Accordingly, the Lam Dong Provincial People’s Committee, Lien Khuong International Airport, the gateway to Da Lat, is set to close for runway and taxiway repairs after 18 years of operation. The provincial authorities stated that this is a necessary action but will impact on the economic and social development of the province, particularly tourism. The closure period is not yet determined, but it is expected to occur before December 2025, avoiding the peak summer tourist season in Da Lat. Visitors can still reach Da Lat via bus, combining flights to nearby airports, or by train to Nha Trang.
Traveling to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh City: Various and adaptable choices
Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 300 km from Da Lat, offers various transportation options for travelers.
Firstly, sleeper buses or limousines are popular, with ticket prices ranging from 250,000 to 350,000 VND per ticket. Travel time is 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Numerous bus companies operate out of Thu Duc City’s new Eastern Bus Station, as well as other pickup locations in the city center.
Secondly, visitors can also drive themselves, taking National Highway 20 via the Lien Khuong – Prenn expressway, is not only convenient but also offers beautiful mountainous scenery, especially along the Prenn Pass. However, winding roads require experienced drivers.
Finally, from Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can take the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay expressway, then turn onto the Phan Thiet – Dau Giay expressway and continue on the Vinh Hao – Phan Thiet expressway. This route connects to National Highways 55, 28, and 28B in Binh Thuan, leading to Lam Dong.
Getting to Da Lat by “parachute jump”
During Lien Khuong’s temporary closure, travelers from Hanoi or northern provinces can travel by air to nearby airports and then by road.
From Cam Ranh Airport, which is 160 km from Da Lat, travelers can take a bus or rent a car from Nha Trang to Da Lat, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. Bus fares range from 150,000 to 250,000 VND per ticket and depart from the Southern Bus Station or various city center pickup points.
From Buon Ma Thuot Airport, travelers can take National Route 27 through Phi Nom Pass in Duc Trong District or drive along Nguyen Luong Bang Road. Bus fares range from 120,000 to 200,000 VND per ticket, with a travel time of 3 to 4 hours.
Conclusion
Traveling to Da Lat by train and bus is a great option for those with more time and a desire for a comfortable journey. Trains do not go directly to Da Lat but stop at Nha Trang station, which is about 134 km away from Da Lat, and then travelers can take a bus or rent a car to Da Lat. The advantage is that it’s perfect for people who love the experience because of the cozy area and lovely surroundings.