Climate and region of Dalat
Dalat is located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, a mountainous region known for its cool climate and lush landscapes. Despite being closer to Nha Trang than Ho Chi Minh City, its seasons are more in line with southern Vietnam, particularly when it comes to rainfall. However, unlike Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne, or Phu Quoc, the altitude of Dalat results in larger temperature variations throughout the year.
Dry season of Dalat (November – April): This period is characterized by lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The months of December and January can feel particularly cool, especially in the early mornings and evenings.
Rainy season of Dalat (May – October): Frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavier rainfall define these months. The higher elevation means the temperature remains milder than the humid heat of Vietnam’s lowland regions.
Travel tip: Dalat’s climate does not follow the same patterns as coastal or southern destinations, so if you are planning a trip across Vietnam, it’s best to check an overview of the best time to visit Vietnam.
Weather in Dalat in January
Dalat in January experiences cool and dry weather, as it falls in the middle of the dry season. Temperatures range from 11°C to 23°C (52°F to 73°F), making it one of the cooler months of the year. Compared to the humid heat of southern Vietnam, Dalat’s crisp air can feel refreshing, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Rainfall is minimal, averaging only 20-30 mm, meaning clear skies and pleasant conditions dominate most days.
With little rain and comfortable temperatures, January is one of the most stable months weather-wise in Dalat. While daytime remains mild, evenings can feel quite chilly due to the city’s altitude. This is significantly cooler than cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Nha Trang at this time of year. If you want to compare January with other months, read our guide to best time to visit Dalat.
Is Dalat worth visiting in January?
Yes, Dalat is worth visiting in January, and it is a very good month to go. The cool, dry weather makes it one of the most comfortable times of the year for sightseeing and outdoor activities. With clear skies and little rain, you can easily explore Dalat’s famous landscapes, from lush pine forests to scenic viewpoints without worrying about sudden downpours. Trekking, cycling, and exploring the countryside are all enjoyable in these conditions.
However, while the weather is great, January is not the best time for waterfalls, as the dry season means lower water levels. Some waterfalls may still be worth visiting, but they won’t be as powerful as in the rainy months. On the other hand, the city’s gardens and parks are well-maintained, and the Tet holiday (if it falls in late January) adds a festive atmosphere with colorful flower displays. If you prefer stable weather and clear days over lush green landscapes and powerful waterfalls, January is an excellent time to visit Dalat.
Dalat during Tet Holiday
Tet, or Vietnamese New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam, marking the arrival of spring based on the lunar calendar. It is a time for Vietnamese families to reunite, honor ancestors, and welcome a fresh start. In most cities, businesses and restaurants shut down for several days, but in Dalat, the impact is less severe. However, the real challenge isn’t finding open places to eat—it’s dealing with the crowds.
Tet is one of the busiest travel periods in Vietnam, and Dalat is one of the most popular destinations for domestic tourists. Roads leading to Dalat, especially from Ho Chi Minh City, experience heavy traffic congestion, with some travelers spending hours stuck on the way. Within the city, popular attractions, night markets, and even smaller cafés become extremely crowded. If possible, it’s best to avoid traveling during this specific period. Read more about Tet, its traditions, and the exact dates for upcoming years in Tet Holiday in Vietnam.
Dalat Flower Festival
While the Dalat Flower Festival is usually held in December, in some years, it has extended into early January. If your visit aligns with these dates, you’ll still get to experience one of Dalat’s most spectacular cultural events, featuring massive floral displays, exhibitions, and parades that celebrate the city’s agricultural beauty.
By January, some flower installations may remain at locations such as Xuan Huong Lake, Dalat Flower Park, and the central streets, although the peak festival days are typically in December. Even if the main celebrations have ended, Dalat remains in a festive mood, with floral decorations lingering throughout the city. To check if the festival aligns with your trip and get full event details, visit Guide to Dalat Flower Festival.
Best things to do in Dalat in January
Dalat’s charm lies in its breathtaking nature, thrilling outdoor adventures, and vibrant food and coffee culture. While these experiences are available year-round, each season brings a different atmosphere and conditions that shape your visit. January, in the heart of the dry season, offers some of the most stable weather, making it an excellent time to explore. Instead of listing every activity, this section highlights how the season influences Dalat’s top experiences. For a complete list of activities and travel tips, check out things to do in Dalat.
1. Exploring Dalat’s nature in winter
Dalat’s landscapes in January are defined by crisp mountain air, clear blue skies, and dry conditions, making it one of the most comfortable months for exploring nature. The pine forests, rolling hills, and lakes look beautiful in the winter sunlight, and trekking paths remain dry and accessible. However, this is not the best time for waterfalls—after months of little rain, many of them have a weaker flow, and some may even look underwhelming. The countryside still has a fresh and open feel, but it lacks the deep green vibrancy that the rainy season brings.
2. Outdoor activities in January
January is one of the best months for trekking, mountain biking, and other land-based outdoor activities. With minimal rain, trails remain dry, making it easy to explore without worrying about muddy paths. The cool temperatures allow for longer hikes without the discomfort of heat and humidity. Canyoning, while possible year-round, can feel a bit chilly due to the colder water temperatures, though it remains a popular adventure. Camping is also an option, though nights can get quite cold, so it’s best to come prepared for the crisp evening air.
3. Exploring the cozy food & coffee shop scene
With its cool winter air, January is the perfect time to embrace Dalat’s cozy food and coffee scene. Warm up with a hot Vietnamese coffee in one of the many rustic cafés scattered around the city, or enjoy a hearty meal at a local barbecue restaurant, where grilled meats and vegetables pair perfectly with the crisp evening weather. The night market is also a great place to experience street food, with steaming bowls of hot soy milk and sizzling skewers filling the air with inviting aromas. Whether you prefer the warmth of an intimate café or the energy of Dalat’s bustling food stalls, January offers plenty of ways to enjoy the local culinary culture.
Travel tips for January in Dalat
Visiting Dalat in January means preparing for cool temperatures and dry conditions, making it one of the most comfortable months for exploring the city. While the weather is generally stable, knowing what to pack and how to plan accommodations will help ensure a smooth trip.
What to bring
- Warm clothing – Even though Dalat is in southern Vietnam, January nights and early mornings can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 11°C (52°F). A light jacket or sweater is essential.
- Comfortable walking shoes – With dry weather and cool temperatures, January is a great time for exploring on foot. Bring comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes for sightseeing and nature walks.
- Sunscreen – The sun can be strong, especially when riding a motorbike or spending time outdoors. Even if temperatures feel cool, UV exposure is high.
- Moisturizer & lip balm – The cool and dry air can cause skin and lips to dry out, so it’s a good idea to bring some protection.
- Hat & sunglasses – Clear skies mean plenty of sunshine, so having a hat and sunglasses will help protect against glare.
Accommodations and availability
January is part of Dalat’s peak travel season, as the cool climate attracts visitors escaping the heat from other parts of Vietnam. While accommodations are generally available, booking in advance is recommended for better choices, especially for boutique hotels or resorts. A major travel consideration is Tet Holiday, which sometimes falls at the end of January or early February. During this time, Dalat becomes extremely crowded, and prices for hotels rise significantly. If planning to visit during Tet, it’s best to book well in advance or consider avoiding those specific days if you prefer a quieter experience.
Dalat during Tet holiday
In need 2 unique text for this, as I need to place 1 for January and one for February.
Explain what Tet is shortly, Vietnamese New Year and what Vietnamese do for Tet. Many shops, restaurants close during Tet, altough not very bad in Dalat itself compared to most other cities. However, that is because mainly one other reason . Then explain that Tet Holiday is besides this also a major holiday for traveling. Dalat is one of the most popular places for Vietnamese to travel too. So get extremly crowded. Traffic stuck already on the way to Dalat from Ho Chi Minh City. Inside Dalat also crazy busy. If can, avoid this specific period. Read more about this holiday and the exact days for coming years in “Tet Holiday in Vietnam” https://dev.localvietnam.com/culture/holidays/vietnamese-new-year/
Dalat Flower Festival
I need 3 different text. One for November, one for December, one for January.
November is not very likely, but few times in the passed it started in November.
December is most likely. Almost all festivals December was part of it. Sometimes early december together with november, sometimes middle december, sometimes late decemebr together with january. I can see only one year it was held in January.
January, not super likely, but it has happen that it was help in january or part of janauary together with end of december.
Besides these notes, of course explain what Dalat Flower Festival exactly is and what to expect.
For everything your need to know, read our “guide to Dalat Flower Festival” https://dev.localvietnam.com/lam-dong/dalat/dalat-flower-festival/
Reunification Day Holiday in Dalat
Explain what Reunification Day is what do they celebrate. Everywhere flags in the streets of Dalat and Vietnam. But for Dalat it means peak travel time. Reunification day (30 April) is official day off and together with Labour Day on May 1 and weekend (even if one of these days falls in weekend the day off get shifted to outside the weekend, so this created after Tet the biggest holiday in Vietnam. Dalat is very popular for Vietnamese to travel to for this holiday, so very busy. It is just around 4 to 5 peak days, but if you happen to go there in your plan, prepare or if possible try to plan around it.
Christmas and New Year in Dalat
Explain that both Christmas and even New Year are not typical Vietnamese celebrations. Vietnam has Vietnamese New Year that celebrated based on the Lunar calendar, either late January or early February. That said, the commercial aspects, specillay Christmas are embraced. Many shops, restaurants, hotels and homestays have Christmas decorations. ALso, Dalat with colder tempratures in December and its pine forest give a bit more of a tradional Christmas feeling. For New Year, fireworks are not traditionally done and not very common but can be held depending on the year and budget. Firework is more a tradition for Vietnamese New Year, but best to check current events as it can depends. Dalat is not huge in nightlife, however there are some New Years eve parties that are organised by bars and homestays. It is much more of an intimate party compared to other cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City where this is way more celebrated.
