Bao Loc

Bao Loc (Bảo Lộc) is a medium-sized city in southern Lâm Đồng province, situated on Highway 20 between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Lat. Sitting at an elevation of around 800 m, it enjoys a mild highland climate that makes it a popular rest stop for travellers journeying between the coast and the Central Highlands. The city is the centre of Vietnam's tea-growing region, with rolling hills of emerald tea plantations surrounding the urban area.

Bao Loc's economy is driven by tea production, coffee, and silk weaving. The city has a relaxed, provincial character with a growing number of cafés, hotels, and restaurants catering to passing travellers. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Lien Khuong Airport (DLI IATA) near Da Lat, about 100 km north (2 hr by road). From there, taxis and buses connect to Bao Loc.

By Car / Road

Bao Loc sits on National Highway 20, the main road linking Ho Chi Minh City with Da Lat. Buses from Ho Chi Minh City's Mien Dong station run frequently (about 4–5 hr). Local buses also connect from Da Lat (2 hr), Phan Thiet, and Bien Hoa. By motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City it's about 180 km and takes 4–5 hours.

The city centre is compact and walkable. Taxis and xe om (motorbike taxis) are available for trips to outlying tea plantations and waterfalls. Many guesthouses offer motorbike rental.

• Đamb'ri Waterfall (about 5 km from the city centre) — A scenic 60 m waterfall surrounded by lush forest, accessible via a short trek. Entrance 30,000 dong.

• Bao Loc Lake (Hồ Bảo Lộc) — A central lake popular with locals for weekend fishing and relaxation, with views of apartments and a temple in the background.

• Tea plantations — The hills around Bao Loc are covered in tea estates; many welcome visitors for a walk and a cup of freshly brewed local tea.

• Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda — A hilltop Buddhist temple with panoramic views of the tea-growing region.

• Tea tasting — Visit a local tea processing facility to sample oolong and green teas.

• Waterfall trekking — Hike to Đamb'ri Falls and smaller cascades in the surrounding hills.

• Silk weaving workshops — Bao Loc is known for its silk; some workshops offer demonstrations.

• Bánh căn — Mini savoury rice pancakes with egg or seafood, a Central Highlands speciality.
• Bánh ướt lòng gà — Steamed rice rolls with chicken innards, a local breakfast dish.
• Lẩu gà lá é — Chicken hotpot with the aromatic "é" herb, a regional favourite.
• Quán Chay (Tran Phu / Nguyen Van Troi) — A popular vegetarian restaurant.
• Fresh tea and coffee are ubiquitous at roadside cafés.

Bao Loc is Vietnam's tea capital. Sample fresh green tea, oolong, or the local artichoke tea at roadside stalls. Coffee is also excellent, grown on nearby highland estates. Bottled water is recommended; tap water is not safe to drink.

• Budget: Tu Hung Hotel (88 Ly Tu Trong, from 130,000 dong) — Clean rooms with parking. Various roadside guesthouses (from 150,000 dong).
• Mid-range: Bao Loc Hotel (from 300,000 dong), Nam Phuong Hotel (from 350,000 dong).

Bao Loc is the heart of Vietnam's tea industry. Look for oolong, green tea, and artichoke tea at local shops. The central market sells fresh produce, silk fabrics, and local snacks. Bargaining is expected.

• Da Lat (100 km north, 2 hr) — The hill-station capital of the Central Highlands.
• Ho Chi Minh City (180 km south, 4 hr) — Vietnam's dynamic commercial hub.
• Phan Thiet / Mui Ne (150 km east, 3 hr) — Beach town with sand dunes and seafood.
• Cat Tien National Park (80 km southwest, 2 hr) — Lowland tropical forest with wildlife.