Da Lat Clay Tunnels is located a good 30 - 40 min scooter ride out of town. If you don't have your own transport, it would be a good idea to arrange private transport since the Clay Tunnel is slightly out of the way. I've provided some Klook listings below for consideration if you're looking for transport options. I spent around 1h 30mins exploring the area, but I'd suggest setting aside around 2 hours if you're one to take many photos.
Take note that if you're riding over to Clay Tunnels, you'd have to ride out of Da Lat town. The roads along the way are typically bendy and windy so take extra precaution. There are no street lights on the road when out of town as well, so be prepared for that if your journey extends past sunset.
The Clay Tunnel is known for its vast range of man-made sculptures, where artistic exhibitions are made out of clay. The Clay Tunnel actually represents the history of Da Lat through two periods - Before and after 1893. For additional info, check out this post. The Clay Tunnel is an architectural gem for sure with numerous spots for photo taking amidst the picturesque surroundings. As of 2024, admission costs VND 60,000 for adults and VND 30,000 for children under 1.3m tall.
A section of Da Lat Clay Tunnels
The sculptures are truly one to marvel at - It's baffling to think about the amount of effort and time needed to create just a single piece, let alone the entire park. From individual exhibits of animals to huge structures mimicking representations of landmarks like Da Lat Railway station or Langbiang mountain, there is something to see in every corner of the Clay Tunnel. Picture dump:
Intricate display of clay animals and a clay model of a train from Da Lat railway station
Clay humans with primeape-like features
The highlight was probably this grand structure of 2 human faces looking at each other, located at the Infinity Lake section of the park. It is probably the most popular, so expect a queue if you want to get a good shot! I got my own style captured below:
Many ways to get a shot here
In fact, the a better way to get a shot of this (compared to mine) would be to do it like the 2 ladies in the background above - The photographer stays at the photo taking spot while the model runs a few meters around the sides of the sculpture, ending up at a standing platform on the other side. Besides, I had to risk getting wet getting up to this rock for the photo, and eventually had to make my way back to the pavement without falling into the pond.
To sum it up, the clay tunnels is worth a visit if you have some time to spare while in Da Lat, considering that it requires some travel time to visit this place. Still, I do think it's worthwhile to check this place out and admire the man-made sculptures put in place for tourists.
