Gorgeous Beauty of Ma Pi Leng

Ma Pi Leng in Ha Giang province, Ma Phuc Pass in Cao Bang province, O Quy Ho Pass in Lao Cai province and Pha Din Pass in Lai Chau province are really well-known for their cliffs and deep mountainous slopes. The passes have provoked endless inspiration of many artists and travellers to create pieces of art works.

 

Ma Pi Leng is the name of the ethnic group, which has different understandings but the most common one is the nose of the horse. Ma Pi Leng Pass links Dong Van and Meo Vac, the most impoverished districts in Ha Giang province. The pass was built in the 1960s by the people who had been living in this area for many years. Initially, the pass was just a trail against the cliffs. The inhabitants here used to go on foot or by motorbike. Therefore, traders faced many difficulties and people used to be isolated from neighbouring localities. To pave the pass, young volunteers and local people had to hang cables, using hands alone to crush the stone and build up the road for months.

 

Ma Pi Leng Pass has a length of approximately 20 km, located between ranges of sharp rocks and high mountains. The range of the majestic gray mountains spread out to the end of the horizon. Nearby, there is a gentle Nho Que River, silver under the sunset. Standing on one side of the pass, the traveller can view the mountains and passes running parallel to the river on the other side.

 

The areas around Ma Pi Leng Pass are mostly rugged mountains, so growing crops is extremely difficult. Stretching to the sides of the Ma Pi Leng Pass is the range of the rocks integrated with corn farms. The vitality of the habitants and the spectacular views of the Ma Pi Leng make it an interesting stopover to explore on the journey to Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ha Giang.