Are you ready for a journey into the royal past? Join me as we uncover the captivating history and exquisite beauty of the Bao Dai Summer Palace. Nestled amidst a serene pine forest near the Pasteur Institute, this architectural gem was built between 1933 and 1937, under the reign of King Bao Dai, the last king of the Vietnamese feudal court.
Location & History
The Bao Dai Summer Palace was originally constructed as a retreat for King Bao Dai and his royal family to escape the scorching summer heat. However, when the French colonial forces returned to Vietnam in 1950, the palace transformed into both the king’s office and residence. Today, you can find this magnificent villa on Trieu Viet Vuong Street. Step into the palace and immerse yourself in its rich historical significance.
Photo: secretvietnam.com
What To See
Prepare to be amazed as you explore the two-story structure of the Bao Dai Summer Palace. With 25 rooms showcasing the living quarters of the royal family, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their opulent lifestyle. The ground floor served as the king’s working space, featuring his office, guest room, and reception room. Meanwhile, the upper floor provided a luxurious living space for the king and his family. Don’t miss the stunning “watching moon” balcony attached to the king’s bedroom, where he and the queen would admire the moonlight. Each room exudes the unique characteristics and status of its occupants. For example, the eldest son’s room, painted in lavish yellow, was considered the epitome of luxury at that time. The queen’s room, on the other hand, emanates a feminine touch.
Photo by @lylychuu
Photo: daytripvietnam.com
Inside the palace, you’ll discover a treasure trove of well-preserved artifacts. Admire the intricate sculptures depicting the royal family, gaze upon the life-size white bust of Bao Dai himself, and behold the smaller golden and brown bust of his father, Khai Dinh. Other noteworthy items include a picture of Angkor Wat gifted to King Bao Dai by King Sihanouk of Cambodia and an engraved glass map of Vietnam.
How To Get There
Embarking on your journey to the Bao Dai Summer Palace is easy. Located in Da Lat, one of Vietnam’s most beloved destinations, the palace can be reached within minutes from the central market by taxi or xe om (motorcycle taxi). Opening hours are from 7 am to 11 am and 1:30 pm to 4 pm. The entry fee is just US$1, with an additional charge for bringing a camera. Remember to remove your shoes at the entrance to maintain the palace’s pristine condition.
Useful Information
To assist you in planning your visit, here are some useful details:
- Location: Dinh Bao Dai, Dalat
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance fee: VND 10,000
- Opening hours: 7 am – 4 pm
- Distance from city center: 3.3 km (2.1 mi)
Now that you have a glimpse into the majestic world of the Bao Dai Summer Palace, it’s time to embark on your own royal adventure. Discover the beauty, history, and cultural significance that awaits you at this remarkable landmark. Visit the official website of Rừng Cúc Phương for more information and start planning your trip today!
