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The Clay Tunnel, also known as the Sculpture Tunnel, is an open-air clay museum. Its general concept relates to recreating the ward area of Lam Dong Province, which was once known as Da Lat City. Let Asia King Travel guide you with insights and travel recommendations to make the most of your visit here.
The Clay Tunnel in Lam Dong Province is an open-air clay museum
In Lam Dong province, the Clay Tunnel has become one of the region’s most intriguing attractions. No matter which name people know it by, this site never fails to spark curiosity.
In terms of its origin, Mr. Trinh Ba Dung's clay project was inspired by Da Lat traditional architecture. To bring his idea to life, he started by relocating more than 50,000 cubic meters of soil. As a result, the contemporary clay tunnel stretches 1.2 kilometers and is considered among the longest in the world.
What makes this place even more remarkable is the construction material. After years of trying, Mr. Dung has successfully developed a formula that transformed red basalt soil into a building medium. It is strong enough to rival concrete, yet keeps the signature color of basalt soil. From this breakthrough, the Clay Tunnel was born, providing both artistry and sustainability in one landmark.
Measuring 1.2 kilometers, Clay Tunnel is considered the world’s longest clay tunnel
As you wander through the tunnel, you are going to embark on a journey that showcases how highland areas evolved. In the very first scenes, they depict Dr. Alexandre Yersin’s exploration of Lam Vien Plateau. Moving further, the clay gradually unfolds Da Lat’s milestones and some slices of local daily life.
The experience continues with Da Lat’s architectural replicas, each of which was sculpted with intricate detail. Toward the ending path, your journey shifts to modern times, with scenes of Tuyen Lam Lake, Love Valley, Lien Khuong Airport, and Da Lat Highways that symbolize a province stepping confidently into its bright future.
Read more: Da Lat Tour 3 days: Tranquility Escape
You can find Clay Tunnel inside Da Lat Star Tourist Area, in Xuan Huong - Da Lat Ward of Lam Dong Province. In fact, this destination sits in a quiet suburban corner; therefore, you are going to experience some tranquil moments on your way here.
Clay Tunnel is about 13 kilometers from the center of Lam Dong’s wards, and the trip usually takes no more than half an hour by motorbike or car.
There are many routes to reach the site. One common way takes you past Prenn Pass. Then you can follow To Hien Thanh Street, continue along Dong Da, An Binh, and eventually head onto Hoa Hong Street. After about 5.4 kilometers, take a right turn and keep moving straight for another 2.5 kilometers until the tunnel appears at the end.
Clay Tunnel lies roughly 13 kilometers away from the central wards of Lam Dong
For those who prefer comfort, booking a ride-hailing car from your hotel is also possible. However, keep in mind that getting back might be tricky as drivers are scarce in the area. At the same time, few are willing to travel such a long distance to pick up passengers for their return trip. Therefore, if you choose this option, plan ahead and make sure you have a reliable way back.
Clay Tunnel can be visited year-round, but the experience is especially great during dry season, from November to April. Under clear skies and mild sunshine, all clay sculptures appear more vivid than in any other season. The paths are also easier to take without any slippery ground.
If you come during rainy months, the tunnel still welcomes visitors, yet you may have to carry a raincoat and wear a pair of anti-slip sandals. Whether you choose dry season or the wetter months, arriving in the morning is often the best idea, as it gives you time to explore and enjoy cooler air before midday.
You can visit Clay Tunnel anytime, though it’s most enjoyable in the dry season
For just VND 120,000 per adult and VND 50,000 for children under 1.3 meters, you can step into a world where the highland spirit of Lam Dong is carved entirely from clay. Here, this region’s past and present are presented through detailed sculptures. Together, they form a miniature version of Lam Dong as well as tell their historic stories.
And to make your journey even more special, you can rent traditional costumes of ethnic groups such as the Chil, Lach, Co Ho, or Sre. Striking a pose in these colorful outfits against clay backdrop doesn’t just give you stunning photos, but also a way to connect with the land’s cultural roots.
With only VND 120,000, you can explore Lam Dong’s highland spirit fully sculpted in clay
One of the most captivating highlights inside Clay Tunnel is Infinity Lake. What would draw your attention are two massive sculptures of K’lang and H’Biang - two figures from Da Lat’s folklore. Moving on, you will notice that this lake is designed to create an “infinity” effect. Its water surface seems to blend perfectly with the horizon, and that’s how you are given an illusion of boundless space.
Like the eternal love of K’lang and H’Biang, the lake stretches on endlessly
In fact, this design carries a romantic meaning behind it: just like K’lang and H’Biang’s love, the lake appears without end. There are even rows of tall pine trees embracing the lake, which feel as if nature is protecting their love, too.
With that being said, Infinity Lake is an ideal spot for you to check-in. Your photo outcomes may look like you’ve stepped into a different world, one that only exists to celebrate romance and the charm of Lam Dong’s highlands.
Spanning 90 square meters, Red Basaltic House has a Vietnam map on the rooftop. You should expect that everything here is made from clay, even its furniture. These distinctive traits already brought Red Basaltic House a national record as the first house built from unburnt red basalt soil. In short, whenever you have a chance to visit Clay Tunnel, don’t forget to see this special house with your bare eyes.
On top of the Red Basaltic House lies a Vietnam map
Covid-19 Park was built during the peak of the pandemic. Beneath pine tree canopies, you will find clay sculptures of the virus itself and a 5K safety message. While the pandemic has passed, this installation is still here to remind us how united Vietnamese people were during difficult times.
Built at the height of the Covid-19 crisis, the park stands as a reminder of that time
In conclusion, Clay Tunnel is famous for its unique clay artworks. More than just an attraction, a visit to Clay Tunnel would help you connect with the land’s historic identity as it converts a piece of Da Lat into your mind. So don’t hesitate any longer, let Asia King Travel take you there and turn your trip into something worth telling.
Read more: Da Lat Tour 2 Days: A Dreamy Escape to the Highlands
