Me Pia Pass Cao Bang - Emerging in the most dangerous journey of North Vietnam

For travelers and adventure enthusiasts who love exploring the wild and majestic beauty of nature, Me Pia Pass (some locals called Me Pja Pass) is a destination not to be missed. Often referred to as the "14-level pass" due to its unique shape, many people don't remember its exact name. Me Pia Pass connects a village with a district center, spanning a steep mountain slope.   

The road was constructed with winding curves to ensure safety over the 2.5km stretch of steep terrain. Due to its treacherous and picturesque nature, this route has become a coveted challenge for many travelers (both domestic and international) when visiting the Northwestern region, particularly Cao Bang.  

I. The Story of Me Pia Pass  

Me Pia Pass is one of the most renowned mountain passes in Cao Bang Province, located in the Northwestern region of Vietnam. It is situated on National Highway 4A and spans a total length of only 2.5 kilometers. However, due to its steep gradient, the pass is formed into winding curves, resembling a ribbon in the wind. The entire pass lies within Xuan Truong Commune, connecting this commune with the center of Bao Lac District, which borders China.  

Me Pia Pass- One of the most dangerous and challenging passes in Vietnam  

From start to finish, Me Pia Pass winds like a long snake, forming 14 twists and turns that are both winding and spectacular for those who love adventure. Me Pia Pass is one of the most famous mountain passes in Cao Bang Province, located in the Northwestern region of Vietnam. Despite its total length of only 2.5 kilometers on National Highway 4A, its steep gradient has shaped it into curves that resemble a ribbon fluttering in the wind. The entire pass is situated within Xuan Truong Commune, connecting this commune with the center of Bao Lac District, which borders China.  

According to many locals, Me Pia Pass dates back to the French colonial period when it was initially just a rough, treacherous dirt path for horses. Around 2009, the government began the construction of a paved road for Me Pia Pass. At the beginning, the 14-level winding slope was only about 40 centimeters wide. Today, it has been solidly constructed with a road surface approximately 5 meters wide.  

Trekking- lovers destination: Me Pia Pass  

Due to its challenging and winding nature, Me Pia Pass is always on the list of must-conquer trekking destinations for many adventure enthusiasts, both local and international. To reach the highest point of Me Pia Pass, you must trek through the forest along the mountainside for about an hour. Navigating the pass requires excellent driving skills, experience in handling treacherous terrain, and a high concentration level.  

The mountainous terrain of the Northwestern provinces makes all routes demanding to traverse, suitable only for skilled drivers. Therefore, if you decide to drive your car or ride a motorbike to Me Pia Pass, you must ensure your abilities can handle any situation. Even if you choose to take a bus to Cao Bang, you will still need to rent a motorbike to reach Me Pia Pass and its 14 levels of steep slopes, making proficient driving skills essential.  

A unique aspect of Me Pia Pass is that it can be conquered via forest trails. Trekking through the forest to reach the summit of Me Pia Pass is an exciting journey for nature lovers. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic 14-level pass. To reach the summit, follow the forest trail up the hill. Along the way, you'll find a small refreshment stand run by locals, where you can ask for directions to the best viewpoint for a complete view of Me Pia Pass.  

II. Special things to cover when traveling to Me Pia Pass   

1/ Best time to visit Me Pia Pass, Cao Bang  

Me Pia Pass can be pretty challenging, so choosing the right time to visit is crucial for a complete and enjoyable trip. The best times to visit are August and September, when Cao Bang experiences mild, pleasant sunshine and minimal rain, making it ideal for navigating both the mountain roads and forest trails. During these months, you'll also witness the spectacular 14-level pass in all its glory. This period coincides with the water season and rice harvest, offering visitors the added bonus of stunning natural scenery.  

Another great time to visit is from December to February when the weather is neither too cold nor too hot. During these months, you can also enjoy the sight of blooming pear, peach, and plum flowers, which add an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.  

2/ Preparing the best trip at Me Pia, Cao Bang  

For travelers from distant regions like the South, Southwest, or Central Vietnam, flying is the quickest and most efficient way to reach Me Pia Pass. You can fly to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and then continue your journey to Cao Bang. It's advisable to plan your itinerary in advance and book your flights for the best deals to ensure a smooth trip,  

• Flights from Saigon to Hanoi: started at 600,000 VND.  

• Flights from Da Nang to Hanoi: started at 600,000 VND.  

• Flights from Can Tho to Hanoi: started at 700,000 VND.  

For those who love adventure, conquering Me Pia Pass by motorbike is an exciting option. However, be extremely cautious when driving on mountain roads, as they are very steep and treacherous. You could need excellent driving skills and a "steel spirit" to navigate the pass safely.  

A unique feature of Me Pia Pass is that it can be conquered through forest trails. Trekking Me Pia Pass is an exhilarating journey for nature lovers. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the 14-level pass. To get to the top, follow the forest trail up the hill. A small refreshment store operated by locals along the way allows you to ask for directions to the best viewpoint to see the entirety of Me Pia Pass.  

III. Best attraction places near Me Pia Pass  

In addition to the spectacular 14-level slope of Me Pia Pass, Cao Bang offers the chance to witness several other magnificent natural landscapes:  

Ban Gioc Waterfall   

A trip to Cao Bang wouldn't be complete without visiting Ban Gioc Waterfall. This waterfall is a symbol of Cao Bang's tourism, known for its majestic and breathtaking beauty. Often considered the most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam, Ban Gioc is located in Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District. The waterfall is over 10 meters high and wide, with rushing water creating stunning white foam as it cascades down.  

According to frequent travelers to the Northwestern mountains, the best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is from August to October, when the climate is cool, the water is clear, and the vegetation is lush and green.  

Featured tour: 6D5N Exquisite Sapa / Hagiang/ Cao Bang / Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour

Nguom Ngao Cave   

Nguom Ngao Cave is another must-see attraction in Cao Bang. Located in Gun Village, Trung Khanh District, this cave is known for its unique and eye-catching beauty. Inside, you'll find hundreds of years old stalactites with abstract and fascinating shapes that captivate every visitor.  

The interplay of light, water, and stalactites in Nguom Ngao Cave creates enchanting and mysterious patterns. Visiting during the rainy season from May to September allows you to admire the stunning stalactites, while in the dry season, you can walk on the sandy ground inside the cave.  

Featured tour: 7D6N Hagiang - Du Gia - Meo Vac - Cao Bang - Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour

Thang Hen Lake   

Thang Hen Lake is a renowned destination in Cao Bang, celebrated for its tranquil and picturesque beauty. This ecological tourist area offers a serene and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation. The lake is located at the border of Ngu Lao Commune, Hoa An District, and Quoc Toan Commune, Tra Linh District.  

Featured article: Eco Tourism In Vietnam: Breaking The Boundary Of Landscape Beauty

Exploring Thang Hen Lake allows you to see a complex of 36 interconnected lakes separated by underground caves. The best time to visit is in September and October when the water recedes, revealing an intricate network of tree trunks intertwined at the lake bed, only to be covered again by the rising tide. This natural phenomenon provides a unique and fascinating experience for all visitors.  

Special note: for those who love adventure tours of Cao Bang trekking to one of the most dangerous passes in Vietnam ( i.e. Me Pia Pass), World Mate Travel is here to help. We successfully organize hundreds of tours with high engagement and satisfaction.