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Story: Nam Hoa
Photos: Tonkin
In early spring, Dalat retains a trace of winter’s chill, yet warmth begins to spread. The dry weather at this time is perfect for visitors to lose themselves in the mist and clouds—truly the signature charm of this foggy region.
Misty enchantment at Tia Stream
South of Dalat City lies the picturesque Tuyen Lam Lake, where streams, forests, and mountains converge. The largest freshwater lake in Dalat, Tuyen Lam was formed by a dam blocking Tia Stream, the longest branch of Datanla Stream, which originates from Phuong Hoang Mountain.
A unique feature of Tuyen Lam Lake is the swampy cajuput forest along Tia Stream—the only tropical rainforest submerged in freshwater in Dalat. Encircled by pine forests on the slopes of the surrounding mountains, Tia Stream feels like a world of its own: serene and captivating. In the early morning chill, a curtain of mist blankets the entire area. Occasionally, a gentle breeze lifts this veil of fog, revealing cajuput trees with their slender branches—budding with fresh green shoots—rising from the jade-green waters. The scene resembles an ethereal watercolor painting.
As dawn gradually breaks over the mountains, the cajuput forest absorbs the morning sun’s rays. The slender trunks stand out against the swirling mist on the lake’s surface, resembling dancers lost in a magical ballet. Suddenly, amidst this serene and mystical atmosphere, the sound of oars gently splashing through water echoes leisurely. A lone fisherman’s small wooden fishing boat appears on Tia Stream, gradually emerging from the mist as if from another realm, adding to the already captivating scenery.
We quietly allow our souls to merge with this misty state. My travel companion silently inflates his SUP board, brews some steaming coffee, gently places his mug on his board, and drifts aimlessly across this ethereal landscape. Indeed, this is a perfect way to savor a cup of morning coffee – a specialty of this foggy land.
Floating among clouds on Da Phu Hill
Da Phu Hill, located in the northwest of Dalat, is celebrated for its morning sea of white clouds drifting gracefully across the landscape. After ascending on winding trails through pine forests in the dimming light, we reached the summit. From a height of about 1,500 meters, the view revealed Dalat’s shimmering lights at night, set against the rolling silhouettes of distant mountains.
In the soft morning light, we stood in awe of the expansive sea of floating white clouds. The dark mountain ranges, hidden under the night’s veil, now emerged like islands scattered in this ocean of clouds. The pine forests here were sparse, the trees widely spaced. Occasionally, a gust of wind would part the clouds, revealing lower hills crisscrossed by winding paths through green grasslands, interspersed with patches of reddish-brown soil. The scene grew even more enchanting as golden sunlight filtered through the mist draping the hilltops, mingling with glimpses of pine trees peeking through. It is magical to enjoy such a peaceful scene within the heart of a city.
Otherworldly mist over Hon Bo Peak
To the northeast of Dalat, Hon Bo Peak forms a triangle with Da Phu Hill and Tia Stream around central Dalat. While Tia Stream is enchanting with its misty veil and Da Phu floats amidst clouds, the scene at Hon Bo felt unearthly, with seas of clouds and swirling fog all around.
Camping overnight on Hon Bo Peak at an elevation above 1,700 meters, we were captivated by the shimmering lights from flower villages in Thai Phien below. These lights stretched southward toward the famous “valley of lights” near Trai Mat Station. However, Hon Bo’s mesmerizing beauty fully reveals itself at dawn. Compared to Da Phu, this area features rolling hills and dense pine forests, the added moisture creating thicker fog. In dawn’s golden glow, we were entranced by a thick sea of white clouds in the distance, while Hon Bo was veiled in otherworldly mist lying at various elevations and layers of pine-covered hills.
As the sun rose higher through this ocean of clouds, its light filtered down on the vast pine forests below, creating magical rays reminiscent of fairies brushing their hair in the morning light.
Dalat is a dreamy realm with countless fascinating places to discover at different times of the year. At the start of spring, don’t miss the chance to wander through its clouds and mist. A visit to any of these locations will surely capture the heart of any romantic soul!
