Introduce
Dalat, nestled in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, is a charming city known for its temperate climate, French colonial architecture, and picturesque natural attractions. Often called the “City of Eternal Spring,” Dalat serves as a refreshing retreat from the tropical heat of the lowlands and a gateway to the wider Central Highlands region.
This elevated plateau, stretching along the borders of southern Laos and northeastern Cambodia, offers a distinct contrast to the lush, humid south. Here, the air is crisp and dry, the skies bright blue, and the landscape unfolds in rolling hills, pine forests, and expansive farmlands.
The Central Highlands is also rich in cultural diversity, home to several indigenous ethnic groups. The four major tribes in the region are the Bahnar, Jarai, Ede (also known as Rhade), and Koho — each with its own traditions, dialects, and ways of life. Their languages trace back to the Malayo-Polynesian and Mon-Khmer language families, adding to the area’s deep historical and linguistic roots.
From Dalat, travelers can venture to nearby destinations like Buon Ma Thuot, Kon Tum, Pleiku, and the serene Lak Lake. Kon Tum Province uniquely shares borders with both Laos and Cambodia, while Gia Lai and Đắk Lắk Provinces only border Cambodia. Lam Dong Province, where Dalat is located, is landlocked and doesn’t share an international border, yet it remains a vital part of the region’s cultural and geographic tapestry.
