Khau Coc Cha Pass is one of the most challenging and stunning mountain passes in Cao Bang, famous for its steep slopes and “fourteen sharp zigzag turns” cutting through wild mountain scenery.
As part of the extended Ha Giang Loop route, it attracts travelers who love adventure and want to experience the raw beauty of Northern Vietnam.
With over 8 years of experience guiding Ha Giang Loop tours, Lila Tour and Inn shares the stories behind this iconic pass, from its location and history to scenery highlights and practical travel tips.
Let’s explore together.
What to know about Khau Coc Cha Pass?
Khau Coc Cha Pass, also known as Ma Pia, is located in Xuan Truong Commune, Bao Lac District, Cao Bang Province. It is about 90 kilometers from Cao Bang City and around 40 kilometers from Meo Vac in Ha Giang, close to the Chinese border.
The pass sits deep in a narrow valley, hugging the steep slopes of Coc Tra Mountain. Around the pass, there are no houses, only a small rest stop at the top where travelers can pause and catch their breath.
Although the road is just 2.5 kilometers long, it has 14 sharp bends due to its steep climb.
From above, the road looks like a giant coiled spring wrapped around the mountain. Riding here requires focus and steady control, but reaching the final bend brings a strong sense of achievement and excitement.
Often called the stairway to heaven, Khau Coc Cha Pass rewards travelers with wide views of Cao Bang’s mountains and valleys. A short path near the summit leads to a higher viewpoint, where you can look back at the dramatic road you have just conquered.
It is hard to imagine that only about 15 years ago, Khau Coc Cha was just a narrow mountain trail less than half a meter wide.
In 2009, it was expanded into a proper road, becoming an important route that connects Bao Lac with nearby areas and one of the most impressive mountain drives in Northern Vietnam.
Explore more iconic
Ha Giang Loop passes and let each mountain road reveal a new side of Ha Giang’s wild beauty. 
Best time to visit Khau Coc Cha Pass
From our local experience, the best time to visit Khau Coc Cha Pass is from September to April, when the weather in Northern Vietnam is at its most pleasant.
During this period, the dry season brings cool, clear days with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for safe, enjoyable rides along the winding mountain roads. This period also brings out the most beautiful scenery around Khau Coc Cha Pass.
From September to October, golden rice terraces glow under the soft sunlight, creating a breathtaking contrast against the rugged mountains.
As spring arrives, peach and plum blossoms gently cover the highlands, painting the valleys with a dreamy, romantic charm.
Otherwise, July to August marks the peak of the rainy season. Usually, it rains at night and clears up during the day. So, if you want to conquer the pass, make sure you’re well-prepared.
For the best answer to “best time to visit Khau Coc Cha pass”, you would rather check the weather conditions in the whole Ha Giang and Cao Bang before you go. Let’s check out the best time to visit Ha Giang Loop to get more insights on weather patterns and travel seasons in Northern Vietnam.
The best routes to reach Khau Coc Cha Pass
From Ha Giang
The easiest way to reach Khau Coc Cha Pass is from Meo Vac, Ha Giang. From Meo Vac town, follow National Road 34 toward Bao Lac, Cao Bang. This scenic mountain road runs for about 40 kilometers, passing high cliffs, deep valleys, and quiet villages before reaching Bao Lac town.
From Bao Lac, continue for around 15 kilometers toward Xuan Truong Commune. The road then leads directly to Khau Coc Cha Pass, hidden deep among the mountains. This route is often included in extended Ha Giang Loop itineraries.
At Lila Inn & Tour, our itineraries connect the Ha Giang Loop Cao Bang, allowing you to experience Khau Coc Cha Pass as part of a longer and more complete northern Vietnam adventure.
From Cao Bang
Another option is to start from Cao Bang City, though this route is less popular. From the city center, follow National Road 4A toward Bao Lac District. The journey is about 90 kilometers and takes you through remote mountain landscapes before reaching Xuan Truong Commune and Khau Coc Cha Pass.
This route is suitable for travelers who are already exploring Cao Bang and want to add a challenging mountain pass to their journey.
If you plan to explore both the Ha Giang Loop and Khau Coc Cha Pass, you have two main travel options:
- Join a guided tour: You can join a guided tour and ride behind an Easy Rider, an experienced local driver who handles the road for you. If you prefer more independence, you can ride your own motorbike while following a guide, as long as you have a valid IDP. For families or small groups, a private car tour offers the most comfortable experience.
- Rent a motorbike: For confident riders with an IDP, renting a motorbike gives you full freedom to explore at your own pace and enjoy the adventure of the open road.
For a better overview of the route and nearby highlights, don’t forget to check our Ha Giang Loop map before you start your journey.
Must-try experiences at Khau Coc Cha Pass
On your journey to Khau Coc Cha Pass, take your time to soak in the breathtaking landscapes, discover the rich local culture, and savor distinctive regional flavors. Based on our travel experience, here are a few highlight activities worth exploring.
1. Trekking to the best viewpoint: Pac Thoc Peak
The best panoramic view of Khau Coc Cha Pass is from Pac Thoc Peak, located right across from the pass. To reach the top, you will follow a forest trail for about 40 minutes to one hour. The first part is easy, but the final climb is steeper and can be slippery, so take your time. Once you arrive, all 14 winding curves of the pass appear below you like a living picture, and the stunning view makes the climb feel completely worth it.
Ma Pi Leng Vietnam offers dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views over the emerald Nho Que River.
Hunting the clouds
Khau Coc Cha Pass is a great place for cloud hunting, especially in the early morning from October to March. Thick mist often fills the valleys, creating a dreamy sea of clouds. To enjoy it fully, locals suggest arriving the afternoon before, camping overnight, and waking up early to watch the clouds slowly drift between the mountains.
3. Taste the local food
A trip to Khau Coc Cha Pass feels even more complete when you taste the local food of Cao Bang. In Bao Lac District, don’t miss the famous seven-flavor roasted duck with crispy skin, ant egg cake wrapped in fig leaves, or sour pork fermented in bamboo for a bold, tangy taste. You can also pre-order a meal at Mr. and Mrs. Nong Van Ngoan’s small local eatery, then come back after your visit to enjoy a warm meal, chat with the hosts, and learn more about daily life in the mountains.
Top nearby spots to explore Khau Coc Cha Pass
Many travelers visiting Khau Coc Cha Pass often choose to combine it with other beautiful spots along the extended Ha Giang – Cao Bang Loop.
Based on our experience guiding tours through this route, we’ve gathered a few nearby destinations that are definitely worth adding to your journey.
Na Tenh Pass
Na Tenh Pass is a lesser known but beautiful mountain pass in Cao Bang, located on the same route as Khau Coc Cha Pass between Bao Lac and Ha Quang. With around 20 sharp curves along a 2.5 km stretch, the road hugs the steep slopes of Coc Cha Mountain and offers peaceful views of green valleys and limestone peaks.
Still new to most travelers, Na Tenh Pass feels wild, poetic, and dramatic, making it a rewarding stop for those riding from Ha Giang to Cao Bang who want to explore a quieter yet powerful side of the Northeast.
Nam Ngua Eco-tourism Site
Nam Ngua Eco-tourism Site is located about 6 km from Thong Nong town and 28 km from Khau Coc Cha. It is a stunning natural spot surrounded by lush mountains and green valleys. The waterfall drops over 100 meters, splitting into multiple streams that flow through the village below, creating a refreshing and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can swim in the clear water, relax by the streams, and enjoy the surrounding scenery of forested hills, terraced fields, and traditional Tay houses. With its combination of dramatic nature and local culture, Nam Ngua offers a serene escape and a memorable experience for anyone exploring northern Vietnam.
Lung Pan Bamboo Forest
Lung Pan Bamboo Forest is located in Lung Pan, Huy Giap Commune, Bao Lac District, Cao Bang, is a peaceful and scenic spot about 22 km from Khau Coc Cha Pass. The forest features tall, twisting bamboo groves creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the shaded paths, relax in the cool air, and take stunning photos amid the endless green. Nearby villages offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the Tay and Nung communities, making Lung Pan a perfect place to enjoy both nature and local traditions.
Tham Ma Pass Ha Giang challenges riders with steep slopes and marks one of the most iconic climbs on the loop.
Best places to stay near Khau Coc Cha Pass
Although Khau Coc Cha Pass sits high in the mountains and far from the town center, you can still find a few small guesthouses nearby where travelers can stop for a comfortable rest.
Here are some places Lila has personally researched and recommends for your journey.
Sunny Bao Lac Homestay
Sunny Bao Lac Homestay is a clean, friendly, and comfy place to stay in Bao Lac town. It offers easy access to the mountain roads, with simple double and twin rooms, free wifi, 24/7 reception, and helpful services.
The average price is around 450,000 VND – 700,000VND per night.
Homestay Khuoi Khon
Khuoi Khon Homestay is located in a Lo Lo ethnic village in Bao Lac, Cao Bang. It stands out with its traditional wooden stilt house and peaceful mountain scenery. The homestay offers single rooms, double rooms, and dorms, suitable for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Guests can enjoy local meals, walk around the village, and experience Lo Lo culture in a simple, warm, and authentic setting.
The average price is around 480,000VND per night.
Mark 81 – Homestay, Restaurant
Mark 81 Homestay and Restaurant is a simple, friendly place to stay in Bao Lac. It offers basic but comfy rooms and a small cafe where you can enjoy local food. It’s a convenient stop for travelers exploring the mountain roads of Cao Bang.
Bao Lac Homestay & Hostel ( Mr Antoine )
Bao Lac Homestay Hostel and Coffee is a cozy and convenient stay in Bao Lac, offering simple double rooms, triple rooms, and dorms. Guests can enjoy free wifi, parking, a small garden, and an on site cafe.
The average price is around 200,000 VND – 800,000VND per night.
Com Homestay Bao Lac
Com Homestay Bao Lac is a small, local homestay with a rustic wooden stilt house in the mountains of Bao Lac. It offers simple rooms, warm local hosts, and a peaceful place to experience everyday village life.
The average price is around 150,000 VND – 400,000VND per night.
Note: Prices for each homestay are updated based on Booking.com as of December 2025
How to enjoy Khau Coc Cha Pass safely
To make your trip to Khau Coc Cha Pass smoother and safer, Lila has compiled practical tips from over 8 years of guiding tours along the Ha Giang – Cao Bang route:
- Check the weather: Roads can get slippery during the rainy season (July–August), so plan and pack accordingly.
- Pack light: Bring only essentials and follow our Ha Giang Loop Packing Guide for a hassle-free ride.
- Dress in layers: The weather at Heaven’s Gate can change quickly, from warm sunshine to chilly winds, so layering keeps you comfortable.
- Start early: Avoid riding after sunset due to winding roads, low visibility, and lack of streetlights.
- Wear protective gear: A proper helmet, long sleeves, and sturdy shoes shield you from sun, wind, and unexpected road conditions.
- Download offline maps: Signals can be weak; offline apps like Maps.me or Google Maps help you navigate safely.
- Carry enough cash: Rural villages often lack ATMs, and some places don’t accept cards.
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Bac Sum Pass Ha Giang is the first mountain pass where the Ha Giang adventure truly begins.
Explore Khau Coc Cha Pass with Lila Inn & Tours
Khau Coc Cha Pass is a true highlight of the Ha Giang Loop Cao Bang, known for its steep road and 14 sharp turns that turn every ride into an unforgettable adventure. Each curve reveals wild mountains and quiet valleys, making this pass a must visit when traveling between Ha Giang and Cao Bang.
With over 8 years of experience and 24,000+ travelers guided, Lila Inn & Tour brings you through Khau Coc Cha Pass as part of our Ha Giang Loop Cao Bang tours (from 7 days), focusing on three simple values:
- Safety first: Our Easy Riders have over 5 years of riding experience, are professionally trained, and always follow strict safety rules.
- Small group tours: Fewer than 10 travelers per group for better care, comfort, and personal space.
- Off the beaten path: We take you beyond the usual routes to hidden places most travelers never see.
If you’re short on time, Lila can also arrange a Ha Giang Loop 3 days tour that covers the most iconic highlights of Ha Giang, giving you a rich and memorable experience even on a tighter schedule.
Conclusion
Based on our local experience, the 14 dramatic turns of Khau Coc Cha Pass are something you must see and feel in person. Photos and words can never fully capture its power, only when you ride through each steep curve do you truly sense the wild beauty of the mountains. That is why this pass is best experienced as part of a Ha Giang Loop Vietnam tour.
Lila Inn & Tour is happy to accompany you on this journey, helping you ride safely through Khau Coc Cha and other iconic routes, and experience Ha Giang where its raw beauty speaks for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Khau Coc Cha Pass safe for first time riders?
No. The pass is very steep with sharp turns, so it is not safe for beginners. If you have little mountain riding experience, the safest choice is to go with an Easy Rider.
Where is the best viewpoint of Khau Coc Cha Pass?
The top viewpoint is Pac Thoc Peak, right across from the pass. From the base, follow a small trail and hike about 40 to 60 minutes. From the top, you can see all 14 curves of the pass.
What is the best vehicle for Khau Coc Cha Pass?
A 150cc motorbike is best because the road is steep and rough. Lila Easy Rider tours use 150cc plus bikes. If you ride yourself, Lila can help you choose a good bike.
Is it better to visit the pass from Ha Giang or Cao Bang?
It is easier from Meo Vac, Ha Giang. From Meo Vac, go on Road 34 for about 40 km, then 15 km more to Xuan Truong Commune. The route is shorter and has great views.
Are there places to eat or rest near the pass?
Yes. There are small eateries and cafes along the road. At the bottom of the pass, the Nong Van Ngoan family offers simple local meals. For staying overnight, options include Sunny Bao Lac Homestay, Khuoi Khon Homestay, Mark 81 Homestay and Restaurant, and Bao Lac Homestay Hostel and Coffee.
