BlogA must-see on any Dalat trip itinerary is Xuan Huong Lake. This lake has developed into a must-visit destination for those to Dalat thanks to its tasteful blend of breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities, and mouthwatering cuisine. Continue reading if you’re still unsure about what to do and see in Xuan Huong Lake.
Overview of Xuan Huong Lake Dalat
- Location: Ward 1, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Total area: 5 square kilometers
Xuan Huong Lake Dalat
Xuan Huong Lake is 32 hectares in size and 1.5 meters deep on average. It is regarded as the center of Dalat and is situated 1,478 meters above sea level.
One of the unique lakes in Vietnam is Xuan Huong Lake because of its unique history. Where Xuan Huong Lake is now, there used to be another lake. Two dams were built on a Cam Ly River branch in 1919 and 1923 to produce two tiny lakes. Regretfully, both dams were demolished in 1932 during a strong storm. To form a single, sizable lake, a bigger dam consisting of boulders was constructed between 1934 and 1935 beneath the locations of the two earlier dams. The lake was known by the French as Grand Lac (big lake) at that time, but in 1953 the people renamed it Xuan Huong Lake in honor of the well-known Vietnamese female poet of the same name who lived in the 19th century. The lake has undergone multiple constructions. It would occasionally run out of water, which would be quite unfortunate if you were to arrive in the city at that time.
Best things to do at Xuan Huong Lake
Best things to do at Xuan Huong Lake
Savor the magnificent splendor of the natural world.
There is nothing like the tranquil, romantic beauty of Xuan Huong Lake. Here, you may take in the expansive surroundings and wonder at the emerald green lakes that glisten. A beautiful and wonderful atmosphere is created over the lake when the sun sets and casts its golden beams.
Take a lake paddle boat ride with a swan
Taking a swan paddle boat ride
One of the best parts of visiting Xuan Huong Lake in Dalat, Vietnam, is taking a swan paddle boat ride. It’s a genuinely amazing sensation to glide across the water on a boat, as you can lose yourself in the natural world and let your spirit flow with the water.
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Ride a tandem bicycle
Riding a tandem bicycle is a simple yet beneficial activity that allows you to both exercise and leisurely stroll around one of the most beautiful lakes in Dalat. It costs only 20,000 VND per hour per bicycle for two people. So, ride with your loved ones around Xuan Huong Lake to admire the sunset in Dalat.
Have a picnic
A picnic with your family and friends at Xuan Huong Lake
You should think about taking your family and friends to Xuan Huong Lake for a fun picnic on nice days, especially in the summer. In this gorgeous environment, you can make treasured moments with a selection of simple foods.
Tourist attractions nearby
Some of the tourism destinations near Xuan Huong Lake are listed below:
Dalat flower park
Dalat Flower Park
A well-known attraction for those who enjoy the outdoors, especially those who have a strong affinity for flowers, is Dalat Flower Park. This park, which is tucked away at the end of Xuan Huong Lake, is well-known for its colorful and varied assortment of flowers that come from all over the world. A stunning display of flowers in full bloom greets visitors to the park, which also provides a calm and attractive environment ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, or just taking in the peaceful beauty of nature.
Dalat Flower Park, with its exquisitely chosen floral arrangements and breathtaking scenery, is a tribute to the city’s moniker as the “City of Eternal Spring.” It’s a must-see when visiting Dalat, perfect for anyone with a passion for gardening or anyone looking for a tranquil getaway.
Thuy Ta Restaurant & Coffee
On the shores of Xuan Huong Lake in Da Lat, Thuy Ta Restaurant & Cafe – originally named “La Grenouillère” by the French – is a historic jewel. With a broad veranda extending over the lake and a serene, romantic ambiance, this quaint property is well-known for its stunning setting. Later, the establishment’s name was changed to “Thuy Ta,” and ever since, both residents and visitors have come to love it.
This restaurant and cafe provides a lovely atmosphere in which visitors may have a meal or a cup of coffee while admiring the stunning views of the lake and surroundings. With its roomy outdoor seating sections, the design creates a cozy and tranquil atmosphere. Thuy Ta provides the ideal ambiance, whether you want to spend a special evening with a loved one or just enjoy a quiet moment by yourself. This location ought to be on your list of things to do in Dalat, whether you are a visitor or a local.
Lam Vien Square Dalat
Lam Vien Square near Xuan Huong Lake
Across from Xuan Huong Lake, Lam Vien Square is one of Da Lat’s most recognizable landmarks. Upon arrival, two enormous sculptures that represent agriculture and the land’s natural beauty – a sunflower and an artichoke bud – grab tourists’ attention right away. The placement of these distinctive pieces in the middle of the square makes for a lovely backdrop for pictures and a great gathering spot for guests.
When locals and visitors start to arrive in the evening, Lam Vien Square comes alive. This is a great place to gather with friends, snap mementos, and eat some of Da Lat’s most well-known street cuisine. Following your exploration of the square, you may continue your adventure to Yersin Park, which is located next to it. Here, you can take advantage of the cool green area and snap picturesque moments with Xuan Huong Lake and the surrounding scenery.
Dalat Market
Da Lat Market
Da Lat Market is one of the destinations not to be missed when visiting the city of thousands of flowers. This place is not only a bustling shopping center but also an ideal place for you to find everything you need for your trip or choose gifts for relatives and friends. From clothes, souvenirs to Da Lat specialties, you can easily find anything you need.
Not only does it have a variety of goods, Da Lat Market also has a strong local culture with a bustling, friendly atmosphere. This is also where you can experience rich street food, with typical Da Lat dishes such as grilled rice paper, soy milk, and many other delicious dishes.
Con Ga Church (Dalat Rooster Church/ Dalat Diocese Cathedral)
Con Ga Church, sometimes referred to as Dalat Cathedral or Dalat Diocesan Church, is one of Dalat City’s oldest and most notable architectural structures. This church, which was constructed during the French colonial era, features exquisite stained glass windows and a unique Gothic architectural style with delicate lines. The most noticeable emblem is the statue of a rooster atop the bell tower, which in Catholicism represents vigilance and wakefulness. It is also the reason this location is known by the locals as “Con Ga Church.”
The church’s remarkable architecture and lengthy history make it both a significant religious landmark and a popular tourist attraction. You can get an aerial view of Dalat city from the top of the bell tower. If you’re visiting Dalat, this is the perfect place to learn about the local way of life and snap lovely pictures as a keepsake.
Linh Son Pagoda
Linh Son Pagoda
One of Dalat’s most well-known and historic temples, Linh Son Pagoda features typical East Asian architecture. Perched atop a serene, open-air hill, the pagoda is a popular hangout for tourists looking for peace and quiet as well as a site of worship and spiritual practice for Buddhists. Visitors can relax and find inner peace at Linh Son Pagoda thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surrounds.
The bronze Buddha statue, which is one of the pagoda’s most notable characteristics. It is 1,250 kg in weight and stands 1.7 meters tall, drawing tourists’ attention as soon as they approach the premises. Beyond its spiritual significance, the pagoda’s lush gardens, towering trees, and clean air make it the ideal place to take in the beauty of nature. A must-see location in Dalat is Linh Son Pagoda, which provides a peaceful experience and a stronger bond with Buddhist principles.
What to eat when visiting Xuan Huong Lake?
There is a wide selection of mouthwatering street food alternatives that perfectly capture the character of the local cuisine when you visit Xuan Huong Lake in Dalat. These foods are a must-try:
Banh Trang Nuong
- Bánh tráng nướng (grilled rice paper): Often referred to as the “Vietnamese pizza,” Grilled Rice Paper is a crispy snack topped with egg, dried shrimp, green onions, and a drizzle of chili sauce. Enjoying this snack while strolling around the lake is ideal.
- Bánh Căn (Can Cake): Served with a dipping sauce consisting of fish sauce, meat, and fresh herbs, these little round rice flour cakes are a popular appetizer. They’re a delicious bite-sized treat that have a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
- Bánh mì chảo (baguette with combo pan): This dish is a crispy baguette topped with a savory sauce and served with a sizzling pan full of eggs, sausage, and pâté, among other items. Enjoy this filling and substantial supper by the lake.
Banh xeo
- Bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancake): A tasty crepe stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, prepared with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. It comes with lettuce and herbs for dipping in fish sauce and wrapping, making for a crispy and tasty experience.
- Nước mía (sugarcane juice): A crisp beverage made with freshly squeezed sugarcane that is frequently topped with a kumquat squeeze for a zesty touch. It’s the ideal way to quench your thirst while touring Xuan Huong Lake.
- Chè (Vietnamese sweet soup): Chè, a well-liked delicacy, is made with a variety of ingredients, including fruit, beans, jelly, and coconut milk. It’s a refreshing, sweet delicacy that brings your culinary adventure to a lovely close.
- Sữa đậu nành (soy milk): In Dalat’s cool climate, soy milk is typically consumed warm or cold. It’s frequently served as a straightforward but satisfying snack with bánh tiêu (fried flatbread) on the side.
Banh uot long ga Dalat
- Banh uot long ga: A specialty of Da Lat, is not just a dish of banh uot with chicken giblets but is actually a combination of pork giblets and shredded chicken mixed with salad. Da Lat, where banh uot long ga was born, has become a famous place for this specialty.
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If you want to experience Dalat’s beauty on a deeper level, Sinhcafe is the ideal trip companion. We provide custom trips and experiences that let you discover Xuan Huong Lake’s and other hidden beauties. Sinhcafe is here to make your visit unique, whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just in search of a quiet get-away. Join us as we explore Dalat, and allow the allure of Xuan Huong Lake to enrich your voyage!
