Khau Pha Pass

With its thrilling turns and stunning mountain vistas, Khau Pha remains a favorite destination for adventure seekers, young explorers, and both professional and amateur climbers alike each year.

Location

Situated atop Mu Cang Chai in Yen Bai Province, the name Khau Pha translates to "Horn of Heaven" in Thai, due to the peaks that emerge like horns from a sea of clouds. Khau Pha Pass stretches approximately 30 kilometers, reaching an elevation of around 1,200 meters above sea level. There’s nothing quite like embarking on a motorbike ride along this remote pass, leading you to some of the most spectacular mountain sceneries you will encounter during your travels.

Khau Pha Pass - Photo: dangerousroute.org

How to Get There

By Motorbike or Car

• From the city center of Hanoi, take National Highway 32 towards Phu Tho Province. Continue following the road through Tan Son Phu until you reach Nghia Lo commune to connect to Khau Pha Pass.
• From Yen Bai city, head northwest along Highway 32 for about 5 hours, passing through Tu Le commune until Khau Pha Pass comes into view.

By Bus

• Travel to Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations in Hanoi to catch a bus to Yen Bai Province.
• Numerous bus trips are available daily from Hanoi to Nghia Lo, providing flexibility in choosing a departure time that suits your schedule.
• Ticket prices range from approximately 150,000 to 400,000 VND for a one-way journey.

What to Do

Sightseeing at Mu Cang Chai

Photo: Nguyenn.anhtuan

The first and foremost thrill when conquering Khau Pha Pass is the opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of northern Vietnam. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the expansive rice terraces, witness the vibrant lives and agricultural activities of local ethnic communities, including the Thai and Hmong people residing in the valleys below.

Day-trippers can also explore Che Cu Nha commune, home to the Mong ethnic group. The best times to visit the pass are during sunrise and sunset to fully appreciate the stunning blend of cultural and natural beauty.

Exploring the Thrilling Khau Pha Route

An exhilarating experience awaiting adventure seekers is navigating one of the most challenging mountain routes in the Northwest. Guests should be prepared to step out of their comfort zones to face the natural elements while capturing the majestic sights that this area has to offer.

Please ensure you are in good health to ride a motorbike throughout the day and tackle difficult terrains. Essential gear includes food, mosquito repellent, a compact first-aid kit, sunscreen, and appropriate warm clothing for this mountainous environment.

Paragliding

Paragliding in Khau Pha - Photo: Instagram @le.thu.phuong

At the summit of the pass, visitors can take advantage of paragliding services led by experienced guides from providers such as Vietwings Ha Noi, Sai Gon Paragliding, and Tau Bac Paragliding. Reservations may be required 1-2 months in advance.

Fees for this adventure can reach up to 1,500,000 VND, which includes paragliding flights, meals, and accommodations.

Note: This activity may not be suitable for individuals with poor health conditions or heart issues.

What to Eat

Five-color sticky rice, a specialty of Yen Bai - Photo: cet.edu.vn

A local delicacy to sample in Khau Pha is grilled boar, known for its tender, lean meat marinated with anise and wrapped in fresh dong leaves before being grilled over charcoal.

Another must-try dish is the seasonal sticky rice from Tu Le, known as five-color sticky rice, which incorporates forest herbs for a delectably unique flavor, often enjoyed with sweet peanut salt. These two dishes are guaranteed to delight even the most discerning pallets and provide warmth in the cool highland temperatures.

Other notable specialty dishes include apple cider, salted-fried crab, Mu Cang Chai sausages, and the salmon from Tu Le Commune, among others.

When to Visit

Wet Season: May and June

Travelers often choose this period to witness the summer rains, as they pour down the mountains, filling the terraces in preparation for the new crop season.

Ripe Rice Season: September and October

Visitors to Khau Pha during this time can witness the enchanting transformation of the terraced fields, as they shift from lush green to a golden hue when the rice is ripe.

Useful Information