Ha Giang City and Meo Vac district are connected by the treacherous Tham Ma route, also known as the Tham Ma Pass. This route is considered to be one of the most deadly zigzag passes in Northern Vietnam.

In this travel guide, we will provide you with important facts about Tham Ma Pass so that you may make the most of your time spent there.

Tham Ma Pass overview

Tham Ma Pass is made up of 9 different bends and is considered to be one of the most hazardous passes in the Northern region. The natural beauty in the region surrounding Tham Ma is stunning and captivating.

The mountain pass is approximately 5 kilometers long, located at an elevation of 1500 meters, and features a route that zigzags very sharply. The pass may be found between the villages of Lung Thau and Van Chai and is about ten kilometers away from Yen Minh.

The Tham Ma Pass was once utilized by people as a place to put their horses through their paces. To determine how capable their horses were of carrying huge loads, they led them up the mountain pass carrying the burdens. If a horse reaches the top of the stride and still appears to be in good condition, they will remain riding that horse. If this is not possible, the horse will be butchered to make Thang Co, a traditional meal that can be purchased at any of the farmer's markets in Ha Giang; nevertheless, it is not suggested that you taste it.

Check in at Tham Ma Pass in Ha Giang

There are several noteworthy sites, including some magnificent cliffs and rocks, all along this pass. The Hmong hill tribe, which is considered an ethnic minority, has successfully integrated into the surrounding environment. As a result of the rocky terrain, the locals have figured out how to make the most of the limited quantity of soil available for agricultural purposes, cultivating a variety of crops in addition to maize and beans. The stones are utilized for the construction of various instruments as well as the homes, and the inhabitants only keep livestock that is suited to this climate.

At the top of the pass, there is an excellent vantage point from where you can take shots of the twisting road that makes an S-shaped ascent. Children who belong to racial or ethnic minorities frequently do so with bouquets.

Best time to travel in Tham Ma Pass

You can travel to Tham Ma Pass at any time of the year; however, if you have the flexibility in your schedule, you should try to schedule this pass when it is neither cloudy or raining. You are at such a high elevation that it is quite likely that this mountain pass will be totally obscured by cloud cover, preventing you from having any visibility. It's possible to experience subzero temperatures from December through February, the winter months. Rainfall is more likely to occur during the warmer months of the year. The fall and the spring seasons are traditionally considered to be the ideal times to travel.

Tourists take pictures with local children at Tham Ma pass

How to get to Tham Ma Pass

The Tham Ma Pass may be found between the cities of Yen Minh and Dong Van. You can drive your own motorcycle through this mountain pass, or you can ride on the back of an Easyrider's motorcycle. Either way, this is the most beautiful and exhilarating way to see this mountain pass. You can also complete the Ha Giang loop in a car or minibus, making stops at the various overlooks along the way.

When compared to using many journeys on public transportation or relying on local taxi services, renting a private car can be a more cost-effective solution. If you're getting around the city by taxi, the expense of checking off all of the landmarks on your "must-see" list can quickly add up. When traveling for work or pleasure, renting a vehicle might provide you with greater peace of mind.

You are not subject to the vagaries and inconveniences of a public transportation system if you have a rental vehicle. You also get to choose the route that's best for you, which is especially useful if you like going for leisurely, scenic drives through the countryside. There is nothing more exhilarating than coming across a hidden natural wonder and capturing a photograph of the enchanted moment in which you find yourself there.  

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Other places of interest around the Tham Ma Pass

Because there is so much more to see in this region, you should expect to spend at least three or four days traveling about it. Before reaching the pass, you will have to travel to Quan Ba, where you will get the opportunity to view the Twin Mountains and explore a little cave located high up in the mountains. 

After crossing the Tham Ma Pass, you will arrive in the Sung La valley, which is known for its expansive flower fields. Next, you will drive through Sa Phin, which is home to the historic Hmong King Palace. You have the option of making a diversion to Lung Cu before continuing on to Dong Van. The route that you take there is incredibly scenic and passes through some of the most spectacular mountains in the area. You can travel to Lung Cu Flag Tower, which marks the location of the most northern point in Vietnam.

Besides, you can explore Pao’s house, take a boat ride on the Nho Que River,... 

Take a boat trip on Nho Que River

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Tips for traveling Tham Ma Pass, Ha Giang

• Remember to give your motorcycle some TLC before you head out to Tham Ma if you plan on riding it there.
• Put on some protective gear like a helmet and padding before setting out on your trip to stay safe.
• Bring along certain forms of identification with you, such as a passport and a driver's license.
• Bring along a backup power bank as well as a camera to capture your experiences.
• Before you leave, check the forecast to see whether there is a chance of precipitation or storms. Both slick roads and landslides provide a significant risk.
• Carry only the essentials. Bring along any necessary medications and first-aid supplies.

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