Truc Lam Pagoda
Nestled in Vietnam's Central Highlands, Dalat is a serene retreat amidst rugged landscapes and vibrant cultures. Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," its temperate climate and lush scenery offer respite from the tropical heat. From its French colonial architecture to its indigenous hill tribe communities, Dalat captivates with its blend of natural beauty and rich heritage, promising an unforgettable escape into Vietnam's highlands.
Truc Lam Pagoda Dalat
Overview
- Location: Phung Hoang Mountain, Ward 3, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening Hours: 07:00 - 17:00 daily
- Entrance Fee: Free
Truc Lam Pagoda in Dalat is part of a network of Truc Lam Pagodas across Vietnam. Built in 1993 and completed in 1994, it serves as a serene retreat amidst Dalat's scenic landscapes. Within the Truc Lam Yen Tu tradition, the pagoda embodies the teachings of mindfulness and tranquility, offering visitors a peaceful sanctuary for meditation and contemplation. Surrounded by Dalat's natural beauty, it provides an opportunity to experience Vietnamese Buddhism while acknowledging its affiliation with other Truc Lam Pagodas across the country.
The Ground Of Truc Lam Pagoda
Things To See And Do When Visiting
Get on the cable car
The cable car ride to Truc Lam Pagoda from Dalat's Robin Hill offers a scenic journey with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As you ascend above the lush hills and Tuyen Lam Lake, the tranquil ride provides a serene experience, allowing visitors to relax and appreciate the picturesque scenery below.
Immerse In The Beauty Of Robin Hill
- Location: Robin Hill, Ward 3, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening Hours: 07:30 - 11:30; 13:00 - 17:00 daily
- Price: Round trip ticket price: VND 100,000 (US $3.93); One-way ticket price: VND 80,000 (US $3.14)
Explore the pagoda
Truc Lam Pagoda in Dalat is distinguished by its traditional architecture seamlessly blending with the surrounding nature; situated atop a hill, adorned with elegant rosewood structures amidst verdant landscapes of flower and strawberry fields, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore enchanting gardens, revel in the diversity of flora, and embrace the serene ambiance, evoking a sense of immersion in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
Dive Into The Serenity Of Truc Lam Pagoda
Participate in meditation
Truc Lam Pagoda in Dalat offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, serving as a haven where visitors can engage in calming meditation sessions guided by instructors to find relaxation and clear thinking, while also providing an enriching opportunity to delve deeper into Buddhist teachings and explore various meditation techniques in greater detail.
Embrace Mindfulness Through Meditation
Enjoy the scenic view of Tuyen Lam Lake
Embarking on the descent from Truc Lam Pagoda to Tuyen Lam Lake, visitors will be greeted by a scenic route featuring a winding path lined with majestic pine trees and punctuated by 140 stone steps, providing a leisurely and immersive journey through the verdant landscape, where each step unveils a captivating panorama of tranquil waters mirroring the lush hills.
Stunning View Of Tuyen Lam Lake
How To Get There
By Public Bus
The most convenient and budget-friendly mode of public transportation in Da Lat is the city bus, which offers routes connecting various villages within the city. With operating hours from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, it provides ample flexibility for travelers. The fare for a one-way journey typically ranges from VND 10,000 to VND 20,000 (around US $0.4 - US $0.8), making it an affordable option for exploring the city.
By Taxi
Another convenient transportation choice is taxis, where it's advisable to inquire about the fare before boarding to gauge the trip's cost. Typically, expect to spend approximately US $1.4 to US $4 for a one-way ride, though prices may vary depending on the distance covered and traffic conditions.
By Motorcycle Taxi
Motorcycle taxi is a popular transportation service offering flexible rides without being affiliated with any specific company, allowing passengers to negotiate fares for the best deal. These motorcycle taxis are readily available, particularly in bustling public areas and tourist spots. Pricing typically starts at VND 20,000 (about US $0.8) for short distances, with fares subject to increase based on the length of the journey.
Visit Nearby Attractions
Bao Dai Summer Palace
- Location: No.1 Trieu Viet Vuong Street, Ward 4, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening Hours: 07:00 - 17:30 daily
- Entrance Fee: VND 30,000 (~US $1.18)
The Bao Dai Summer Palace, former retreat of Vietnam's last emperor Bao Dai (1926-1945), blends French colonial and Vietnamese architecture amid lush landscapes. Built from 1933 to 1938, now a museum, it showcases royal life with preserved artifacts and scenic charm, drawing tourists to explore its history and beauty.
Bao Dai Summer Palace
Domaine De Marie Cathedral
- Location: No.1 Ngo Quyen Street, Ward 6, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening Hours: 07:30 - 11:30; 13:30 - 17:30 daily
- Entrance Fee: Free
Domaine de Marie, affectionately called the Pink Church, is a serene Catholic sanctuary nestled in Dalat, Vietnam, where its charming pink facade and graceful architecture offer both spiritual solace for worshippers and aesthetic delight for visitors exploring the city's tranquil landscapes, serving as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
Domaine De Marie Cathedral
Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)
- Location: No.3 Huynh Thuc Khang Road, Ward 4, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening Hours: 08:30 - 18:00 daily
- Entrance Fee: VND 80,000 (~US $3.14)
The Crazy House, alternatively named Hang Nga Guesthouse, is an enthralling architectural marvel crafted by a Vietnamese designer to conjure a whimsical, fairytale-like ambiance, with its unconventional design elements, such as twisting staircases and themed chambers, drawing curious visitors keen on its unique synthesis of artistic expression and natural surroundings.
Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse)
Local Tips When Exploring
- Within Truc Lam Pagoda, visitors must adhere to strict regulations prohibiting any form of trading or congregation on the premises.
- Visitors must dress modestly, with shorts, short skirts, and revealing attire is not advisable.
- Upon entering the main hall for worship or paying homage to Buddha, all visitors have to leave their footwear outside. Additionally, photography is not allowed inside the main hall. Access to certain areas, such as those designated for monks and nuns, is prohibited to visitors.