Xuan Huong Lake is nestled in the heart of Da Lat and is a beautiful spot that has charmed residents and tourists. With its green fields and peaceful walking paths, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy quiet moments.
Introduction To Xuan Huong Lake
A popular destination for both locals and tourists, Xuan Huong Lake is situated in the center of Da Lat and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The lake, which has a crescent moon shape and is roughly 5 kilometers in circumference, is surrounded by pine forests, flower gardens, and tasteful villas from the French era. It is fed by the Cam Ly stream. Its placid surface frequently reflects the sky, producing an idyllic vista that has come to represent Da Lat’s allure.
The accessibility and timeless beauty of Xuan Huong Lake are what make it particularly worthwhile to visit. The ambiance is revitalizing and romantic, whether you’re strolling along the shore, renting a swan boat to glide across the water, or just enjoying coffee at a lakeside café. The lake is not only a beautiful landmark but also the bustling center of the city since it is a well-liked meeting place for festivals and cultural events.
History Of Xuan Huong Lake
Xuan Huong Lake was once a valley that the Cam Ly stream traversed. Engineer Labbé constructed the lake’s first dam in 1919 at the request of French delegate Cunhac. Two smaller lakes were created by the addition of a second dam in 1923, but a significant storm in 1932 destroyed both.
Near the home of local administrator Pham Khac Hoe, a sizable stone dam was designed and reconstructed between 1934 and 1935 by Vietnamese engineer Tran Dang Khoa. It was lovingly referred to as Mr. Dao’s Bridge by the locals. To honor the well-known Vietnamese poetess Ho Xuan Huong, the lake was formally renamed Xuan Huong Lake in 1953.
Top 4 Iconic Attractions In Xuan Huong Lake
Xuan Huong Lake is more than simply a tranquil waterbody. While you walk around the crescent-shaped lake, you will encounter many attractions, each showcasing a unique element of this highland city. Here are some of the most popular places that you should not miss.
Lam Vien Square
Lam Vien Square is right on the lake, and it is one of the most recognized spots in Da Lat. The square has a large glass structure in the shape of a wild sunflower, and another glass structure in the shape of an artichoke flower bud, both important symbols of the city. This is an excellent location to take a stroll, catch a glimpse of the locals while delighting in a local atmosphere, and experience all that Da Lat has to offer.
Dalat Flower Garden
The well-known Dalat Flower Garden – a short walk from the lake – is referred to as the “Kingdom of Flowers”; with thousands of blooming flowers, including roses, orchids, hydrangeas, and lilies, you will want to snap photos of your favorite flowers. It’s a lovely location for those who love to take photos or enjoy the beauty of nature. The serenity of the garden makes it a great stop after your walk along Xuan Huong Lake.
Yersin Park
Yersin Park, named in honor of Alexandre Yersin, the French physician who devoted his career to working in Vietnam, is located on the shore of Xuan Huong Lake. Yersin Park is an ideal rest area and green space to enjoy fresh air and views of the lake. The park has large grassy fields, towering pine trees, and pathways along the lake, making it a wonderful venue for morning runs, family picnics, or simply hanging out in the shade.
Cu Hill (Doi Cu)
Cu Hill is another familiar attraction located near Xuan Huong Lake. The hill features a lovely golf course, said to be one of the oldest and most beautiful in the country. From the hill, there is a great view of the lake and all the lush greenery around the city. Cu Hill is particularly lovely at sunset and sunrise, when the golden light shines down to create a magical place in the reflection of the lake.
7 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
When you come to Xuan Huong Lake, you are not only enjoying its peaceful beauty, but also the many activities it has to offer that bring you closer to the center of Da Lat. From exhilarating rides to leisurely walks, here are some of the things you should do while spending time at the lake.
Paddle A Swan Boat On Xuan Huong Lake
If you’re after something fun and a special way to experience the lake, rent a paddle boat in the shape of a swan. The boats are rented at the boat pier near Dinh Tien Hoang and Tran Quoc Toan streets, for a cost of approximately 30,000 VND per hour.
The ride is a slow paddle across the lake, where you can experience the ripples of the water glimmering in the sunlight surrounding the lake. This is an enjoyable activity for couples and about family fun, or overall, if you are a solo traveler looking for a peaceful getaway.
Organize A Lakeside Picnic With Friends Or Family
Along Xuan Huong Lake are large patches of grass that are great for a lovely picnic. Picture yourself spreading a mat, taking out some freshly made snacks or special purchases, and relaxing by the lake with the people you care about. The mild wind and nice surroundings are natural conditions for a relaxing afternoon.
Take A Scenic Ride By Horse Carriage Or Tandem Bike
There is nothing like spending time at Xuan Huong Lake, and certainly, riding on a horse-drawn carriage or renting a tandem bike are charming ways to get a different experience of the lake. A horse carriage ride has a nostalgic feel, allowing you to sit still and watch Da Lat’s picturesque beauty, from the lakeside to the flower garden next to the lake.
Riding a tandem bike with a friend or partner allows you the experience of watching nature and people along the lakeside paths while truly engaging in the fresh air under the straggly green pines. You will have different memories that will be worth basking in.
Save Romantic Moments With Coffee
A warm cup of coffee while you sit by Xuan Huong Lake is part of your Da Lat experience. Whether it is in the foggy early morning or serene evening, steaming cups of hot milk coffee or cocoa contribute to the calming effect for which Da Lat is known. The cold weather, the sound of the rustling pine trees, and the waves lapping along the banks of the lake are a unique combination contributing to memorable encounters and photos.
Taste Local Street Food By The Lake At Night
As night comes, the area surrounding Xuan Huong Lake becomes a street food heaven. With the chilly air and mist making hot dishes like grilled corn, baked rice paper (Vietnamese pizza), roasted sweet potatoes, or a cup of steamed soy milk even more appetizing and satisfying, a walk along the lakeside will reveal ample street vendors feeding you the comfort of local traditional street food to warm your body and spirit.
Sip Coffee At Famous Lakeside Cafés
The lake is also where you’ll find some of Da Lat’s most popular cafés, such as Thuy Ta, Bich Cau, and Thanh Thuy. Each café offers a romantic atmosphere along with the wonderful views of the lake itself, especially in the evening when there are lights reflecting off the water. Sitting by the window will give you the full experience of the city’s poetic vibe with a warm beverage.
Join Street Music Performances By The Lake
During some evenings, Xuan Huong Lake hosts spontaneous street music sessions. Local performers and visitors will convene together to sing, play guitar, or share musical performances under the stars. These outdoor events create a community and invite anyone to be part. Whether you choose to participate by singing along, clapping along, or just enjoying the music, it’s a nice way to cap off your evening at the lake.
Entrance Fee
Xuan Huong Lake is free to visit, as it is a public area located in the center of Da Lat. There are no tickets required to walk, sit, or bike around the lake.
Best Time To Visit Xuan Huong Lake
Da Lat is beautiful all year round, and each season has its own beauty, which is why there is never a bad time to visit Xuan Huong Lake. If you want to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, plan to visit between February and April, when the lake will be surrounded by pink petals.
Around March, you will also see the purple flamboyant flowers appearing on the streets for added romance. During the summer months, you will also get to enjoy the typical weather of Da Lat, which can include sudden thunderstorms that seem to happen out of nowhere, but pass quickly, leaving everything fresh and cooling the air. From October through December, visitors can catch the lake in its most charming heavy mist, while the mimosa flowers blanket the hillsides in a fairytale-like scene.
How To Get To Xuan Huong Lake
Xuan Huong Lake, located conveniently and easily right in the center of Da Lat, you can find it accessible from virtually anywhere at your lodging. If you are going from Da Lat Market, it only takes a few minutes to walk along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, cross Ong Dao Bridge, and see the lake that is calm and poetic.
If you are staying a little farther from the city center, do not worry, you can rent a motorbike or take a ride-hailing car to the location for only 20,000-40,000 VND each trip. For something a little slower, you may also consider taking a tandem bicycle or an electric car to take in the scenery at a slower pace, especially if you want to experience a romantic sunset.
Things To Know Before Traveling To Xuan Huong Lake
Xuan Huong Lake is an open public area, so please respect the environment and keep the area clean while visiting. Also, there are lots of small vendors and street stalls in the lake area, so it’s wise to make careful choices not to pay too much or get taken advantage of.
- Please keep the lake area clean and throw any waste in proper places in the environment.
- If you buy food or drinks from the street vendors, always ask for the price beforehand and keep your guard up so as not to be overcharged.
- If you want to see the lake at night, please visit there in a group and not by yourself because parts of the lake area may be quiet and unsafe.
- During the Lunar New Year, Xuan Huong Lake has one of the best spots to see the colorful fireworks over the city.
- Da Lat Market, the Chicken Church (St. Nicholas Cathedral), Lam Vien Square, and the City Flower Garden are nearby attractions to combine parts of your sightseeing trip.
Final Thoughts: Is Xuan Huong Lake Worth Visiting?
To experience the essence of Da Lat and the beauty of its tranquil lake waters and poetic vistas, Xuan Huong Lake truly offers something for everyone, whether you want to take a relaxing walk, take someone special for a boat ride, or simply enjoy the cool mountain setting. For those traveling to Da Lat, it’s worth stopping by the world-famous Xuan Huong Lake with Seni World, your reliable travel friend for unforgettable trips.
