Four Legendary Mountain Passes That Thrill Adventure Seekers

In the hearts of Vietnamese adventure enthusiasts, four mountain passes have become legendary for their treacherous terrain and breathtaking beauty. Known as the “Tứ đại đỉnh đèo” (Four Great Passes), these routes captivate travelers looking for unforgettable journeys.

1. Ma Pi Leng Pass (Hà Giang)

This perilous pass stretches about 20 km, traversing the Ma Pi Leng mountain at 2,000 meters above sea level, connecting Mèo Vạc and Đồng Văn. The winding road is reminiscent of a serpent slithering from peak to peak.

In the local Hmong language, Ma Pi Leng translates to “horse’s nose,” reflecting the steepness of the mountain—so treacherous that horses would supposedly stop breathing when crossing it.

The pass lies along the Happiness Road, built between 1959 and 1965 by thousands of young volunteers from 16 ethnic groups across 8 northern provinces. For 11 months, workers suspended themselves from ropes along cliffs to complete this engineering marvel.

Since 2009, the Ma Pi Leng area has been recognized as a national scenic site. The pass is celebrated for its unique geological features and landscapes, offering spectacular panoramic views. Below, the Nho Quế River gorge is one of the most striking tectonic valleys in Vietnam.

2. O Quy Ho Pass

Stretching nearly 50 km, O Quy Ho Pass holds the title of the longest pass in northern Vietnam and is one of the most challenging routes to traverse. It cuts across the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, connecting Lào Cai and Lai Châu provinces, with the summit marking the boundary between the two at 2,000 meters.

The name O Quy Ho comes from the mournful cry of a bird, linked to a local love legend. It is also called Hoang Lien Pass (for the mountain range it traverses) or Cloud Pass, as the summit is often shrouded in mist.

The peak, known as Heaven’s Gate, can be covered in snow during colder months. The pass was once infamous for its dangers, with legends of mystical tigers ambushing travelers. Today, with improved roads, it has become a popular route for visitors.

3. Pha Đin Pass

Pha Đin Pass spans 32 km along National Highway 6, passing through Phỏng Lái (Sơn La Province) and Tỏa Tình (Điện Biên Province), with the highest point at 1,648 meters. The name Pha Đin comes from the Thai language, meaning “Heaven and Earth,” symbolizing a meeting point between the sky and the ground.

This pass is renowned not only for its perilous curves but also for its mesmerizing scenery. The road is often shrouded in mist, and small villages dot the lower slopes. However, as travelers near the summit, the villages disappear, leaving only the vast sky and towering mountains.

In recent years, National Highway 6 has been upgraded, and a bypass was built along the foothills at 1,000 meters, diverting traffic from the original Pha Đin Pass. As a result, the pass has become a favorite for adventure seekers seeking an unspoiled experience.

4. Khau Phạ Pass

The longest pass along National Highway 32, Khau Phạ Pass spans over 30 km and is one of Vietnam’s steepest and most winding mountain roads. It connects Văn Chấn and Mù Cang Chải districts in Yên Bái Province, passing iconic destinations like La Pán Tẩn, Tú Lệ, and Chế Cu Nha.

The name Khau Phạ means “Horn of Heaven” in the Thai language, referring to the peaks that seem to pierce the sky. The view from the pass is most stunning during harvest season in September and October, when the terraced rice fields in Tú Lệ turn golden.

Beyond the terraced fields, the area is also home to ancient forests that harbor rare plants and animals, preserving the region’s natural beauty. The pass is a favorite destination for thrill-seekers who come to marvel at the vibrant landscape.

These four iconic passes offer not only hair-raising adventure but also spectacular views, making them a must-see for those looking to explore Vietnam’s majestic mountains.