How to Travel to Da Lat by Train: Best Routes, Prices & Scenic Journeys

Da Lat, a picturesque ward in Lam Dong province, is a haven for nature lovers, with its pine forests, flower gardens, and serene lakes. While Da Lat lacks a train station, the journey by train to nearby hubs like Nha Trang or Thap Cham, followed by a bus transfer, offers a unique way to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. From coastal vistas to rolling hills, the rail route is both affordable and scenic, perfect for travelers seeking a slower, immersive adventure. Legend Travel Group’s tour packages ($30-$60 per person) combine train travel with guided visits to Da Lat’s highlights, ensuring a hassle-free trip. Here’s how to plan your train journey to Da Lat with the latest routes, prices, and tips.

There is no direct train to Da Lat due to the absence of a railway station in the ward. The closest intercity train stations are:

• Nha Trang Railway Station (135 km from Da Lat): Located in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa province, this is the most convenient option due to frequent train services and reliable bus connections to Da Lat.

• Thap Cham Railway Station (100 km from Da Lat): Situated in My Hung Ward, Phan Rang commune, Ninh Thuan province, this is a viable alternative with slightly shorter bus transfers.

Both routes involve a train journey followed by a bus or private car to Da Lat, offering stunning views of Vietnam’s countryside. Legend Travel Group can arrange end-to-end transportation, including train tickets and bus transfers, for a seamless experience.

1. From Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat via Nha Trang

• Train Route: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Station) to Nha Trang (Nha Trang Station)

• Distance: 411 km

• Travel Time: 7.5-9 hours by train

• Train Options: Vietnam Railways operates 6 daily trains (SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8, SE22, SNT2), including the Reunification Express. Luxury options like Saigon Golden Train or Livitrans Express offer enhanced comfort with soft sleeper berths.

• Ticket Prices:

  • Hard seat: $12-$20 (VND 300,000-500,000)

  • Soft seat: $15-$25 (VND 375,000-625,000)

  • Hard sleeper (6-berth cabin): $20-$30 (VND 500,000-750,000)

  • Soft sleeper (4-berth cabin): $30-$40 (VND 750,000-1,000,000)

  • Luxury sleeper (e.g., Livitrans, Golden Train): $50-$70 (VND 1,250,000-1,750,000)

• Bus from Nha Trang to Da Lat:

  • Distance: 135 km

  • Travel Time: 3.5-5 hours

  • Bus Operators: Phuong Trang (Futa Bus Lines), TheSinhTourist, Minh Tri Limousine, Khanh Phong

  • Bus Prices: $6-$10 (VND 150,000-250,000)

  • Total Travel Time: 11-14 hours

• Description: This route is popular for its scenic coastal views, passing fruit orchards in Long Khanh and vibrant rice paddies. Nha Trang Station is centrally located, making bus transfers easy. Legend Travel Group’s packages ($80-$150 per person) include train tickets, bus transfers, and Da Lat sightseeing.

2. From Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat via Thap Cham

• Train Route: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Station) to Thap Cham (Thap Cham Station)

• Distance: 350 km

• Travel Time: 6-7.5 hours by train

• Train Options: Vietnam Railways trains (SE7, SE21) with standard and sleeper options.

• Ticket Prices:

  • Hard seat: $12-$18 (VND 300,000-450,000)

  • Soft seat: $15-$22 (VND 375,000-550,000)

  • Hard sleeper: $20-$28 (VND 500,000-700,000)

  • Soft sleeper: $25-$35 (VND 625,000-875,000)

• Bus from Thap Cham to Da Lat:

  • Distance: 100 km

  • Travel Time: 2.5-3.5 hours

  • Bus Operators: Hien An, Quynh Nhu

  • Bus Prices: $5-$8 (VND 125,000-200,000)

  • Total Travel Time: 8.5-11 hours

• Description: A shorter route ideal for those prioritizing speed. The train passes through coastal plains and rural villages, with a quicker bus transfer to Da Lat’s highlands. Legend Travel Group’s private tours ($100-$200 per group) offer tailored transfers.

3. From Hanoi to Da Lat via Nha Trang

• Train Route: Hanoi (Hanoi Station) to Nha Trang (Nha Trang Station)

• Distance: 1,047 km

• Travel Time: 22-25 hours by train

• Train Options: Vietnam Railways trains (SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE9, SE11) with soft and hard sleeper options.

• Ticket Prices:

  • Hard seat: $20-$30 (VND 500,000-750,000)

  • Soft seat: $25-$35 (VND 625,000-875,000)

  • Hard sleeper: $35-$45 (VND 875,000-1,125,000)

  • Soft sleeper: $45-$60 (VND 1,125,000-1,500,000)

• Bus from Nha Trang to Da Lat: As above, 3.5-5 hours, $6-$10.

• Total Travel Time: 26-30 hours

• Description: A longer but scenic journey, passing iconic sites like Hue and Da Nang. Opt for a soft sleeper for comfort on this overnight trip. Legend Travel Group’s multi-day packages ($100-$200 per person) include train tickets, bus transfers, and Da Lat activities like coffee plantation visits.

• Online: Book train tickets via Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn) or platforms like Baolau.com or 12go.asia. Bus tickets are available through Futa Bus Lines, TheSinhTourist, or Legend Travel Group’s website.

• By Phone: Call Vietnam Railways’ hotline (+84 1900 636 212) for train reservations or Legend Travel Group (+84 825862222) for bundled packages.

• In-Person: Purchase train tickets at Saigon or Hanoi stations and bus tickets at Nha Trang or Thap Cham bus terminals. Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance during peak seasons (February-April, September-November).

• Through Legend Travel Group: Our all-inclusive packages ($80-$200 per person) handle train and bus bookings, ensuring a stress-free journey.

• By Flight: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat Airport) or Hanoi (Noi Bai Airport) to Lien Khuong Airport (30 km from Da Lat). Flights take 1-1.5 hours, costing $50-$100 one-way with Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, or Bamboo Airways. Airport taxis ($13-$17) or shuttle buses ($2) reach Da Lat’s center in 45 minutes.

• By Bus: Direct buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat take 7-9 hours, costing $10-$18. Operators like Phuong Trang and Thanh Buoi offer modern sleeper buses. From Hanoi, buses take 30 hours, costing $25-$40.

• By Private Car: Rent a car with a driver for $110-$150 per day, taking 6-7 hours from Ho Chi Minh City or 24-28 hours from Hanoi.

• By Motorbike: For experienced riders, rent a motorbike ($10-$30 per day) for a 7-8 hour ride from Ho Chi Minh City or 24-28 hours from Hanoi.

• Best Time to Travel: February to April or September to November offer cool weather (15-25°C) and clear skies, ideal for train views and Da Lat exploration. Avoid May to August for less rain.

• Train Comfort: Book soft sleeper berths for overnight journeys, especially from Hanoi. Bring snacks, a neck pillow, and earplugs for a better experience. Secure luggage with a lock, as minor theft can occur at stops.

• Bus Transfers: Confirm bus schedules in Nha Trang or Thap Cham in advance. Phuong Trang and TheSinhTourist offer reliable, air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi.

• What to Bring: Pack light clothing for Da Lat’s mild climate, a jacket for cooler evenings, and a camera for scenic train views. Carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) for small purchases at stations.

• Combine with Tours: Legend Travel Group’s Da Lat packages ($30-$60 per person) include coffee plantation visits, waterfall treks, and cultural stops, enhancing your train journey.

As a trusted local tour operator, Legend Travel Group specializes in crafting unforgettable Da Lat experiences. Our packages include:

• Da Lat Day Tours ($30-$60 per person): Explore Datanla Waterfall, Crazy House, and coffee plantations.

• Multi-Day Highland Adventures ($100-$200 per person): Combine Da Lat with Cat Ba’s Monkey Island, Lan Ha Bay, or Hanoi’s Temple of Literature.

• Train and Bus Packages ($80-$150 per person): Seamless transportation from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, with guided Da Lat tours.

• Private Tours ($150-$300 per group): Customizable itineraries with private transport and expert guides.

Contact us at +84 825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com to book your Da Lat adventure today!

Ready to embark on a scenic train journey to Da Lat? Browse our exclusive tour packages below and book with Legend Travel Group for a hassle-free experience. From train rides to highland explorations, our Da Lat Tours offer the perfect itinerary to make your Da Lat Travel trip unforgettable. Reserve your spot now and discover Vietnam’s highland charm!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group