In the 1930s, a rail service was inaugurated in the then French colony from Dalat to Thap Cham (Phan Rang), on Vietnam's coast between Nha Trang and Phan Thiet. By the late 1960s, war forced the closure of the route. It fell into further disrepair after the communist takeover in 1975, when the rail lines were ripped and used on the main Hanoi to Saigon route. Plans to rebuild the Phan Rang service have long been discussed.
Dalat Railway station is one of the most interesting pieces of architecture from French colonial times and forms a collection of unique buildings in Dalat. While it’s predominantly art deco in style, it includes influences from local minority communal houses. Many original features remain and there's a lovely old steam train parked at the station as well.
The 7km ride to Trai Mat operates several times a day (check at the station for current schedules) It's an enjoyable if unspectacular journey. A visit to Linh Phuoc Pagoda at Trai Mat is also worthwhile.
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