Da Lat’s Sculpture Tunnel, also known as the Clay Tunnel, stands as a remarkable architectural wonder, contributing to the city’s unique charm. Created from meticulously crafted clay structures, this destination has emerged as a top tourist spot, drawing visitors both locally and internationally.
Introduction to Da Lat’s Sculpture Tunnel
This site, commonly referred to as the Sculpture Tunnel or the Clay Tunnel, ranks among the top 10 must-visit attractions in Đà Lạt. It’s recognized for its extensive collection of clay sculptures, making it the world’s longest clay tunnel. The place showcases various national record-breaking structures crafted from clay.
Location and Accessibility
Situated on the outskirts of Da Lat, the Sculpture Tunnel offers an ideal destination for families seeking historical insights into the city’s formation. Visitors here not only get a glimpse of Da Lat’s history but also marvel at its unique architectural facets.
The tunnel is located in Ward 4 of Da Lat, amidst stunning natural landscapes of mountains and valleys. It’s conveniently accessible from the Tuyen Lam Lake direction and the Truc Lam Zen Monastery.
Ticket Prices
For those planning a visit, here are the current ticket prices:
- Adult entry fee: 120,000 VND per person.
- Children’s entry fee: 50,000 VND per person.
Additionally, group rates might be available upon inquiry at the ticket counter for larger parties.
Operating Hours
Da Lat’s Sculpture Tunnel welcomes visitors every day, opening at 7:30 AM and closing at 5:00 PM. This schedule remains consistent throughout the week, ensuring travelers have ample time to explore this unique attraction.
Highlights and Features
When exploring the Sculpture Tunnel, visitors are treated to an array of fascinating features:
- Intricately Sculpted Clay Art: The tunnel boasts various clay sculptures, showcasing the exceptional artistic talent that transforms simple clay into captivating forms and figures. Notably, the largest clay house in Vietnam stands here, complete with a massive map of the country on its roof.
- Historical Significance: The tunnel’s construction, initiated in 2010, commemorates Da Lat’s rich history. It traces the city’s evolution from its humble beginnings to its current vibrant status, displaying landmarks and iconic buildings within its clay walls.
- Architectural Marvels: Divided into two main themes, the tunnel recreates the historical landscape of Đà Lạt, featuring prominent landmarks and cultural heritage sites. Moreover, it offers a glimpse into the city’s futuristic architecture, depicting new, innovative structures envisioned for Da Lat’s future.
Getting There
Travelers can choose between two routes:
- Via the Dinh Dai-Bao direction, approximately 13km from Da Lat’s central market. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes by car. Follow Nguyen Van Cu -> Ba Trieu -> Tran Phu -> Le Hong Phong -> Trieu Viet Vuong -> Tran Thanh Tong to reach the Sculpture Tunnel.
- Descend from the mountain pass towards the Sculpture Tunnel. This route is easier but slightly farther from the city center.
Nearby Attractions
Once you’ve explored the Sculpture Tunnel, consider visiting nearby attractions such as Tuyen Lam Lake, Truc Lam Zen Monastery, the Third Palace of King Bao Dai, Da Lat Cable Car – Robin Hill, Datanla Waterfall, and the Ghostly Head Pass.