Chasing the Dawn Mist on Three Hills in Da Lat

Summary:

Join photographer Vu Ngoc Thien on his journey to capture the enchanting morning mist draping over three iconic hills in Da Lat. Discover the serene beauty of Do Phu, Thien Phuc Duc, and Ngo Quyen hills as they reveal their misty secrets at dawn.

Content:

In the early hours of a crisp October morning, photographer Vu Ngoc Thien, 35, embarks on his quest to capture the ethereal morning mist enveloping the charming city of Da Lat. His dedication sees him rise before the break of dawn to visit three notable hills: Do Phu, Thien Phuc Duc, and Ngo Quyen.

By 5:30 am, he positions himself on the hills, ready to capture the spectacular sight. “Capturing the mist in Da Lat is simpler than in Ta Xua; just wake up early,” shares Thien, who has previously photographed sunrises across Vietnam.

Nestled 10 km from Da Lat’s city center, Do Phu Hill is accessible by motorbike. The best time to witness the mesmerizing mist mingling with clouds is between 5 and 6 am. However, locals advise that the ascent to the hilltop requires a powerful vehicle.

As dawn breaks, the sun pierces through the cloud cover, unveiling verdant pine lines on the hills. Besides mist, Do Phu Hill is a famous cloud-viewing spot among tourists visiting Da Lat.

By 7 am, as the sun climbs higher, the mist dissipates, unveiling the picturesque vista of Da Lat beneath.

The route along Do Phu, situated in ward 7, features numerous breakfast eateries, notable for xíu mại baguettes. Travelers might enjoy stops at Hang, Ngon xíu mại, Uyen pho, or Dalat Eden café, offering breakfast and coffee.

Ngo Quyen Hill also serves as a prime spot for mist and cloud enthusiasts.

Captured at 5:30 am on October 15, a photograph depicts Da Lat ensconced in clouds from the hilltop.

Located 4-5 km from the city center in ward 7, Ngo Quyen offers easier access compared to Do Phu. Despite its breathtaking scenery and being dubbed Da Lat’s heart, it remains less popular among tourists. Nonetheless, it’s one of Da Lat’s finest sunset viewpoints.

Thien Phuc Duc, the third location for autumn mist hunting in Da Lat, offers a different charm. Shot at 6 am on October 10, Thien Phuc Duc reveals the tranquility of mist-laden mornings.

The hill is approximately 6 km from the city center, and while the journey is deemed challenging by many travelers, the cool, serene atmosphere more than compensates.

Due to the later shooting time compared to other hills, the mist on Thien Phuc Duc has partially cleared, revealing its unique landscape.

The sunrise on Thien Phuc Duc offers views of the majestic Langbiang peak amid the lingering mist and surrounding pine forests.

Photographed from Thien Phuc Duc on October 10, Da Lat reveals itself as the mist slowly recedes.

“Waking up very early is essential to capturing the mist; once you’ve photographed the beauty, the effort feels worthwhile,” Thien reflects.

A barren hill with many grassy patches and pine trees, Thien Phuc Duc provides a perfect camping spot for adventurers chasing mists and sunrises.

As the sun rises, the mist lifts, revealing the lush green pine rows on Thien Phuc Duc, captured on October 10.

“To choose a place with a dawn that evokes beautiful and romantic feelings, I choose Da Lat,” says Thien.

Author: Phuong Anh Photos by Vu Ngoc Thien