As visitors journey through Ma Pi Leng Pass while exploring the northern reaches of Ha Giang province, they’ll notice a narrow, parallel road winding high along the foot of a towering white limestone mountain. This route, carved into the cliffs, leads adventurers through the spectacular “White Cliffs,” offering breathtaking scenery and a mix of emotions for all who traverse it.
About the White Cliffs Trail
The White Cliffs Walk stretches about 5 kilometers, connecting Ma Pi Leng hamlet in Pa Vi commune to Xeo Sa Lung village in Pai Lung commune. It runs right over the summit of Co Tien Mountain. With moderate difficulty and well-marked paths, it’s an excellent choice for both seasoned hikers and beginners eager for a thrilling experience.
Journey Begins at the Happiness Road Museum
The trek starts at the Happiness Road Museum. For those daring enough, you can ride a motorbike about 3 km along a dramatic road carved into the mountainside. Before the construction of National Highway 4C, this path was vital for locals trading goods between Dong Van and Meo Vac. Even today, villagers still use this route to reach markets, farms, and schools.
Majestic Views Along “The Road to the Foot of Clouds”
Hiking the White Cliffs Trail, you’ll be stunned by:
- The pure blue sky overhead.
- The Nho Que River winding like a turquoise ribbon through deep valleys.
- Layers of mountains breaking away in magnificent cliffs.
It’s no wonder this route is known as “The Road to the Foot of Clouds.” Stand at the cliff’s edge and feel as if the mountains themselves are unfolding beneath your fingertips.
Natural Highlights on the Trail
One fascinating feature is a natural rock hollow forming an open space roughly 3 meters wide and 10 meters long. Locals have arranged stones here to create a rustic “table,” perfect for a picnic with views over the Nho Que River below. From this vantage point, you can also spot the twinkling lights of the tourist pier, where boats depart for scenic tours of Tu San Alley.
Cloud-Hunting from the White Cliffs
A vast cliff along the pass offers a unique opportunity for cloud hunting, where you’ll find yourself enveloped in drifting clouds. From here, the trail gradually descends into a valley before climbing toward the summit of Co Tien Mountain. Following the route, you’ll reach an observatory that offers sweeping views of Ma Pi Leng Pass and the emerald strip of the Nho Que River snaking through the dramatic Tu San Alley.
Camping and Panoramic Views
Adjacent to the White Cliffs is a hollow cliffside space large enough for five or six single tents, making it an excellent campsite. From an altitude of around 1,700 meters above sea level, you’ll enjoy:
- Unobstructed views of the Nho Que River below.
- Waves of blue mountain ranges rolling into the distance.
- The winding, serpentine path of Ma Pi Leng Pass cutting through the rugged landscape.
The sight is both serene and utterly majestic—a place where nature’s grandeur leaves visitors spellbound.
Endless Scenic Surprises
As you navigate the winding paths hugging the cliffs, be prepared for constant surprises. Each turn reveals new vistas:
- Jagged limestone mountains.
- The Nho Que River shimmering below.
- Unique rock formations and dramatic drops.
Photographers and nature lovers alike will find countless opportunities to stop, admire, and capture the spectacular scenery from ever-changing angles.
A View Like No Other
While traveling along National Highway 4C, you may admire the beauty of the Nho Que River from an altitude of around 1,500 meters. However, standing atop the White Cliffs at 1,700 meters offers an even more awe-inspiring panorama. From this lofty perch, you can simultaneously behold:
✅ The Ma Pi Leng Pass winding through the mountains.
✅ The shadowy depths of Tu San Alley.
✅ The vibrant green ribbon of the Nho Que River below.
For those seeking breathtaking natural beauty and a sense of adventure, conquering the White Cliffs Trail is a must-do experience in Ha Giang.
