Several routes lead to Da Lat City in Vietnam’s Central Highlands region. Photo: M. V. / Tuoi Tre
According to the Lam Dong Province People's Committee, Lien Khuong International Airport will shut down to repair its taxiways and runway after 18 years since its last upgrade.
The renovation, though crucial, may hinder economic and tourism development in the province.
While the exact dates remain unconfirmed, officials have assured that the closure will not begin before December 2025, thereby sparing the peak summer tourist season.
Despite the inconvenience, travelers will still have multiple alternative routes to reach Da Lat.
From Ho Chi Minh City: flexible and well-connected
Located roughly 300 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat is easily accessible via a range of transportation options.
Sleeper buses and luxury limousines are popular choices, with ticket prices between VND250,000 and VND350,000 (US$9.6 - $13.4).
The journey typically takes six to eight hours, depending on traffic.
Besides, self-driving is also a favored option. National Highway 20 connects Ho Chi Minh City with Da Lat, passing through the scenic Prenn Pass.
Phan Thiet–Dau Giay and Vinh Hao–Phan Thiet expressways opened to traffic in mid-2023, offering new alternatives for road travelers.
These routes link to various national highways such as 55, 28, and 28B, offering diverse entry points into Lam Dong Province.
National Highway 28B is a popular choice, but is currently under renovation, particularly at the Dai Ninh Pass section, which may affect travel conditions.
Alternatively, National Highway 27 through Ngoan Muc Pass provides a smoother ride, especially after recent upgrades, though the route is longer than National Highway 20.
Mix of flying and driving
Travelers from Hanoi and northern provinces can still fly to nearby airports and continue by road.
From Cam Ranh International Airport in south-central Khanh Hoa Province, located about 160 kilometers from Da Lat, passengers can take a passenger bus or rent a car to reach Da Lat in three or four hours.
Passenger bus fares range from VND150,000 to VND250,000 ($5.8 - $9.6), with 15–20 trips available daily.
The route passes through Vo Nguyen Giap Road, Cao Ba Quat Road, Provincial Road 652, Khanh Le Pass, and National Highway 27C.
From Buon Ma Thuot Airport in Dak Lak Province, about 200 kilometers from Da Lat, travelers can drive along National Highway 27 via Phi Nom Pass to reach Lam Dong Province.
Passenger bus tickets cost between VND120,000 and VND200,000 ($4.6 - $7.7), with a travel time of three or four hours.
For many years, Cam Ranh International Airport in south-central Khanh Hoa Province has been the main entry point for international tourists who experience the Nha Trang – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang tour.
By train: leisurely experience
For travelers who prefer a slower pace and scenic views, combining train and road travel is another viable option.
While no train goes directly to Da Lat, trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City reach Nha Trang Station, about 134 kilometers away.
From there, travelers can take a passenger bus or rent a car to continue the journey to Da Lat.
This mode of travel suits those who enjoy a relaxed journey, offering comfort and beautiful landscapes en route.
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