With the rugged terrain and the magnificent scenery, Ma Pi Leng Pass is one of “Four Great Passes” in the Northwest Region of Vietnam (along with O Quy Ho Pass, Pha Din Pass, and Khau Pha Pass). This is the most anticipated place to conquer of many backpackers once travelling to Ha Giang Province.
Ma Pi Leng pass is the name of the most craggy mountain pass in Vietnam. It belongs to the territory of Ha Giang Province with the length of approximately 20 kilometers. Ma Pi Leng Pass is a part of Happiness Road connecting Ha Giang City, Dong Van District, and Meo Vac Town. The pass winds its way among towering cliffs and passes through Ma Pi Leng Peak at the altitude of 2,000 meters. Standing on the top of Ma Pi Leng Pass and looking down, tourists can see the majestic abyss created by the distance between the pass and Nho Que River.

Ma Pi Leng pass is not the longest pass in Ha Giang but the most rugged mountain pass in the northern mountainous region. It is often considered as the “King” of Vietnam passes. According to Quan Thoai language, Ma Pi Leng pass literally means nasal bridge of a horse. However, in a figurative sense, this name refers to the most dangerous and craggy level that every horse may stop breathing when going though. The process of constructing Ma Pi Leng Pass faced many difficulties. It took nearly two years to build this 20-kilometer rugged pass. Accordingly, 17 youths in a suicide squad were hung on rocky and dangerous cliffs to chisel into the stones by manual means. Few of them died when carrying out the duty. To commemorate these people, a stone stele was built to record events happening in the pass construction.
The rugged terrain, the sharp and dangerous bends, the deep abyss, and the spectacular and unspoiled scenery will be an undeniable invitation to backpackers who love adventure travel and desire to conquer big challenges. After passing through the dangerous pass, tourists will set foot on the top of Ma Pi Leng pass. The wonderful feeling will come to you when you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the tranquil and beautiful Nho Que River, adore the majestic and magnificent beauty of mountains and forests, breathe truly fresh and cool air, and first-hand witness a lively natural painting with full of colors. So, why do you still hesitate to come and feel one of “Four Great Pass” in Vietnam?

Other attractions in Northeast Vietnam: Ba Be National Park; Ban Gioc Waterfall; Dong Van Karst Plateau; Hoang Su Phi; Lung Cu Flag Tower; Meo Vac Town