Tuyen Lam Lake Tour - Kayak & Explore Da Lat

When you’re road-tripping Vietnam from the buzzing streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the misty mountains of Sapa, don’t skip the Central Highlands. Situated just outside Da Lat, Tuyen Lam Lake is like an oasis that’s equal parts peaceful and adventurous. I’ve explored every corner of this lake (and maybe drank way too much Vietnamese coffee here), so let me spill the beans (pun intended!) on why it deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Why Tuyen Lam Lake Should Be on Your Radar

Known as the “Lake of Fairy Forests,” Tuyen Lam is Vietnam’s largest freshwater lake, spanning over 350 hectares. But it’s not just its size that’s impressive—it’s the vibe. It is basically pine-covered hills hugging emerald waters, fog rolling over the surface at dawn, and zero crowds. Unlike the touristy Xuan Huong Lake in downtown Da Lat, Tuyen Lam feels untouched, making it perfect for travelers craving calm or adventure.

Fun fact: Locals say fairies once bathed here, giving the lake its magical name. Whether you believe in folklore or not, the scenery does feel otherworldly.

Getting to Tuyen Lam Lake

Located just 6km south of Da Lat, the lake is a quick 15-minute drive. Here’s how to get there:

1. Rent a Scooter (100,000–150,000 VND/day): Da Lat’s winding roads are a scooter paradise. Follow Nguyen Van Troi Street south, and you’ll see signs for the lake.

2. Grab a Taxi (150,000–200,000 VND one-way): Vinasun or Mai Linh are reliable.

3. Join a Tour: Many Dalat day tours include Tuyen Lam Lake, Truc Lam Pagoda, and the Datanla Waterfall.

Pro Tip: Download offline maps (Google Maps works here) in case the signal gets spotty.

Top Things to Do at Tuyen Lam Lake

1. Paddle Through Paradise on a Rowboat or Kayak

Rent a wooden rowboat (100,000 VND/hour) or kayak (150,000 VND/hour) and glide across the glassy water. Early mornings are magical—think misty horizons and birdsong. Keep an eye out for fishermen in traditional bamboo boats!

2. Visit Truc Lam Pagoda via Cable Car

Just 2km from the lake, Truc Lam Pagoda is one of Vietnam’s largest Zen monasteries. Take the Da Lat Cable Car (90,000 VND round-trip) for epic aerial views of the lake and pine forests. The pagoda’s gardens are a zen dream - don’t miss the giant Buddha statue!

3. Hike or Mountain Bike the Trails

Adventure junkies, rejoice! The hills around Tuyen Lam Lake have trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. For a quick loop, follow the path from the lakeside to Pinhatt Mountain (30-minute hike). Mountain bikes rent for 200,000 VND/day in Da Lat.

4. Picnic Like a Local

Grab banh mi, fresh fruit, and Vietnamese iced coffee from Da Lat Market, then claim a lakeside spot. Locals love the area near Tuyen Lam Lake Resort for its shaded benches.

5. Chase Waterfalls - Datanla or Elephant

Pair your lake day with a visit to Datanla Waterfall (5km away), where you can try alpine coaster rides, or Elephant Waterfall (30km away) for raw, cascading power.

6. Stay for Sunset (or Sunrise!)

The lake’s east-facing location makes sunrise unforgettable. For sunset, head to the floating houses on the north shore—golden hour here is pure Insta-gold.

Where to Eat & Stay Near Tuyen Lam Lake

Eat:

• Goc Ha Thanh Restaurant: Lakeside spot serving hearty Vietnamese hotpot. Try the goat meat—it’s a Da Lat specialty!

• Windmills Coffee: Quirky café with killer lake views and strong espresso.

Stay:

• Tuyen Lam Lake Resorts (Mid-range): Cozy bungalows right on the water. Rates from 800,000 VND/night.

• Terracotta Hotel (Budget): Chic, artsy rooms 10 minutes away. Rates from 400,000 VND/night on average.

• Da Lat City Center: Prefer nightlife? Dalat has homestays and hostels galore.

Local Tips You Won’t Find on Google

• Weather Wise: Da Lat is cool year-round (avg 15–25°C), but mornings can be chilly. Pack a light jacket!

• Avoid Crowds: Weekends get busy with locals. Visit on a weekday for solitude and for photo shoots.

• Respect the Environment: Trash bins are scarce - carry a reusable bag for your waste.

• Cash is King: Most boat rentals and cafes don’t take cards.
  
  Note: Check our travel guide if you are https://junglebosstours.com/explorer/tourism-blog/dalat-to-hoi-an-travel-guide next!

Final Thoughts: Is Tuyen Lam Lake Worth It?

Ab-so-lutely. Whether you’re kayaking at dawn, meditating at Truc Lam Pagoda, or just soaking in the views with a cup of ca phe sua da, Tuyen Lam Lake is Da Lat’s quiet powerhouse. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Vietnam’s highlands are so special—untouched, authentic, and full of surprises.

So, slap on that sunscreen, rent a scooter, and add this fairy-tale lake to your Vietnam bucket list. And if you spot a woodland fairy, send her my regards!