Di Linh

Di Linh (historically known as Djiring in French) is a district in south-central Lâm Đồng province, covering 1,628 km² with a population of about 154,000. The district capital is Di Linh town, situated along National Highway 20 between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Lat. The area is known for its rolling hills, extensive tea and coffee plantations, and the minority communities of the K'Ho people.

The district sits at an elevation of around 900–1,000 m, giving it a mild climate year-round. The economy is primarily agricultural, with tea, coffee, and vegetables as the main crops. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit.

By Plane

Lien Khuong Airport (DLI IATA) near Da Lat is about 60 km north (1 hr by road). Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN IATA) in Ho Chi Minh City is about 230 km southwest (5 hr).

By Car / Road

Di Linh lies on National Highway 20, the main road between Ho Chi Minh City (230 km, 5 hr) and Da Lat (60 km, 1 hr). Frequent buses pass through from both cities. By motorbike, the winding road through Di Linh's tea-covered hills is one of the most scenic rides in the Central Highlands.

The town centre is walkable. Taxis and xe om are available for trips to surrounding plantations and waterfalls. Motorbike rental is available from local guesthouses.

• Tea plantations — Endless green terraces of tea covering the hills around Di Linh, with several estates open to visitors.

• Coffee plantations — Robusta and arabica coffee grown on the district's fertile slopes.

• Di Linh market — A bustling central market with local produce, tea, and coffee.

• K'Ho ethnic minority villages — Traditional stilt houses and weaving in communities around the district.

• Tea plantation tours — Walk through the tea fields and sample fresh brews.

• Coffee tours — See the full coffee production cycle from cherry to cup.

• Motorbike rides — The mountain roads around Di Linh offer spectacular views.

• Trekking — Explore the hills and valleys on foot.

Local restaurants serve highland specialities including bánh căn (rice pancakes), lẩu (hotpot), and grilled meats. Tea is served with every meal in local homes. Several roadside eateries along Highway 20 cater to passing travellers.

Di Linh produces some of Vietnam's best oolong tea. Coffee is also excellent. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Guesthouses on the main road (from 150,000 dong).
• Mid-range: Di Linh Hotel and similar mini-hotels (from 300,000 dong).

Di Linh is known for its oolong and green tea, as well as coffee beans. The market sells fresh produce, local honey, and handicrafts. Bargaining is expected at the market.

• Da Lat (60 km north, 1 hr) — The iconic hill station of Vietnam.
• Bao Loc (40 km south, 45 min) — Tea capital with Đamb'ri waterfall.
• Ho Chi Minh City (230 km southwest, 5 hr) — Vietnam's commercial centre.
• Phan Thiet (130 km east, 3 hr) — Beach destination on the south-central coast.