Tham Ma Slope: A Challenging Pass in Ha Giang
Tham Ma Slope is a winding mountain pass on Highway 4C, connecting Ha Giang city to Dong Van district. Known for its dangerous and challenging terrain, it ranks as one of the top backpacking routes in northern Vietnam. Despite its difficulty, the pass attracts many adventurous travelers due to its unique beauty. From above, the road resembles a “silk strip” winding through the majestic mountain slopes. The breathtaking view captivates everyone who sees it.
Geography and Location
The mountain pass stretches about 5 kilometers and sits at an altitude of 1,500 meters. The road is sharp and zigzags through the terrain. Located 10 kilometers from Yen Minh, the pass connects the villages of Lung Thau and Van Chai.
Local Culture and Life on Tham Ma Pass
Along the pass, you’ll discover various interesting geosites, including impressive cliffs and rocks. The Hmong people make the most of the limited soil for agriculture, growing crops such as corn, beans, and others. They use stones to craft tools and build houses, and they raise livestock suited to the climate.
The View and Photo Opportunities
At the top of Tham Ma Pass, you’ll find a great vantage point to capture the winding, s-shaped road. The view offers perfect photo opportunities, and children from ethnic minority groups often walk around here, carrying flowers.
The Pass’s Historical Significance
In the past, locals used Tham Ma Pass to test the strength of their horses. They would take the horses up the steep pass with heavy loads to assess their stamina. If a horse reached the top in good condition, they would keep it. However, if it didn’t, they would slaughter the horse to make Thang Co, a special dish commonly found at farmers’ markets in Ha Giang. That said, it’s not recommended to try it.