesses its own character – winding passes, endless pine forests, and the crisp highland climate. The journey not only leads to a renowned resort destination but also offers an immersive experience of nature’s gradual transformation with every kilometer traveled.
These remarkable roads contribute to Dalat’s enduring allure – a place where the journey itself can be as beautiful and memorable as the destination.