Ma Phuc Pass: Conquer Vietnam’s Most Scenic and Thrilling Mountain Road
Ma Phuc Pass is a magnificent mountain pass well-known for its rich cultural legacy, gorgeous scenery, and peaceful surroundings. The pass gives guests an opportunity to see the unvarnished beauty and authenticity of rural Vietnam by passing through challenging mountains, deep woods, and small towns. Let MOTOGO Tours explore it.
Introduction to the Ma Phuc Pass
Nestled in Quoc Toan Commune, Tra Linh District, Cao Bang Province, the Ma Phuc Pass is a magnificent, twisting route known as the “Seven-Tiered Pass.” This distinctive pass gets its name from the seven high hills you must overcome, each delivering an exciting ride up and down. Spanning around 4 km, this route reaches an amazing altitude of about 700 meters above sea level.
While the route is attractive, it’s also challenging with abrupt curves and steep inclines, surrounded by high cliffs on one side and deep ravines or small valleys on the other. To really savor the journey across this pass, you must be sure your driving is confident or maybe think about bringing a reliable friend.
You will be treated to amazing views of the craggy mountains and unspoiled splendor of Northeast Vietnam’s woods as you negotiate this captivating road. The natural panorama of verdant valleys and medieval towns below the pass adds to the appeal. Especially, the Ma Phuc Pass is a geological legacy site included into the Global Geopark of Cao Bang, identified by UNESCO.
History and Cultural Significance of Ma Phuc Pass
Historical Context of the Area
Ma Phuc Pass has thousands of years of history; evidence of human habitation in the area goes back ancient times. Significant historical events like wars and conflicts influencing the area have occurred here. This deep sense of history is still palpable in the local culture and traditions, which reflect the resilience and spirit of the people.
Local Legends and Myths Associated with Ma Phuc Pass
As you traverse the Ma Phuc Pass, you’ll find two towering limestone formations that face each other like two horses lying on the ground, hence the pass’s name, “Ma Phuc” (Horse Lying Down). There are several local tales about the name’s source; one of the most well-known links is to the heroic figure Nung Chi Cao.
Leading the people in resisting the Song Dynasty from the north, Nung Chi Cao even captured portions of the Song’s territory, including present-day Guangdong and Guangxi, in the 11th century. However, after only three years as king, Nung Chi Cao was eventually defeated. Following pursuit and injury, he and his horse fell at the Ma Phuc Pass, therefore securing the name of the pass in history.
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The Best Time to Visit Ma Phuc Pass
Cao Bang goes through two seasons: the dry from October to March and the wet from April to September. Seasoned travellers say that the ideal time to come is August to September, when pleasant temperatures and little rain abound. This time also delivers vivid waterfalls, accentuated by the golden tones of ripe rice fields, therefore producing an amazing scene.
November and December are also perfect as the triangle plant’s and wild daisy’s blossoms cover the hillsides in brilliant hues. Alternatively, arriving in late spring or early summer offers a pleasant temperature; the beauty of pear, apricot, and plum trees accentuates the landscape even more.
How to Reach the Ma Phuc Pass
The Ma Phuc Pass is located approximately 30 minutes from Cao Bang city, and the road is rather easy to follow. From the city, simply follow National Road 3 to reach the pass. Two main means of transportation are by motorbike or by car/bus. Many adventurers choose a motorbike trip since it provides a closer close encounter with the cold mountain air and breathtaking scenery.
Buses provide a more comfortable journey for people who would rather not ride, nonetheless. For guests visiting from afar, you can fly into Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and then take a bus or automobile to Cao Bang to continue your experience exploring this gorgeous region of Northeast Vietnam.
Must-Visit Destinations When Conquering Ma Phuc Pass
There are several notable sites worth seeing close to Ma Phuc Pass. If you’re headed to the pass, make sure to explore these amazing sites!
The Market on Top of the Pass
Seeing the market at Ma Phuc Pass at the top of the pass is one singular experience you really cannot miss. On the 3rd, 8th, 13th, 18th, 23rd, and 28th of each month, ethnic groups including the Nung, Tay, and Dao risk the difficult mountain roads to bring their goods and congregate for the market.
Popular among visitors who enjoy shopping for mementos and gifts, traditional delicacies include smoked beef, dried buffalo meat, and handcrafted goods abound here.
Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Cao Bang’s most iconic tourist attractions. It is also one of the four largest transnational waterfalls in the world, straddling the Vietnam-China border. From the foot of the falls, you can see two parts: the left (which we might refer to as the secondary fall) and the right (the major fall). Vietnam owns the left half, together with a portion of the main fall; China owns the other half.
What makes Ban Gioc particularly distinctive is the Low Falls, which cascade not in a single drop, but in a series of levels resembling a stairway. From a distance, the waterfall appears as a gleaming silk ribbon running across the mountains of Northeast Vietnam. Majestic yet quiet, Ban Gioc’s beauty is fascinating, making it hard for guests to leave once they arrive.
Thang Hen Lake
Thang Hen Lake is often considered to a hidden jewel in Cao Bang, often referred to as a “forbidden lake.” This freshwater lake is situated 1,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by a lush forest and tall mountains. Like a mirror, the lake’s glistening clean waters reflect the rocky boulders and verdant woodlands, producing an absolutely amazing scene reminiscent of a live watercolor painting.
The Thang Hen Lake complex consists of 36 smaller lakes, and visitors can explore by boat, drifting over the water to see other lakes, savor the breathtaking scenery, and really connect with the area’s natural beauty.
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Mat Than Mountain
Part of Cao Bang’s Non-Nui Geopark, Mat Than Mountain, sometimes known as Thung Mountain, is an amazing sight seen within the Thang Hen Lake tourism region. One of the mountain’s most well-known features is a hole roughly 50 meters above the surface of the lake that spans whole width.
If you go early in the morning, the sun rises in the east and beams of sunshine pass through the mountain’s “eye,” producing an amazing display akin to a blossoming flower. Anybody visiting the mountain should definitely watch this natural show since it accentuates its splendor.
Nguom Ngao Cave
Nguom Ngao Cave is tucked away in the magnificent highlands of Gun Village, Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang. The history of this cave runs about three centuries. It features a large, amazing area covered in a great variety of distinctive stalactites and stalagmites. Varying in size and producing an enigmatic, almost otherworldly maze, these formations grow both downward from the ceiling and upward from the ground.
Outdoor Activities and Experiences at Ma Phuc Pass
Trekking and Hiking Options
Trekking and hiking choices abound at Ma Phuc Pass to suit different degrees of difficulty. Visitors can follow paths leading from past terraced rice fields to verdant woodlands and even to breathtaking overlooks. Longer paths spanning a full day or more allow those looking for a challenge. Hiking this area lets one have a close-up view of the local way of life and environment.
Scenic Photo Spots Along Ma Phuc Pass
One of the pleasures of visiting Ma Phuc Pass is capturing the breathtaking surroundings via pictures. The pass is lined with viewpoints that offer unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Especially lovely times to visit are sunrise and dusk when the light gives the scene a golden tint. Don’t overlook bringing your camera along for the journey!
Where to Rest When Visiting Ma Phuc Pass
Ma Phuc Pass is a perfect base for more investigation since it is within 30 minutes’ drive from Cao Bang city. Cao Bang is a quite famous tourist site now, hence getting lodging is simple. To guarantee a hassle-free stay and lock the best rates, it is advised, nevertheless, to reserve your accommodation in advance.
Among the hotels you might give thought are Muong Thanh Luxury Cao Bang, Luxury Hotel, Max Boutique Hotel, Bao Lac Homestay, Son Tung Hotel, and Thanh Loan Hotel. Traveloka offers further choices for you to choose the best lodging that fits your budget and taste.
What to Eat When Exploring Ma Phuc Pass
Don’t miss the mouthwatering regional cuisine to completely enjoy the Cao Bang trip. Among must-try foods are sour pork, ant egg cake, mmoked sausage, 7-spiced roasted duck, chestnuts and Da Hien vegetables. Any visitor will be left with a memorable taste from Cao Bang, hence make sure to enjoy these regional specialties when you visit the area.
A must-see site in northern Vietnam, Ma Phuc Pass presents a special fusion of natural beauty and cultural diversity. From hiking across verdant mountains and savoring real local cuisine to interacting with the community and learning about the traditions and history of the region, this picturesque path has something for every visitor.
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