What is Bac Sum Pass like?
Located in northern Vietnam, Bac Sum Pass is one of the first mountain passes you’ll encounter along the Ha Giang Loop. While it may not be the most dramatic of the passes, it still offers stunning views and serves as an introduction to the incredible landscapes you’ll experience in the days ahead.
As you drive along, you’ll pass a few coffee shops where you can stop, relax, and enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee while soaking in the scenery. However, many travelers tend to continue just a little further to the next pass, Quan Ba Heaven Gate, which offers even more impressive views. Bac Sum Pass, while beautiful, is often seen as the first glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes that await further along the Ha Giang Loop.
Highlights of Bac Sum Pass
Below are some of the sights ranked as you’ll encounter them when coming from Ha Giang City and driving the loop. Not all of these might fit into your itinerary, and that’s okay — they’re worth considering if you have extra time, but remember, they’re not the most impressive stops you’ll encounter along the Ha Giang Loop. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Minh Tan Stream
Minh Tan Stream is a peaceful, natural spot located at the base of Bac Sum Pass. It’s a great place to stop, cool off, and relax, especially during the hot months. The stream is surrounded by lush greenery, and the water is clear, making it an inviting place to dip your feet or take a break. While it’s not a major attraction, it’s a good place to unwind before or after your drive along the loop.
2. Bac Sum Pass Viewpoint
As you climb the pass, you’ll reach a viewpoint where you can stop for a break and enjoy the scenery. There’s a small restaurant here where you can grab a drink and take in the view, or simply pull over at one of the other spots along the way for a quick photo. While not as dramatic as other viewpoints along the loop, it’s still a decent place to appreciate the surrounding landscape.
3. Tham Luong Cave
Tham Luong Cave is a minor detour from Bac Sum Pass, requiring a bit of stair-climbing to reach. The cave isn’t as impressive as others in the region, but it offers a glimpse of rural life and local surroundings. It’s not a must-see for everyone, but if you have extra time or are interested in caves, it’s worth considering. The rural village surrounding the cave adds a bit of charm, making it a peaceful spot to visit.
4. Hoa Tam Buckwheat Flower Fields
If you’re traveling from September to December, you’ll pass the Hoa Tam Buckwheat Flower Fields, which are in full bloom during this time. These fields offer a great photo opportunity with vibrant flowers covering the landscape. While it’s a popular stop for those looking for a picturesque scene, it’s not the main highlight of the Ha Giang Loop, so don’t feel like you’re missing out if you don’t stop.
5. Heaven’s Gate and Twin Mountain
A short drive after Bac Sum Pass, you’ll encounter Heaven’s Gate and the iconic Twin Mountains. This area is known for its breathtaking panoramic views, with the two rounded peaks of Twin Mountains standing side by side. Heaven’s Gate itself is a gateway to spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the region and offers a perfect stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Don’t miss it — the views are amazing.
How to get to Bac Sum Pass
Bac Sum Pass is along the Ha Giang Loop, so it’s an unavoidable part of the route. You’ll need to drive over it if you’re following the loop from Ha Giang City. The loop starts in Ha Giang, which is accessible from Hanoi either by limousine bus or car during the day, or overnight sleeper buses at night. Once in Ha Giang, you can begin the loop by car or motorbike.
Bac Sum Pass is about 35 km from Ha Giang City, roughly a 1-hour drive. If you’re driving yourself, just follow the main QL4C road or use navigation. You’ll make a few small climbs, but the first significant climb and the tight turns are when you enter Bac Sum Pass — you can’t miss it.
Explore Tours to Bac Sum Pass and the Ha Giang Loop
Looking to explore Ha Giang by motorbike or car? Check out our Ha Giang Loop tours, including stops at Bac Sum Pass and all the famous and off-the-beaten-path destinations along the way. Enjoy guided trips with transfers and sightseeing support.
Practical tips for visiting Bac Sum Pass
Best time to visit Bac Sum Pass
Bac Sum Pass isn’t really a seasonal destination, but there are a few rice terraces along the way, which look their best when in bloom. These are small terraces, not as vast as Sapa’s, but still scenic. They’re lush and green from July, turning golden yellow around September when harvest season hits. The weather can be cooler in the winter, while summer might bring a bit more rain. For a more detailed look at when to visit, check out our guide on the best time to do the Ha Giang Loop.
Bring some cash
Along Bac Sum Pass, there are a few coffee shops where you can take a break and enjoy the view, especially near the Heaven’s Gate stop just after Bac Sum. These spots don’t usually accept card payments, so make sure to bring some cash with you for drinks or snacks.
What to wear
Keep in mind that the temperature changes as you drive up to Bac Sum Pass. Even if it’s warm in Ha Giang City, the higher altitude means cooler temperatures and sometimes even fog or clouds. If you’re traveling by motorbike, make sure to keep a jacket within easy reach. If you’re in a car, have it accessible for a stop at the top of the pass.
Drive safely
Bac Sum Pass is the main route that leads to Dong Van, and it’s used by both locals and tourists. You’ll share the road with vans, cars, motorbikes, and trucks delivering goods, so it’s important to drive carefully. Stay as far to the right as possible and always give a few honks at sharp corners where visibility is poor. This is a busy, working road, so safety comes first.
