Thung Khe Pass: Your Gateway to Vietnam’s Natural Wonders

This little gem is tucked away in Northern Vietnam; trust me, it’s a place you won’t want to miss. Imagine cruising down a road resembling a giant, slithering snake carved into the mountains.

 On one side, cliffs rise like high mountains, their faces shaped with wind and time. Below, a valley unfolds like a green carpet sprinkled with tiny villages. That, my friend, is Thung Khe Pass in a nutshell.

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A Splash of White

When the sunlight hits them just right, they look glowing. It’s like driving through a scene from a fantasy movie. 

You’ll want to stop every few minutes to take pictures, and I say go for it! You’ll need those photos to prove to your friends that places like this exist.

The Geological Marvel

The white rocks of Thung Khe Pass are composed of limestone. As the Earth’s tectonic plates shifted and collided, these ancient seabeds were thrust upward to form the stunning cliffs we see today.

Environmental Impact

While the white cliffs of Thung Khe Pass are undoubtedly beautiful, it’s important to appreciate them responsibly. The limestone is fragile and can be damaged by excessive handling or vandalism. 

Visitors should avoid climbing on the rocks or removing pieces of limestone as souvenirs.

Legends and Lore

Some legends claim that the cliffs are the remains of extinct giants that previously roamed the area and whose bones gradually turned to stone over centuries making it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Vietnam.

According to other legends, spirits reside in the cliffs, watching over and defending the pass. Even though these tales might only be myths, they still add mystery to the 

captivating environment.

Picture Perfect

If you’re into photography, Thung Khe Pass is a veritable goldmine. The combination of white cliffs, green valleys, misty mountains, and the occasional rainbow will have you snapping pictures left and right.

Pro tip: make sure your camera or phone is fully charged before you set off. You’ll be taking more photos than you can count!

The Ideal Time for Photography

Morning Glory: Early morning is a fantastic time to capture the pass. The rising sun adds a gentle glow to the entire landscape, creating perfect conditions for photography.

Capturing the Cliffs: The white limestone cliffs of Thung Khe Pass are a standout feature and deserve special attention. To capture their beauty effectively:

Contrast with the Sky: Position yourself so the cliffs contrast against the sky. A deep blue sky or even a cloudy one can make the white rocks pop.

Include Foreground Elements: Adding elements like a winding road, local flora, or a person can provide scale and depth to your photos, making the cliffs look even more impressive.

Different Angles: Don’t just stick to one perspective. Move around and explore dffierent angles to find the most striking compositions. 

How to Reach Thung Khe Pass

From Hanoi: The most common starting point is Hanoi, which is about 140 km away from Thung Khe Pass. You can rent a car, hire a taxi, or take a bus. The drive takes around 4 hours.

Bus: There are regular bus services from Hanoi to Mai Chau, a town near Thung Khe Pass. Once in Mai Chau, you can hire a taxi or motorbike to reach the pass.

Motorbike: For the adventurous, renting a motorbike in Hanoi and riding to Thung Khe Pass can be an exhilarating experience. The route via QL6 is scenic but be prepared for some challenging sections.

From Mai Chau: Thung Khe Pass is just about 15 km from Mai Chau, making it a short trip by taxi or motorbike.

By Train: While there is no direct train to Thung Khe Pass, you can take a train from Hanoi to Hoa Binh, then continue by bus or taxi to Mai Chau and onward to the pass.

Best Time to Visit

Autumn (September to November): This is arguably the best time to visit Vietnam’s Thung Khe Pass, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant surroundings.

Things to Do at Thung Khe Pass

1. Scenic Drive:

Enjoy the drive through the pass with its winding roads, stunning views, and changing landscapes.

2. Photography:

Capture the breathtaking views, especially the white limestone cliffs and misty mountains. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times for photography.

3. Local Markets:

Visit the small roadside markets.  Try traditional Vietnamese food like grilled corn, sticky rice, and fresh fruits. It’s a great way to experience local culture.

 4. Hiking:

Explore the surrounding areas on foot. There are numerous trails that offer spectacular views of the valleys and mountains.

5. Relax and Reflect:

Take a moment to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the pass. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for meditation or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Places to Explore Nearby

1. Mai Chau:

Just a short distance from Thung Khe Pass, Mai Chau is a serene valley known for its lush rice paddies and traditional stilt houses. It’s a great place to experience local culture and hospitality.

Activities: Cycling through the rice fields, visiting local villages, and enjoying traditional dance performances.

2. Pu Luong Nature Reserve:

Located about 50 km from Thung Khe Pass, Pu Luong  is a stunning nature reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna, terraced rice fields, and ethnic Thai villages.

Activities: Trekking, exploring caves, and visiting the waterwheels of the local villages.

3. Moc Chau:

A bit further away (around 70 km from Thung Khe Pass), Moc Chau is famous for its tea plantations, flower fields, and cool climate.

Activities: Visit the Dai Yem Waterfall, explore the pine forests of Ang Village, and see the heart-shaped tea hill.

4. Hoa Binh:

This provincial capital is known for the Hoa Binh Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Vietnam. It’s about 50 km from Thung Khe Pass.

Activities: Boat tours on the Da River, visiting the Hoa Binh Museum, and exploring the Muong cultural area.

5. Ba Khan:

Located near Mai Chau, Ba Khan is a hidden gem with beautiful landscapes, including tranquil lakes and limestone mountains.

Activities: Boating on Ba Khan Lake, hiking, and enjoying the peaceful scenery.

The Food Scene of Thung Khe Pass and Surrounding Areas

Exploring the food scene around Thung Khe Pass is a delightful adventure in itself. Northern Vietnam, particularly the Hoa Binh Province, is known for its delicious and unique cuisine that reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity. 

Must-Try Roadside Snacks

1. Grilled Corn: Fresh corn on the cob grilled over an open flame. It’s simple yet incredibly tasty, with a smoky flavor that’s perfect for a quick snack.
2. Sticky Rice: Sticky rice is a staple in the region and comes in various flavors.
3. Boiled Corn: Another popular snack, boiled corn is often sold at roadside stalls. It’s sweet, tender, and perfect for munching on as you travel.

Local Delicacies

The local cuisine in the areas around Thung Khe Pass, such as Mai Chau and Hoa Binh, offers a rich variety of traditional dishes. 

Must-Try Dishes

1. Com Lam (Bamboo Rice): Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. The rice is infused with the aroma of bamboo, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. It’s often served with grilled meats or vegetables.
2. Ga Nuong (Grilled Chicken): Chicken marinated with herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. It’s often served with a dipping sauce made from lime, salt, and pepper.
3. Ca Suoi Chien (Fried Stream Fish): Fresh fish caught from local streams, lightly battered and fried. It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, usually served with a tangy dipping sauce.
4. Rau Rung (Wild Vegetables): A variety of wild vegetables gathered from the mountains, often stir-fried or boiled. They’re fresh, healthy, and bursting with natural flavors.

Tips to Keep in Mind When Visiting Thung Khe Pass

If you’re renting a motorbike or car, thoroughly check its condition before you start your journey.

Drive slowly and carefully, especially if you’re not used to mountainous roads. 

If you’re riding a motorbike, wear a helmet and protective clothing. It’s also wise to wear sturdy shoes for better control and safety

Bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey. The altitude and physical exertion can dehydrate you quickly

Follow all local traffic regulations and signs. Be mindful of speed limits and overtaking rules. 

Thung Khe Pass sits at a high elevation, so you might experience altitude sickness.

 Check the weather forecast before you travel, and be prepared for sudden rain or fog. Carry a raincoat or waterproof jacket.

Besides water and snacks, pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications.

Don’t miss out on trying local specialties. Sample grilled corn, sticky rice, and bamboo rice from roadside stalls. 

Many small eateries and markets may not accept credit cards, so carry enough cash.

Take all your litter with you and dispose of it properly.

Also read: Vietnam travel tips