#1. Ma Pi Leng Pass
Ma Pi Leng Pass is hailed as one of the most spectacular mountain passes not only in Ha Giang but in the entire country of Vietnam. Situated along the road that connects Dong Van and Meo Vac, this pass offers a breathtaking experience with its dramatic landscape and awe-inspiring views. With steep cliffs that plunge into a deep river valley, traversing Ma Pi Leng Pass is a thrilling journey through the rugged beauty of the region.
#2. Tham Ma Pass
Tham Ma Pass, nestled between Ha Giang City and Dong Van, is a smaller yet nice looking mountain pass along the Ha Giang Loop. As you ascend this pass, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views on top of the pass. From here you can see the elegant S-shaped road that winds its way to the top. It’s not uncommon to encounter ethnic minority children walking along the pass, often carrying a basket of flowers on their back.
#3. Quan Ba Pass
Quan Ba Pass, also nicknamed “Heaven’s Gate,” is one of the first mountain passes you’ll encounter along the Ha Giang Loop when traveling from Ha Giang City. As you ascend this pass, you’ll reach a breathtaking viewpoint at the top, where you can take in the majestic scenery and enjoy a cup of coffee at the nearby café. Halfway down the pass, there is another viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the iconic Twin Mountains.
#4. Chin Khoanh Pass
Chin Khoanh Pass, also known as 9 Ramp or Chin Khoanh Ramp, is located on the route between Yen Minh and Dong Van District in Ha Giang. This pass offers picturesque views of a winding road that meanders through the majestic mountains. As you traverse this pass, you will be greeted by the captivating beauty of Sung La Valley, a stunning flower valley adorned with charming old Hmong villages.
#5. Lung Ho Pass
Lung Ho Pass, situated between Mau Due and Du Gia, is a significant highlight on the Ha Giang Loop. If you doing the loop in 3 days, this part will be on your last day when traveling from Meo Vac back to Ha Giang City. As you ascend the pass, you’ll come across a small coffee shop conveniently located halfway along the route, offering a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
The pass offers breathtaking views of the unique cone-shaped mountains, characteristic of the karst stone landscapes found in Vietnam and China. Additionally, the Mau Due and Du Gia areas are renowned for their picturesque rice fields, so take some time to explore this area.
#6. Ta Lang Pass
The Ta Lang Pass is a treacherous adjunct to the more famous Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang. This narrow, winding road descends very steep to a quaint village nestled by the Nho Que River, the place where you can embark on a scenic boat tour through the Ma Pi Leng canyon.
Renowned for its challenging conditions, including extremely sharp hairpin turns, the road is accessible only by motorbike and is recommended exclusively for highly experienced riders. Recognizing the allure and difficulty of the Ta Lang Pass, locals have created a specialized service, driving tourists down to the river village on the back of their motorbike for a modest fee. This allows even those lacking expert motorbike skills to experience the exhilarating descent and the beauty of the river below before being safely transported back up.
#7. Bac Sum Pass
Located closest to the town of Ha Giang, the Bac Sum Pass is your introductory climb into the majestic mountains on the Ha Giang Loop. As you wind up the pass, a specialized viewpoint offers various “check-in” props, mostly tailored for Vietnamese tourists looking for photo ops. It’s a convenient spot for a quick drink and a toilet break. If you’d rather keep moving, head towards the Quan Ba Pass where the vistas become increasingly stunning.
