What is Chin Khoanh Ramp?
Chin Khoanh Ramp (Vietnamese: Dốc Chín Khoanh) is a short but iconic mountain pass on the Ha Giang Loop, named after its nine sharp switchbacks carved into the hillside. The road is in good condition and offers excellent views, making it a favorite stop for travelers riding by motorbike, car, or Easy Rider.
Along the ramp, you’ll often find terraced flower fields — especially during buckwheat season — maintained by local Hmong families. These families may charge a small fee if you want to take photos in the fields, which helps support the local community.
The pass marks the entrance into Sung La Valley, one of the most scenic areas of Ha Giang.
Common confusion
Chin Khoanh Ramp is often mistaken for the nearby Tham Ma Pass. On Google Maps and travel platforms, reviews and photos are frequently mislabeled. While both passes are close to each other and offer hairpin turns, they are distinct roads. Chin Khoanh is known specifically for its nine defined curves, while Tham Ma is slightly longer and more famous — but both are worth seeing on your journey.
How to visit Chin Khoanh Ramp
Location
Chin Khoanh Ramp is located on National Highway QL4C, just before reaching Sung La Valley in Dong Van District. It’s part of the Ha Giang Loop and easy to spot due to its winding switchbacks.
Distance from Ha Giang City
The ramp is about 127 km from Ha Giang City. Travel time is roughly 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on road and weather conditions.
When to visit during the Loop
If you’re doing the Ha Giang Loop in a clockwise direction, Chin Khoanh Ramp typically falls on Day 1, shortly after passing through Quan Ba and Yen Minh. It makes a great photo or rest stop before continuing toward Sung La or Dong Van.
Transport options
- Self-drive motorbike – For experienced riders, this is the most flexible option.
- Easy Rider – Ride as a passenger with a local guide who knows the roads.
- Car with driver – Ideal for groups or travelers who prefer comfort and safety.
The pass is well-marked and doesn’t require a detour, so it’s a natural stop on any Ha Giang itinerary.
Ha Giang Loop Tour by Easy Rider
Ha Giang Loop Tour by Car or Jeep
Tips for the drive
Viewpoints
There are no official platforms or rest stops at Chin Khoanh Ramp, unlike at Tham Ma or Ma Pi Leng Pass. To enjoy the iconic view of the nine bends, you’ll need to stop along the road itself. This is easiest by motorbike, but cars can also pull over briefly at wider bends or with help from your driver. For the best photos, try to shoot from above, capturing the winding structure of the pass. Dense trees and roadside plants can obstruct some views, so finding a clear spot may take a bit of walking.
Coffee shop with a view
Roughly midway through the ramp, there’s a small roadside coffee shop with a handful of plastic chairs and drinks for sale. It’s one of the few places where you can safely stop, take a break, and enjoy the view. You can park your motorbike or car here easily. Many travelers grab a cheap iced tea or instant coffee and then walk a few minutes along the road for better photo angles.
Buckwheat flower fields
During flower season (usually late Sep–early Dec), one or two fields along the ramp are planted with buckwheat flowers. They often have a simple wooden fence, but you’re allowed to enter for photos. Expect a small fee (10,000–20,000 VND) requested by a local Hmong woman managing the spot. Outside of flower season, these fields may be empty or overgrown with grass, but they still offer a peaceful break with great views.
Nearby attractions
Sung La Valley
Just after the Chin Khoanh Ramp lies Sung La Valley, one of the most scenic areas of the Ha Giang Loop. It’s known for its flower fields, ancient houses, and peaceful landscape. You’ll naturally pass through it right after descending the ramp — perfect for a short stop or a longer walk.
Pao’s House (Lung Cam Village)
A short detour from the main road brings you to Lung Cam Cultural Village, home to Pao’s House, made famous by the Vietnamese film The Story of Pao. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, the traditional Hmong architecture and quiet atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop.
Tham Ma Pass
About 7 km before Chin Khoanh Ramp, Tham Ma Pass is another scenic stretch of switchbacks that’s often mistaken for Chin Khoanh. Both are worth seeing, especially if you enjoy mountain roads and dramatic landscapes. It’s easy to include both in your Ha Giang Loop itinerary.
