Ha Giang Province lies 300 kilometers from Hanoi. As one embarks on the journey towards Ha Giang and traverses the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the four most dangerous passes in Vietnam, travelers will discover a rugged path nestled at the base of white limestone mountains. This is the path that beckons adventurers to conquer the towering white cliffs.
The white cliff rests atop Chua Lanh Gau Mountain, locally known as the Fairy Mountain in the Hmong language. Found in Ha Giang Province, it spans Pai Lung Commune in Dong Van District and Pa Vi Commune in Meo Vac District, standing at 1,700 meters above sea level.
The white cliff path stretches over 5 kilometers, linking Xeo Sa Lung Village in Pai Lung Commune to Ma Pi Leng Village in Pa Vi Commune.
Ta Ba Lo, a travel blogger from the Bo Y ethnic group and a Ha Giang native, explored this route in September. He considered it moderately challenging, making it suitable for trekking beginners.
From Ha Giang City, the province's capital, he embarked on a motorcycle journey along Highway 4C. This route took him to the summit of Ma Pi Leng Pass, the stretch that connects Dong Van and Meo Vac Towns.
Afterwards, he arranged a motorbike taxi to navigate a narrow 3-kilometer road, sandwiched between cliffs on one side and the peak of Ma Pi Leng on the other, to reach the starting point of the hike. Following this, a kilometer-long walk along the path led him to the campsite, with the entire journey taking slightly over 40 minutes.
Throughout this path, panoramic vistas of the Ma Pi Leng Pass and the Nho Que River unfold before his eyes.
Ta Ba Lo said, "The fresh air evokes the feeling of traversing a realm between heaven and earth. As you run your hand across the cliff's surface, you can sense the ancient geological history etched into the mountain and hills."
According to him, this route is beginner-friendly, given its predominant use of paved roads and traveled paths used by locals. Steeper and more treacherous sections are safeguarded by iron railings.
"Wandering along the highest road in the Ma Pi Leng leaves me feeling incredibly small amidst the breathtaking nature of Ha Giang," he added.
Fortunate visitors who opt for days with favorable weather might even have the chance to witness the sea of clouds at the mountain's base.
Every point along the way serves as an ideal spot for taking photos. Notably, there is a designated viewing spot along the hiking trail, encouraging visitors to seize the moment, capture stunning photographs, and savor the panoramic beauty that unfolds below.
The campsite nestles within a natural hollow of the white cliff, forming a rocky space 3 meters wide and around 10 meters long. This area can accommodate 5-6 individual tents.
However, unlike the hiking path, the rock hollow lacks protective iron railings. Therefore, visitors must exercise caution regarding safety and refrain from overcrowding.
From this location, situated nearly 1,700 meters above sea level, travelers are treated to an expansive view of Ha Giang's marvels, such as the Nho Que River and Tu San Valley below. In the distance, one can discern the winding Ma Pi Leng Pass, alongside Pha Din, Khau Pha, and O Quy Ho passes.
In this remote wilderness, where Wi-Fi and phone signals are absent, visitors can completely embrace the tranquility of nature, providing a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Travelers are advised to bring lightweight food and beverages, as well as warm clothing since nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. Due to the remote location of the campsite, it is recommended to travel in groups for safety and mutual support. Visitors are also advised to practice responsible tourism by cleaning up before leaving to help preserve the landscape.
