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Mountains cover 75% of the land so the presence of passes in Vietnam is inevitable. A pass is a navigable route that allows travelers to cross over a mountain range or high-elevation barrier. These passes are crucial in connecting remote regions and enabling people to move across the rugged terrain.
Passes help connect to difficult mountainous regions. Photo: Chudu24h
Despite the difficulties, the lure of beauty on the passes catches travelers’ eyes. Testing oneself on dangerous roads and admiring rarely seen natural scenery is the feeling every intrepid explorer craves. In this post, Asia King Travell will bring you seven of the most awe-inspiring passes that Vietnam has to offer.
Let's explore the "Four Great Mountain Passes". These are the four country’s highest passes and all in the Northwest region. We'll start with O Quy Ho Pass.
A 50-kilometer journey over the mountain pass will be a challenging trip. Photo: Da Thanh Travel
The pass divides Lai Chau and Lao Cai Province at only 15 kilometers west of Sapa. It also holds the title of "Vietnam's longest mountain pass" with a length of 50 kilometers. It's safe to say that no adventurer would want to miss conquering O Quy Ho.
The scenery transforms from dramatic rock formations in Lai Chau to villages in Lao Cai when you run on the switchbacks and sheer cliffs,. Passing through, awaiting you at the summit is a resting station offering panoramic views of the majestic landscape. A hot cup of coffee amidst the clouds is surely a memorable experience.
They built impressive structures on the top of O Quy Ho Pass. Photo: Vietnam.vn
While the rewards are plentiful, conquering O Quy Ho is no easy feat. The narrow, winding road demands the utmost focus and skilled maneuvering. Almost everyone starts early to avoid crossing the pass at night. Nonetheless, this iconic pass is an absolute must for anyone seeking an unparalleled adventure.
Slicing through the rugged mountains of Yen Bai Province, Khau Pha Pass will test the mettle of any adventurer. At an elevation of nearly 1200 meters, visitors can journey through the four seasons in a day.
The name "Khau Pha" comes from the local language, meaning "Horn of Heaven". This name tells the pass’s specialty. When viewed from afar, it looks like a horn piercing the sky, veiled in mist.
Visit Yen Bai in September if you're looking to witness the breathtaking sight of golden terraced rice fields. Photo: Tracuuquyhoach
Dozens of hairpin bends and steep slopes throughout the pass make this one a challenger. Come around spring-summer to avoid slippery conditions. Once you've passed Khau Pha, the forest will treat you to rare species.
The name Pha Din meaning "where the earth meets the sky" perfectly captures the pass's lofty height. It marks the boundary between Dien Bien and Son La provinces stretching for 32 kilometers.
A poetic stop on Pha Din Pass. Photo: Nguoitaybac
The winding pass and natural scenery here have a strange hypnotic power. From a distance, roads look like a rope suspended between mountains. Narrow, tight hairpin turns require a steady hand on the wheel. At times, cliffs can add extra excitement (or terror, depending on your perspective).
What sets Pha Din Pass apart from the other three is its historical significance. In the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, it served as the vital land supply route for 8,000 militia. The French army bombed the route for 48 straight days and nights in an attempt to cut off the supply line. Today, the pass is recognized as a National Heritage Site.
Stretching into the mountains of Ha Giang Province, Ma Pi Leng Pass is a stunning feat. At around 1,500 meters, this 20 kilometers mountain road clings to the sheer cliffs, offering white-knuckle views of plunging valleys and ethnic villages.
The pass looks like a golden scarf draped across the mountain. Photo: Truyen hinh Ha Nam
Everything you admire along the way is not simply beautiful nature but truly masterpieces. Dong Van Karst Plateau running alongside the pass has been awarded UNESCO Global Geopark. The stunning views will captivate you and make you forget all about the arduous climb.
The best time to take on this epic mountain pass is during the summer from April to August when the skies are clearer. But even then, rapidly changing mountain weather can mean dealing with thick fog that shrouds the roads in mystery. Whenever you go, Ma Pi Leng Pass promises an unforgettable journey through dramatic highland regions.
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Farewell to the four majestic passes of Northwest, the others in the Central region also have an irresistible charm. At the beginning of the Annamite mountain range, we come to Ngang Pass between Ha Tinh and Quang Binh provinces.
Hoanh Son Quan relic site on Ngang Pass summit. Photo: Redsvn
Standing on Ngang Pass, visitors will see a breathtaking panorama of endless mountains. Hoanh Son Quan relic from the Nguyen Dynasty situated on the highest point. At the foot of the pass is the temple of Goddes Mother Lieu Hanh, a Vietnamese goddess who has descended to earth to help people. The pass's poetic beauty has inspired famous literary works.
Like other passes, it has mountains, forests, and skies, but Ngang Pass possesses a unique beauty. It's difficult to fully capture its beauty with words. You have to experience and admire it yourself to fully appreciate it.
Cutting through the Bach Ma mountain range, Hai Van Pass probably is a pin on the world travel map. At around 500 meters above sea level, this winding mountain road is one of the most beautiful coastal passes in the world.
The pass's name signifies the two most beautiful sights on the pass: the sea (Hai) and the clouds (Van). Photo: Vietnamnet
Throughout the 20-kilometer length of the pass, nature has gifted travelers with a landscape of majestic mountains on one side and an endless blue ocean on the other. On clear days, visitors can catch the view of Da Nang City, Son Tra Peninsula, and golden beaches.
But that's part of the thrill! The road clings dramatically to the mountainside, with sheer drop-offs that will get your heart racing. Stop at the numerous viewpoints to soak in the sweeping vistas of sky, sea, and mountains all around you. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction.
You can see Da Nang City clearly from Hai Van Pass. Photo: Vietnamnet
Although there is now a tunnel through the mountain and some parts are still quite rugged, anyone not in a hurry prefers to drive over Hai Van Pass to enjoy the scenery. Take it slow, watch for oncoming vehicles, then get ready for the best Vietnam offers to intrepid explorers.
The path to the south of beautiful Da Lat City is guarded by the fierce beast Bao Loc Pass. In just a 10-kilometer route, it has 108 curves, many sharp turns, and limited visibility. The pass is no walk in the park, though. The narrow road, barely wide enough for two vehicles, runs along a cliff. This is the ultimate test of driving skills.
Although challenging, Bao Loc Pass does not lack beautiful scenery. Photo: Me Phuot
However, many backpackers want to conquer the pass to admire the natural beauty. The higher you climb the pass, the more noticeable the temperature drop becomes. The vibrant flowers and mist of the Lam Vien Plateau add to the pass's enchanting allure for travelers.
The foot pass is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can go for a walk or bike ride to enjoy the fresh, wild mountain air. Additionally, some ethnic minority villages welcome tourists. Many people also visit the Ba Co Temple to pray for peace for the upcoming ride.
Proper vehicle maintenance is key to a smooth journey. Before setting off, you should carefully check the brake system, tires, and lights. Since the pass has many dangerous winding curves, you should carefully check your motorcycle or car and repair any damaged parts immediately.
Due to the high terrain, the weather on the pass changes quite suddenly. During the rainy season, landslides, thick fog, and slippery roads are common, reducing visibility. Besides choosing to travel during the dry summer months, you should check the weather forecast carefully at other times of the year. Avoid traveling if there are signs of rain.
Essential items for conquering a mountain pass. Photo: Travelgear
Not all passes have rest stops, so you should prepare drinking water, bread, and some snacks to satisfy your hunger. This will also help you recharge and replenish your energy to conquer the long journey ahead.
Vietnam has incredibly diverse landscapes, the passes we've explored in this article are just a small taste of the natural wonders that await intrepid travelers in this Southeast Asian gem. With the right preparation, these passes can give you lifetime memories. So, what are you waiting for? Contact Asia King Travel and plan a thrilling trip to Vietnam now!
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