Ma Pi Leng Pass is one of the “four great passes” of Vietnam. Here, visitors can not only experience winding and dangerous roads but also admire the majestic and beautiful natural picture. In this article, let Zing Home Ha Giang explore this legendary road to understand more about the historical value, cultural beauty, and poetic natural landscape here.
1. Overview of Ma Pi Leng Pass
1.1 Geographic location
Ma Pi Leng Pass is located on Highway 4C, Pa Vi and Pai Lung communes, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province. This pass connects Dong Van and Meo Vac districts, running along Hanh Phuc Road – a traffic wonder built by thousands of young volunteers in the 1960s. With an altitude of about 1,200 meters above water level sea and about 20km long, Ma Pi Leng Pass is home to majestic natural landscapes, attracting thousands of tourists each year.
1.2 Name History
Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang is known as one of the most dangerous slopes in the Northern mountains. The special thing is that when you come here, you will admire the majestic natural landscape. Besides, you have the opportunity to hear extremely interesting miracle stories about this pass. In fact, in the H’mong language, Ma Pi Leng means “horse’s nose“. This name evokes the image of a steep, dangerous pass that even horses can’t cross. However, it is this unique terrain that has created a strange attraction, making Ma Pi Leng famous on the tourist map of Vietnam.
Many travelers passing through here could not know that this road on the winding terrain was built by 1,300 young volunteers and 1,000 civil servants of 16 ethnic groups in the mountainous areas of our country. It took 11 years to complete.
2. Top things to do on Ma Pi Leng pass
2.1 Conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass
There is nothing better than the feeling of driving a motorbike or car by yourself. Overcoming a distance of about 20 km along with a mountain pass with many winding turns, Ma Pi Leng will be one of the places that you will see. It takes the most effort to conquer. The landscape on both sides of the road is a perfect combination of majestic mountains, romantic clouds, and the blue Nho Que river. In particular, from the top of the pass, you can admire the vast panorama of nature, creating an unforgettable moment.
2.2 Take a boat trip on the Nho Que River
One of the most unique experiences here is rowing on the Nho Que river. Nho Que River bends along the majestic pass, a place you cannot miss during your trip to Ha Giang. Sitting on a motorboat, you will be able to float down the emerald green water, listening to the sound of gurgling water, bringing a feeling of peace but no less majestic. Boat ticket prices range from 100,000 – 120,000 VND/person, each trip lasts 30 – 45 minutes.
2.3 Camping on white cliffs
camping area on the white cliff is attracting more and more tourists because of its special terrain, which is both wild and charming. Many tourists not only come to trek to conquer the white cliffs but also decide to try camping overnight here. From up here we can look straight down at the Nho Que River below along with the overlapping Ma Pi Leng pass. White Cliffs are an ideal camping location for those who love to explore nature. In the evening you can admire the starry sky and enjoy the brilliant sunrise in the early morning. However, please prepare carefully to ensure safety and maintain environmental hygiene.
2.4 Visit ethnic villages
The villages of the H’Mong, Dao, and Lo Lo people near the pass are where you can explore local culture. Take time to chat with people, visit traditional stilt houses, and experience daily activities such as weaving and growing rice.
2.5 Enjoy local cuisine
Coming to Ma Pi Leng Pass, you will have the opportunity to enjoy dishes with local culinary flavors, prepared by indigenous people. You can enjoy some dishes such as Dried buffalo meat, Thang Co, Au Tau porridge, sour pho, mint honey, bamboo-tube rice, etc. These dishes are not only delicious but also imbued with the flavors of the Northwest mountains and forests, promising to satisfy any picky diner.
3. Experience conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass
3.1 Ideal time
According to Zing Home Ha Giang’s travel experience, the most ideal time to conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass is from January to March every year. This is the season when plum blossoms, peach blossoms, and mustard flowers bloom, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. April is the season of Khau Vai love markets, and September is the season of ripe rice on Hoang Su Phi. By November – December, buckwheat flowers cover the whole world. Besides, these are the times when the weather is cool, with little rain, ideal for sightseeing and exploration activities.
3.2 Transportation
Easy Rider
If you are not confident in driving, hire an Easy Rider – professional drivers who are familiar with the terrain. The easy riders will control the motorbike while you sit back and admire the scenery along the way. Easy riders are not only knowledgeable about the terrain, but they also have cultural knowledge. They not only ensure your safety but also help you understand more about the culture and people here.
Drive a motorbike yourself
Self-driving a motorbike is the ideal choice for those who love freedom and have good driving ability. Self-driving will help you be flexible in deciding the route, bringing all kinds of emotions from praying when overcoming dangerous passes or feeling happy when meeting local people. However, don’t forget to check the car thoroughly before the trip to ensure safety.
Private car
If traveling in a group or family, a private car is the ideal means of transportation. Conquering Ha Giang Loop by car, you will have a private and comfortable space. You will not have to jostle or follow a fixed schedule on public transportation. Besides, Exploring Ha Giang Loop by private car will help you easily reach more remote locations and more conveniently than by motorbike. In addition, you can stop anywhere to admire beautiful scenery or do some sightseeing.
3.3 Accommodation
The homestay system in Dong Van and Meo Vac is very diverse, from affordable motels to accommodations with local style. Some outstanding suggestions are Lo Lo Homestay, Bui Homestay, and Auberge de Meo Vac.
3.4 Items to bring when exploring Ma Pi Leng Pass
- Clothing, and accessories: When traveling to Ha Giang, you should pack lightweight, flexible, and sporty items that will not be hindered but still ensure good heat retention such as thermal shirts, and jackets because the weather at night can be cold.
- Electronic devices: Electronic devices such as cameras, phones, and selfie sticks will help you save the most beautiful moments and memories of Ha Giang.
- Cash: you should prepare some cash because there are some places in Ha Giang that do not accept bank transfers.
- Medical box: Ha Giang has difficult roads and harsh weather, so it is easy to get sick or injured. Tourists should bring bandages, cold medicine, fever reducer, insect spray, anti-motion sickness medicine, etc. in their luggage.
- Sports shoes: Because the terrain in Ha Giang is mainly mountainous, some places are quite slippery, so bringing sports shoes is most appropriate.
- Stored food and drinks: Many times when traveling long distances, you will feel tired and lose strength. At this time, stored food will help you recharge your spirit and health after a long and standard journey. prepare for the journey ahead.
Ma Pi Leng Pass is not only a symbol of majestic nature but also a place for you to connect with the culture and people of the highlands. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply want to find a place to relax, Ma Pi Leng will definitely bring you unforgettable experiences. For more information and travel tips in Ha Giang, please visit the Zing Home Ha Giang website.
