Prenn Pass Reopens After Landslides: Da Lat’s Mountain Gateway Faces Temporary Fix Amid Ongoing Rainstorms

Published on November 25, 2025

Following days of disruption due to severe landslides and road damage, Prenn Pass, one of the most important routes connecting the Central Highlands city of Da Lat with the rest of Vietnam, has been reopened. The 7.27 km pass, which connects National Highway 20 to Da Lat, was badly affected by the bad weather that has been plaguing the area lately. The mountain road was closed to traffic after several devastating landslides, which presented serious difficulties for people who depended on it to get to the city.

Although repairs have been completed and traffic has been permitted to resume, officials are advising drivers to exercise caution as the situation is still unstable. The reopening is a noteworthy development because the pass has grown to be a vital connection for both locals and visitors visiting Da Lat. However, because of the persistent weather, the road’s stability is still precarious, and the measures implemented are only temporary.

Temporary Fix: How Authorities Have Restored Access to Prenn Pass

Following the devastating landslides that began on November 17, the authorities in Lam Dong Province have worked tirelessly to restore the vital route. Contractors have reinforced the damaged slopes and treated the cracked and sinking sections of the road to allow vehicles to pass through. The road was partially restored and reopened at 1 p.m. on November 25, though with restrictions in place. Trucks and heavy vehicles remain prohibited from using the pass as a precautionary measure to prevent further damage.

The authorities have confirmed that the repairs carried out are not permanent solutions but temporary fixes to alleviate the disruption. While the road surface has been patched up enough for vehicles to pass, the situation is still considered fragile. Engineers have stressed that more substantial repairs will be needed to ensure the long-term safety and stability of the pass. This underscores the difficulty of maintaining infrastructure in the face of unpredictable weather patterns in mountainous areas.

The Ongoing Threat of Heavy Rain and Its Effect on Travel

The main concern for authorities is the continued threat posed by heavy rain and stormy conditions across the region. The Central Highlands, including Da Lat, have been experiencing relentless rainfall, which has only exacerbated the challenges already facing the area’s road network. As the rain continues, the already unstable terrain remains prone to further landslides, and the damage to the pass could escalate.

Drivers have been urged to avoid using Prenn Pass during heavy rain, at night, or in dense fog. The risk of further land subsidence and road fractures remains high. Authorities have recommended that those who must travel on the pass take extra caution by slowing down, carefully monitoring the road surface, and adhering to any traffic diversions that may be in place. This is particularly important for those unfamiliar with the road conditions or those attempting to drive through during adverse weather.

Broader Infrastructure Challenges in the Region

The issues with Prenn Pass are not isolated. Several other key routes leading to Da Lat have also been severely affected by the heavy rains. Mimosa Pass, another major entry point to the city, has suffered significant damage, with a 70-meter stretch of the road collapsing to a depth of nearly 40 meters. Similarly, National Highway 20, which runs through D’ran Pass, has experienced extensive cracking and subsidence, further complicating travel to and from Da Lat.

In addition to the road issues surrounding Prenn Pass, Khanh Le Pass, a crucial link between Da Lat and Nha Trang, has also been impacted by fresh landslides. These developments have created considerable challenges for locals and tourists alike, particularly as the region’s popular travel destinations remain accessible primarily through these mountain roads.

For many who depend on these routes to travel to and from Da Lat, the disruption has had significant economic implications. Local businesses and tourism in the city, which relies heavily on the flow of visitors, have been affected by the uncertainty surrounding travel conditions. The situation underscores the importance of ongoing investment in infrastructure and improved weather forecasting to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters in the future.

The Restoration of Prenn Pass: A Sign of Hope

Despite the ongoing challenges, the reopening of Prenn Pass offers a glimmer of hope for those eager to visit Da Lat or return home. The city, famous for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and unique French colonial architecture, remains a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. As the repairs continue and the region braces for further rainfall, the reopening of the pass allows for some sense of normality to return.

While the temporary fix allows vehicles to travel through, it also highlights the urgent need for more sustainable solutions. Given the increasing frequency of severe weather events in the region, further investment is required to fortify roadways and prevent such disruptions in the future. The current situation offers an important reminder of the fragility of infrastructure in the face of nature’s power and the need for long-term planning to ensure the safety and accessibility of vital routes like Prenn Pass.

Travel Tips: What Tourists Should Know

For those planning to visit Da Lat in the coming weeks, it is important to be aware of the current travel conditions and the risks associated with travelling through the region. The authorities are urging all drivers to be cautious and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Those planning to travel to Da Lat should stay informed about the latest road conditions and advisories issued by local authorities, especially if travelling during periods of heavy rain or fog.

It is also advisable to consider alternative routes or travel times to avoid encountering road closures or delays. Travellers should ensure that their vehicles are in good condition and equipped for the challenging mountain roads. Additionally, it is wise to bring along any necessary supplies, such as food, water, and a fully charged phone, in case of any unexpected delays.

The Future of Da Lat’s Mountain Roadways

The ongoing issues with Prenn Pass and other mountain routes to Da Lat are a reminder of the pressing need for improved infrastructure in the Central Highlands. While temporary fixes may offer immediate relief, it is essential that long-term solutions be developed to strengthen the region’s road network. This will not only improve safety but also enhance the tourism experience for visitors who flock to Da Lat for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

The local government and national authorities are expected to continue working on repairing and fortifying the region’s roads, particularly in light of the growing impacts of climate change. Efforts to better manage rainwater, strengthen roads against landslides, and develop early warning systems for extreme weather events will be critical in preventing future disruptions.

A Community United in Overcoming Adversity

Prenn Pass’s reopening is evidence of the Da Lat people’s and the authorities’ tenacity. The combined efforts of contractors, engineers, and local authorities offer hope for the future, even though the road is still brittle and continuous repairs are required. In order to safeguard the area from the constant threat of landslides and extreme weather, the long-term focus must continue to be on developing stronger, more resilient infrastructure, even though the temporary solution has allowed the city to start recovering from the disruption.

The country’s eyes are on Da Lat as the Central Highlands continue to rain, hoping for a speedy recovery and long-term fixes to the problems with the city’s road system.