S1 E45 | Exploring Da Lat – Temples, Night Markets, and French Colonial Charm

We arrived in Da Lat after an VND 600k overnight bus from Ho Chi Minh City, escaping the heat for its cool 16–17°C weather. Known as Vietnam’s “Eternal Spring,” this mountain town had long been a favorite getaway for both locals and the French during colonial times.

Our first day began with a scooter ride through the city. From quirky helmets to winding streets, Da Lat already felt different from the rest of Vietnam. We visited a local temple, where the chants reminded us of mantras back home in India, and the architecture stood out in warm shades of brown surrounded by lush greenery. The peaceful atmosphere made the visit memorable.

Later, we checked into our colorful hostel, complete with koi ponds and dorms that felt cozy and welcoming – all for just VND 77k per person, per night – about INR 250 or under USD 3!

By evening, we made our way to the lakefront and the bustling night market. Locals and tourists gathered here for music, food, and the festive vibe. We tried local street snacks—from banana bread with sesame seeds to roasted tapioca and raw mango cookies. Each bite was a delicious surprise.

Da Lat had a vibrant mix of history and everyday life. Once developed by the French as a hill-station resort town in the late 1800s, the city still carried that charm, now blended with modern Vietnamese energy.

We ended the day sharing a simple dinner and reflecting on how travel felt so rewarding—despite the uphill climbs that tested our knees! This episode of our journey captured the essence of why we loved Da Lat: calm temples, lively streets, tasty food, and a slice of history.