From Nha Trang: Day Trip to Dalat with Datanla Waterfall

From Nha Trang: Day Trip to Dalat with Datanla Waterfall

This full-day adventure from Nha Trang for $80 per person is a fantastic way to see some of Vietnam’s most charming sights in Dalat, a city famed for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and historic architecture. The tour lasts around 10 hours, making it an efficient option for travelers looking to maximize their time and see top highlights. Your journey includes visits to Datanla Waterfall, Truc Lam Zen Meditation Center, Dalat Railway Station, and Linh Phuoc Pagoda—each offering a different facet of Dalat’s natural beauty and cultural depth.

Two things we love about this trip are the variety of sights packed into one day, from stunning waterfalls to tranquil temples, and the knowledgeable guides who make history and culture come alive with interesting stories. The second highlight is the adrenaline rush at Datanla Waterfall’s alpine coaster, which adds a fun, unforgettable element to the experience.

A potential consideration is that some activities, like the alpine coaster and cable car, cost extra and require cash, so travelers should budget accordingly. Also, given the full schedule, this trip is best suited for those comfortable with a busy day of sightseeing rather than a leisurely afternoon. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Dalat’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual transfers or tickets.

This tour appeals especially to travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, cultural sites, and engaging guides. If you’re keen to see Dalat’s key attractions with a small group—limited to 6 participants—you’ll find this trip offers good value, comfort, and the chance to learn from local expertise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned van makes for a relaxing ride between destinations.
• Variety of Sights: From waterfalls to temples, offering a well-rounded experience of Dalat.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed stories.
• Extra Activities & Costs: Some attractions, like the Alpine coaster and cable car, cost additional cash.
• Timing & Flexibility: Finish around 3 pm, with options to stay longer or return to Nha Trang.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, creating a more intimate and personalized tour experience.

Exploring the Dalat Day Trip in Detail

The Pickup and Journey from Nha Trang

The adventure begins early with a hotel pickup in Nha Trang. The three-hour drive offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery as you head into the hills of Dalat. The route is scenic—mountains, forests, and glimpses of rural life—and sets the tone for a day immersed in natural beauty.

Datanla Waterfall and the Alpine Coaster

Your first stop is Datanla Waterfall, the most popular waterfall in Dalat. Here, the cool mist and roaring water provide an immediate sense of nature’s power. What makes Datanla stand out is the adrenaline-pumping alpine coaster, Vietnam’s longest. For around 250,000 VND, you can take a return ride that twists and turns through the hillside, offering both fun and spectacular views of the surrounding forests.

Reviews rave about this part of the trip—one traveler called it “so much fun,” while others appreciated the chance to capture great photos. The waterfall itself is quite scenic, with clear pools and lush greenery, perfect for a quick walk and some memorable shots.

More Great Tours Nearby

Truc Lam Zen Meditation Center and Tuyen Lam Lake

Next, your guide takes you to the Truc Lam Zen Meditation Center, a peaceful retreat built between 1993 and 1994. The architecture is distinctly Asian, with ornate roofs and peaceful gardens. Here, you can appreciate the calming atmosphere and learn a bit about Buddhist practices, as the site was founded by revered monk Thich Thanh Tu.

Following that, the tour includes a scenic stop at Tuyen Lam Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Dalat. Surrounded by pine forests, the tranquil water is a favorite spot for photos and moments of quiet reflection. We loved how the lush greenery contrasts with the serene water, giving you that quintessential Dalat vibe—cool, green, and peaceful.

Dalat Railway Station: A French Architectural Gem

Midday, you’ll visit the Dalat Railway Station, a historic site designed by French architects in 1932. This station’s architecture is striking, with its art deco style and distinctive roof that resembles a bird taking flight. As one reviewer noted, it’s “a notable architectural landmark,” and history buffs will appreciate its role on the Da Lat-Thap Cham Railway line.

The station is not only pretty to look at but also a reminder of Dalat’s colonial past, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in Vietnam’s layered history.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda: The Dragon Temple

The last major stop is Linh Phuoc Pagoda, also called the Ve Chai Temple. It’s famous for its 49-meter-long dragon sculpture, constructed from 12,000 bottles, giving it a unique, colorful appearance. The main hall features intricate mosaics made from cobblestones, and the entire temple exudes a sense of craftsmanship and spiritual vibrancy.

Visitors often find Linh Phuoc’s blend of artistry and spirituality captivating—one traveler described it as “awe-inspiring” and “beautiful in every detail.” It’s a great place for photos and to soak up some of Dalat’s religious heritage.

Optional Extras and Practical Tips

The tour includes the entry fees for most sites, but note that activities like the cable car (100,000 VND) and return alpine coaster ride are extra and paid on-site. Carrying cash for these costs is recommended to avoid inconvenience.

The Return Journey

After the temple visit, the group heads back to Nha Trang, arriving around 3 pm. This leaves you the option to stay in Dalat or return to your hotel in Nha Trang, depending on your plans. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the guides are praised for their friendly, informative approach.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This day trip is best suited for travelers who want a compact, well-organized overview of Dalat’s top attractions. If you enjoy scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and engaging guides, this tour offers a satisfying mix. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences—like the chance to ride the alpine coaster or visit a temple built from bottles—that add a bit of adventure and charm to your trip.

It’s not perfect for those with medical issues or pregnant travelers, as some activities aren’t recommended for them. But for most, it offers a balanced, enjoyable day that packs in a lot of sights without the stress of planning.

Practical Details

• Price: $80 per person, which includes transportation, guide, water, and most site entries.
• Duration: About 10 hours, with pick-up times depending on availability.
• Small group: Limited to 6 participants, making for a more intimate experience.
• Extras: Cable car and alpine coaster rides cost extra—budget around 100,000 VND for the cable car and 250,000 VND for the coaster.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, camera, water.
• Not recommended for: Pregnant travelers, people with back problems, or those with serious medical conditions.

FAQs

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $80 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, bottled water, and most entry fees.

How long is the trip?
It lasts about 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning by around 3 pm.

Are there extra costs?
Yes, activities like the cable car (100,000 VND) and alpine coaster ride (250,000 VND) are additional and paid on-site.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a small group experience limited to 6 travelers, fostering a more personal atmosphere.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation, guide, bottled water, parking/toll fees, and entry to Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Truc Lam Temple, Tuyen Lam Lake, and Dalat Railway Station.

Can I stay longer in Dalat?
Yes, the tour ends around 3 pm, so you can choose to stay in Dalat or head back to Nha Trang.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children can enjoy the scenery and sites, activities like the alpine coaster require careful supervision with young kids.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring warm clothing, a camera, and water. Weather can be variable, so layers are wise.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Nha Trang to Dalat delivers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and fun activities—all within a manageable scope. The small group size, friendly guides, and thoughtfully selected stops make it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to get a taste of Dalat’s charm without overcommitting. Whether you’re snapping photos of waterfalls, admiring colonial architecture, or soaking in tranquil temples, this tour offers authentic moments that enhance your Vietnam experience.

If you’re seeking an active, engaging way to explore Dalat’s highlights, appreciate local craftsmanship, and enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, this trip checks all those boxes. Just remember to bring extra cash for optional activities and prepare for a full, rewarding day of discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: