Ma Pi Leng - The King of Passes in Ha Giang

 Ma Pi Leng - The King of Passes in Ha Giang

Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang is one of the "four great mountain passes" known for its challenging terrain in Vietnam. However, for adventurous young people who love exploration and experiences, it is always a must-visit destination at least once in a lifetime. So, how can you conquer it easily?

Where is Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang?

Located on National Highway 4C, in Pa Vi and Pai Lung communes, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province, Ma Pi Leng Pass is renowned as one of the four great mountain passes in Vietnam This winding and perilous route is highly famous in Ha Giang

Ma Pi Leng Pass is approximately 20 km long and sits at an altitude of around 1200m above sea level It serves as the main route connecting Ha Giang city, Dong Van, and Meo Vac town

When visiting Ma Pi Leng Pass, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking natural scenery of majestic mountains. Moreover, you can delve into the history of this pass, discovering many interesting facts.

Best Time to Conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Ha Giang is often likened to the "muse" of mountains and forests, with its gentle, pure, and peaceful beauty bestowed by nature. Therefore, travelers can conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass at any time of the year Specifically:

January-March: Cherry blossom season offers picturesque landscapes with romantic scenes and vibrant colors.

April: Khau Vai Love Market, a unique market held once a year, is for couples with unfinished love stories.

May: The pouring water season adds a sparkling touch to the region, a unique product of nature for the northwest.

September: The ripe rice season showcases stunning terraced fields with golden stair-like rice paddies.

October, November: Buckwheat flower season – a flower unique to the northwest.

December: Mustard flower season, where you can capture photos with blooming mustard flowers or even encounter white snowfall.

Means of Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass by Bus:

Typically, Daiichi buses depart from Hanoi Old Quarter to Ha Giang at 4 PM and 9 PM, providing flexibility for travelers to choose a suitable time for their journey.

Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass by Motorbike:

For a more adventurous trip exploring Ma Pi Leng Pass, you can ride a motorbike along two routes:

Route 1: From Hanoi, head towards Thang Long Bridge, then turn towards Viet Tri, Phu Tho, pass through Tuyen Quang, and arrive at Ha Giang.

Route 2: From Hanoi, go through Son Tay, straight to Trung Ha Bridge, then through Co Tiet to Phong Chau Bridge, continue to Phu Tho town, Doan Hung, then turn towards Tuyen Quang on National Highway 2 to reach Ha Giang.

The best way to avoid fatigue during the journey is to take a bus to Ha Giang and then rent a motorbike locally to conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass After arriving in Ha Giang, you can rent a motorbike, but keep in mind to choose a suitable type and let someone with a strong driving skill handle it. Don’t forget to bring a spare fuel canister and necessary tools for bike repair.

Essentials to Bring When Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Clothing:

In summer, wear cool and breathable clothes. Don’t forget long pants to protect against insects In winter, bring warm clothes, scarves, and gloves as temperatures can drop significantly at night.

Choose modest and easy-to-move-in clothing when conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass, as you’ll need to climb a lot Opt for lightweight and comfortable sports shoes.

Food:

As there are no food stalls on the pass, bring quick snacks and water to prevent hunger

Medication:

Always carry essential medications when on an adventure. Bring a small amount of fever-reducing medicine, anti-diarrhea medicine, and some first aid items, such as bandages, in case of emergencies.

Other Accessories:

For motorcycle trips, bring vehicle documents, reserve fuel (15l bottle), and bike repair tools (pump, tire opener, patch, adhesive) In winter, pack sufficient scarves, gloves, and warm clothes Choose lightweight down jackets to avoid bulkiness In summer, bring a thin jacket as the high-altitude climate can be chilly at night.

Must-Have Experiences on the Journey to Conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Boating on the Nho Que River:

Explore and experience boating on the Nho Que River through Tu San Gorge, the deepest gorge in Southeast Asia located under Ma Pi Leng Pass.

Conquer the Hills and Passes:

Famous ones include Ma Pi Leng Pass, 9 Khoanh Slope, Tham Ma Slope, Bac Sum Slope, and the Heaven’s Gate Pass

Discover Highland Culture through Famous Markets:

Check out the unique Khau Vai Love Market

Explore the renowned Dong Van Old Quarter

Visit Famous Landmarks:

Lung Cu Flagpole

Hmong King’s Palace


D
epending on the season, photograph Triangle Flower, Mustard Flower, Cherry Blossom, Pear Blossom, and Apricot Blossom – each season in Ha Giang offers a different flower spectacle.

What to Eat and Where to Stay when Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Local Cuisine at Ma Pi Leng Ha Giang:

When visiting Ma Pi Leng, don’t miss the opportunity to taste ethnic specialties such as thang co (a traditional dish), buffalo meat cooked on a stove, and lap xuong (Vietnamese sausage). Particularly, try the unique dish of grilled moss – it may sound strange, but once tasted, its unforgettable flavor will stay with you.

Accommodation Options when Conquering Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang:

Typically, people who conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass do so in a day trip However, if you wish to stay overnight to immerse yourself in nature and the mountains, homestays are available for this purpose

Come to Ha Giang now to enjoy the fantastic beauty of Ma Pi Leng Pass, and discover the additional charm of the S-shaped land. Refer to the 3-day, 2-night Ha Giang tour package for only 2,650,000 VND per person.