What is Thung Khe Pass like?
Thung Khe Pass is a natural mountain pass located on National Highway 6, between the towns of Tan Lac and Mai Chau in Hoa Binh Province. It connects the Red River Delta region with the mountainous northwest and is the main gateway to popular destinations like Mai Chau and Moc Chau.
At around 1,000 meters above sea level, the pass offers sweeping views of limestone cliffs, terraced fields, and the green valleys below. While it may not be as steep or famous as Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang or Tram Ton Pass in Sapa, it’s a memorable drive — especially if you time your visit for early morning mist or late afternoon light.
Because it’s the main route to Mai Chau from Hanoi, nearly everyone who visits the region passes through here — even if they don’t know the name. The road is winding but well-paved, and there are several places where you can stop to enjoy the view, buy snacks, or take photos.
Views from the Thung Khe pass
Thung Khe Pass offers some of the most scenic views on the road to Mai Chau. The most iconic viewpoint is located near the top of the pass, where the landscape turns bright white due to exposed limestone. This section is often referred to as White Rock Pass — a name that comes from the white cliffs created when the road was cut through the mountain.
At the viewpoint, you’ll find a cluster of simple roadside stalls and tea shops, known locally as Thung Khe Market. These thatched-roof huts serve hot tea, corn, local snacks, and mountain produce. Many tour buses stop here for a break, and it’s a convenient spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and take in the panoramic view of the Mai Chau Valley far below.
Be aware that the weather at the top can change quickly — it’s often chilly, and mist or low clouds can obscure the view completely. On clear days, though, the outlook is spectacular.
If you’re traveling by motorbike, there are more opportunities to stop at smaller viewpoints along the road. For cars or minivans, parking is mostly limited to the main market area, where space is available and views are just as impressive.
Mai Chau Viewpoint
The Mai Chau Viewpoint, also known as the Thung Khe Flagpole or Mai Chau Flagpole, is the most famous stop along the Thung Khe Pass. Located near the highest point of the mountain road between Hanoi and Mai Chau, it offers a wide, unobstructed view of the entire Mai Chau Valley — with patchwork rice fields, small villages, and distant mountains all visible in one sweeping panorama.
This spot has become one of the most photographed locations in the area. If you’ve searched for Mai Chau online, chances are you’ve already seen pictures taken from this exact viewpoint. On a clear day, the scenery is breathtaking, and it’s one of the best places to understand the scale and beauty of the valley before you descend into it.
You’ll find the Mai Chau Viewpoint directly along QL6 (National Route 6), just before the final descent into Mai Chau town if you’re coming from Hanoi. There’s a wide shoulder near the flagpole where tour buses and cars often stop, and a few stalls selling tea, corn, and snacks.
If you’re self-driving or on a motorbike, keep an eye out for the small red-and-yellow flagpole on the right side of the road when heading west. It marks the perfect photo stop — especially in the morning when the valley is often bathed in mist or soft sunlight.
Best time to visit
Thung Khe Pass is known for its dramatic shifts in weather throughout the day — locals say you can experience all four seasons in a single ride. Mornings may be misty and cool like spring, afternoons feel warm and sunny like summer, and evenings bring chilly air like winter.
Fog is most common in the winter months (December to February), especially in the mornings, which can limit visibility but also create a moody, atmospheric scene. Summer months (June to August) are part of the rainy season, but mornings often start clear, with rain or storms more likely in the afternoon.
For the best chance of clear views, aim to pass through late morning to early afternoon, especially between March and May or September and November — when skies tend to be clearer and road conditions more stable.
Getting to the Thung Khe pass
Thung Khe Pass lies directly on the main road between Hanoi and Mai Chau, so most travelers pass over it without realizing. Whether you’re on a local bus, a private tour, or riding your own motorbike, it’s easy to include in your journey — but how you experience it depends on your mode of transport.
Hanoi – Mai Chau by van or minibus
If you’re taking a local bus from Hanoi to Mai Chau, it may stop at the White Rock Pass (Thung Khe Market) — but only if the driver decides to take a break. Minibuses and limousine vans more commonly stop at both the Mai Chau Viewpoint (the flagpole) and the market area.
Some tours from Hanoi also include photo stops along the pass. If you’re booking transport, check whether stops are included — or ask your driver to pause briefly for photos.
Want to visit Thung Khe Pass comfortably?
Several of our tours from Hanoi and Mai Chau include stops at both the Mai Chau Viewpoint and White Rock Pass. Ideal if you want great views without worrying about transport.
Going by scooter from Mai Chau
Thung Khe Pass is only 10 km from the Mai Chau valley floor if you’re heading to the Mai Chau Viewpoint, or 20 km if you want to reach the White Rock Pass area with the market stalls.
- Drive yourself – If you’re confident on a motorbike, this is one of the most scenic short rides in the region. Just be aware the road has sharp curves and steep sections — not ideal for beginners.
- Ride on the back – Many homestays and lodges can arrange a local guide to take you on the back of their motorbike. It’s a safer option if you’re not comfortable driving yourself, and locals know the best spots to stop.
Renting a car with driver
If you don’t want to ride a scooter, hiring a private car with driver is a comfortable option. This works especially well if you want to include Thung Khe Pass as part of a day trip loop from Mai Chau.
Stopping with a car can be tricky on the roadside, but there are designated pull-over areas at both the Mai Chau Viewpoint and the White Rock Pass market.
Visit Thung Khe Pass as Part of a Mai Chau Loop
One of the best ways to experience Thung Khe Pass is by turning it into a scenic loop through Mai Chau’s highlights. This 60 km drive includes stunning viewpoints, a quiet lake, a waterfall, and a great final stop to relax or go kayaking. (see the route in Google Maps)
Stop 1: Mai Chau Viewpoint (Thung Khe Flagpole)
Start the loop by heading uphill to the Mai Chau Viewpoint for sweeping views over the valley — a popular photo stop and must-see along the pass.
Stop 2: White Rock Pass (Thung Khe Market)
A few kilometers further, you’ll reach the White Rock area with roadside stalls, local snacks, and panoramic views. It’s a classic quick stop for both buses and independent travelers.
Stop 3: Hoa Binh Lake Viewpoints
Take the left turn off the pass and follow a rural road to reach the shores of Hoa Binh Lake. The road hugs the lake with several quiet viewpoints ideal for photos or a short break.
Stop 4: Go Lao Waterfall
Continue along the lake until you reach Go Lao Waterfall — a short but beautiful stop with great photo opportunities, especially after rain.
Stop 5: Mai Chau Floating House
Wrap up your loop with a relaxing break at Mai Chau Floating House. You can chill by the lake, grab a drink, or rent a kayak to explore the calm waters before heading back to town.
Tip: The road is scenic but has steep sections and sharp curves. Confident drivers only, or consider arranging a private car with driver.
