Tham Ma Slope in Ha Giang is one of the most breathtaking and iconic mountain passes in Northern Vietnam. Known for its winding curves and dramatic landscapes, this scenic road has become a must-see destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. For those who have explored Ha Giang, the memory of conquering Tham Ma Slope remains unforgettable. Let’s dive into this spectacular journey with Vietnam Car Rental’s.
A Little Introduction to Tham Ma Slope and Ha Giang
Tham Ma Slope is a dramatic mountain pass located on Highway 4C, along the route connecting Meo Vac District and Ha Giang City in Northern Vietnam. Often dubbed the most dangerous pass in the North, it has become a thrilling challenge that attracts adventurous backpackers from all over the world.
To conquer Tham Ma Slope, travelers must navigate nine sharp, winding bends—each turn revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For first-time visitors, the road offers both a test of courage and an unforgettable travel experience. Once you’ve passed the final curve, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the majestic Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
How to Get to Tham Ma Slope in Ha Giang
There is only one main route to reach Tham Ma Slope from Ha Giang City: follow Highway 4C. This scenic road passes through some of the most stunning landscapes in Northern Vietnam. Starting from Ha Giang City, the route takes you through Quan Ba, Yen Minh, and finally to Dong Van Town, where Tham Ma Slope is located.
You can either rent a motorbike in Ha Giang if you’re up for an adventurous ride, or for a more comfortable and safe journey, you can choose our private car rental service in Vietnam with a driver.
The journey to Tham Ma Slope isn’t just about the destination. Along this route, you’ll pass by several iconic attractions in Ha Giang, including:
- Quan Ba Twin Mountains
- Ma Pi Leng Pass
- The legendary Happiness Road
- The Hmong King’s Palace (Dinh Vua Meo)
Every turn offers a new experience—making the road to Tham Ma Slope an unforgettable adventure in itself.
Tham Ma Slope Backpacking Itinerary from Ha Giang City
If you’re planning a road trip through the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, here’s a suggested itinerary that includes Tham Ma Slope along with several iconic stops along the Ha Giang Loop.
Day 1: Ha Giang City → Quan Ba District
Begin your journey in Ha Giang City and follow Highway 4C toward Quan Ba. On this stretch, don’t miss:
Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate – a perfect viewpoint for the surrounding valleys.
Quyet Tien Market – a colorful ethnic market open on certain days of the week.
Twin Mountains of Co Tien (Fairy Bosom) – a geological wonder shaped like twin peaks.
Bac Sum Slope – the first thrilling challenge on your journey.
Day 2: Quan Ba → Yen Minh
From Quan Ba, continue riding through mountain passes and rice terraces to reach Yen Minh. Highlights include:
Yen Minh Pine Forest – nicknamed the “miniature Da Lat” for its tranquil beauty.
Du Gia Village – a serene stop for waterfall hikes and authentic homestay experiences.
Yen Minh Town – a good overnight stop with local eateries and fuel.
Day 3: Yen Minh → Tham Ma Slope → Dong Van
From Yen Minh, hit the road toward Tham Ma Slope, one of the most iconic bends on the Ha Giang Loop. This route also leads into the heart of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark.
Along the way, be sure to visit:
Tham Ma Slope – conquer 9 winding bends with jaw-dropping mountain views.
Sung La Valley – home to flower fields and traditional H’Mong houses.
King Meo’s Palace (Vuong Family Mansion) – a historic site rich in culture and colonial-era tales.
Lung Cu Flag Tower – the northernmost point of Vietnam.
Ma Pi Leng Pass – one of the “Four Great Passes” in Northern Vietnam.
Pho Bang Village – a quiet, timeworn village near the Chinese border.
Experience and Tips for Conquering Tham Ma Slope
Tham Ma Slope – A Daring and Dangerous Mountain Pass
Located on Highway 4C, Tham Ma Slope is considered one of the most dangerous mountain passes in Northern Vietnam, connecting Ha Giang City to Meo Vac District. This winding road links Yen Minh Town to Pho Cao, and though it poses a thrilling challenge, it’s also breathtakingly beautiful—surrounded by majestic mountains and dramatic curves.
These very features have made Tham Ma Slope a popular destination for thrill-seeking travelers. Even seasoned adventurers find this pass demanding. But the reward is well worth the effort: conquering Tham Ma Slope offers a rare glimpse into the stunning landscape of the Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
On one side are steep mountains, on the other is a deep abyss. In the middle of the mountain range and the abyss is a soft winding road between the craggy cliffs. Looking from above, we see the slope like a lovely peach silk in the middle of the majestic mountains.
Witness the Majesty of Nature in Ha Giang
As you ascend this incredible pass, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Ha Giang’s rugged mountains. On one side, deep abysses plunge dramatically below, while on the other, towering peaks rise boldly against the sky. The winding road gracefully weaves through towering rock walls, resembling a delicate silk ribbon floating through the poetic landscape of Northern Vietnam.
Along the way, golden rice fields stretch into the distance, adding a splash of color to the already mesmerizing scenery. It’s no exaggeration to say that once you begin this journey, all your worries seem to fade away—replaced by a profound sense of harmony between nature and soul.
Best Time to Visit Tham Ma Slope in Ha Giang
The allure of Tham Ma Slope lies not only in its sharp curves and narrow paths—sometimes just wide enough for a single motorbike—but also in the unique experience it offers: thrilling, slightly terrifying, yet irresistibly fun and rewarding. What makes this mountain pass truly special is how it transforms with every season, each bringing its own breathtaking beauty.
If you’re planning your adventure to Tham Ma Slope, here’s what to expect by season:
- September to October: The surrounding mountains are blanketed in vibrant golden rice fields. This is one of the most enchanting times to visit, as the landscape comes alive with harvest season colors across the Northwest highlands.
- October to late November: A magical transformation happens as fields burst into bloom with buckwheat flowers—delicate shades of pink, purple, and white carpeting the valleys. This is one of Ha Giang’s most iconic and photogenic times of year.
- November to December: As the buckwheat flowers fade, bright yellow mustard flowers take their place, painting the hillsides with sunny hues and creating yet another layer of natural wonder.
Pro Tip: Always check the weather forecast before you go. Rainy days can make the road slippery and dangerous, especially around the tight curves of the slope.
What to Eat Near Tham Ma Slope – Must-Try Local Dishes in Ha Giang
No trip to Tham Ma Slope is complete without indulging in the unique flavors of Ha Giang’s local cuisine. After an exhilarating ride through the winding mountain pass, satisfy your appetite with authentic dishes prepared by locals using ingredients native to Northern Vietnam’s highlands. The simplicity and soulfulness of these dishes will leave a lasting impression.
One of the top must-try dishes is Pho Tráng Kìm, a signature chicken noodle soup from Trang Kim village, located in Quyet Tien Market along the road to Tham Ma. This version of pho features a rich but light broth, sweet undertones, and tender yet chewy mountain-raised chicken—a perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Other highland specialties you shouldn’t miss:
- Thang Co: A traditional Hmong-style hotpot made with various cuts of meat and local herbs.
- Corn wine (Rượu Ngô): A strong, homemade rice wine typical of the region.
- Buckwheat cake (Bánh Tam Giác Mạch): A nutty, slightly sweet cake made from buckwheat flour.
- Smoked buffalo meat (Thịt Gác Bếp): Savory and smoky, often enjoyed with corn wine.
- Five-colored sticky rice (Xôi Ngũ Sắc): A vibrant dish made using natural plant-based coloring.
- Thang Den: A local dessert similar to sweet glutinous rice balls in ginger syrup.
- Cháo Ấu Tẩu: A unique porridge made from the toxin-removed “ấu tẩu” root, warming and nutritious.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a hearty meal after conquering the pass, Ha Giang’s culinary landscape offers unforgettable tastes that complete your mountain adventure.
Conclusion
Unlike some of the more commercialized tourist spots in Ha Giang, Tham Ma Slope remains a hidden gem—rugged, mysterious, and breathtakingly wild. Its quiet charm and challenging terrain make it a dream destination for those looking to experience an authentic and adventurous side of Northern Vietnam.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, conquering Tham Ma Slope is not just about the journey—it’s about connecting with the land, the people, and the raw beauty of Ha Giang.
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