Bao Lam

Bảo Lâm is a rural district of Lâm Đồng province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, located south of Da Lat along Highway 20. The district is known for its rolling hills, tea and coffee plantations, and the dramatic Đamb'ri waterfall area. It has a population of around 150,000 and serves as a quieter agricultural alternative to the better-known Bao Loc city, which lies immediately to the south.

The district's economy is based on tea, coffee, mulberry cultivation for silk, and fruit orchards. The climate is mild year-round, with a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The area sees few international tourists, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience.

By Plane

Lien Khuong Airport (DLI IATA) near Da Lat, about 90 km north, is the nearest airport. Buses and taxis connect to Bao Lam from the airport.

By Car / Road

Bao Lam lies along National Highway 20 between Da Lat (90 km north) and Bao Loc (20 km south). Regular buses from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Lat pass through the district. By motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City it's about 170 km (4 hr).

Motorbike is the most practical way to explore Bao Lam's rural landscape. Xe om (motorbike taxis) are available in the district centre. Local buses connect the communes.

• Đamb'ri Waterfall (shared with Bao Loc) — One of the tallest waterfalls in the Central Highlands, plunging 60 m into a forested gorge.

• Tea and coffee plantations — Endless green hillsides of tea and coffee, with some farms offering tours.

• Silk weaving villages — Traditional mulberry farming and silk production.

• Trekking through plantations — Walk or cycle through the tea estates and coffee groves.

• Waterfall visits — Several smaller waterfalls in the district beyond Đamb'ri.

• Homestay cultural experiences — Some local families offer homestays with meals.

Highland specialities include grilled meats, hotpot dishes with local herbs, and steamed rice rolls. Several roadside eateries along Highway 20 serve phở and bánh mì. Vegetarian options are available at Buddhist temple canteens.

Fresh tea from local plantations is served everywhere. Coffee is also widely available. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Small guesthouses in the district centre (from 150,000 dong).
• Mid-range: Homestays and mini-hotels along Highway 20 (from 250,000 dong).

Local tea (especially oolong) and coffee are the main products to buy. The district markets also sell fresh bananas, avocados, and other highland produce. Silk scarves are produced locally.

• Bao Loc (20 km south) — Tea capital of Vietnam with Đamb'ri Falls.
• Da Lat (90 km north) — The premier hill station of the Central Highlands.
• Cat Tien National Park (70 km southwest) — Lowland rainforest and wildlife.
• Ho Chi Minh City (170 km southwest, 4 hr) — Vietnam's largest city.