Perched along the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, the Ma Pi Leng Skywalk is one of Ha Giang’s most breathtaking walking routes, offering panoramic views of the Nho Que River and the dramatic Tu San Canyon below. This trail allows travelers to experience the wild beauty of the Dong Van Karst Plateau from both high above and deep within its rocky heart.
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Overview
Stretching about 5 kilometers, the Ma Pi Leng Skywalk — officially known as the White Cliff Walking Route (Tuyến đường đi bộ Vách Đá Trắng) — connects Xéo Sả Lủng Village in Pai Lung Commune with Ma Pi Leng Village in Pa Vi Commune. The trail follows a limestone ridge at around 1,700 meters above sea level, running parallel to the Happiness Road that winds across Ma Pi Leng Pass.
Before National Highway 4C was built, this ancient path served as a trading route between Dong Van and Meo Vac. Today, local residents still use it daily to reach fields, markets, and schools, giving visitors a glimpse into authentic highland life.
The Route
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The journey begins near the Happiness Road Museum, where travelers can ride a motorbike for about 3 kilometers before continuing on foot along narrow mountain paths. The Skywalk weaves along the cliffs, offering alternating views of towering limestone walls and deep green valleys below.
Midway through the route lies the iconic White Cliff (Vách Đá Trắng) — a massive limestone formation with a natural hollow large enough to set up several small tents. From here, at 1,700 meters, visitors can gaze down at the emerald Nho Que River, the winding Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the distant mountain peaks that seem to float in the clouds.
The final section descends gently toward Ma Pi Leng Village, passing a viewpoint on Fairy Mountain (Cô Tiên) where you can capture breathtaking panoramas of Tu San Canyon — the deepest gorge in Southeast Asia.
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Highlights & Experiences
- Trekking or motorbike ride: About 3 km can be traveled by local motorbike taxi (xe ôm), while the remaining 2 km are best explored on foot.
- Photography & cloud hunting: Mist and light constantly shift, making it a paradise for photographers.
- Camping & resting: At the White Cliff area, there’s a flat spot about 3 meters wide and 10 meters long, perfect for setting up a picnic or a small camp.
- Cultural encounter: Meet ethnic H’Mong villagers tending their corn terraces and goats along the trail.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore the Ma Pi Leng Skywalk is from September to April, when skies are clear, and the mountains are covered in soft morning clouds.
Avoid June to August, as heavy rains can make the trail slippery and occasionally unsafe due to fog and landslides.
Avoid June to August, as heavy rains can make the trail slippery and occasionally unsafe due to fog and landslides.
Travel Tips
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes and bring water, snacks, and a light jacket.
- Avoid hiking during midday heat or rainy weather.
- Hire a local guide or motorbike driver if unfamiliar with the route.
- Always check the weather forecast before setting out.
