Back to Journal
Routes
Oct 12, 2025
Mike Ross

Top 5 Mountain Passes in Northern Vietnam

From the famous Ma Pi Leng to the hidden gems of Cao Bang, here are the roads you absolutely cannot miss.

Top 5 Mountain Passes in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is a paradise for motorcyclists, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in Southeast Asia. Here are our top 5 picks for mountain passes you must ride.

1. Ma Pi Leng Pass

Known as the King of Passes, this 20km stretch of road clings to the side of a limestone mountain, offering dizzying views of the Nho Que River below.

2. O Quy Ho Pass

One of the longest passes in Vietnam, crossing the Hoang Lien Son mountain range near Sapa.

3. Khau Pha Pass

Famous for its terraced rice fields, especially beautiful during the harvest season in September.

4. Pha Din Pass

A historic pass with a mix of tight hairpins and sweeping curves.

5. Tham Ma Pass

The iconic snake-like road that is the gateway to the Dong Van Karst Plateau.