Stopping near the top of Ma Pi Leng Pass, next to the Happiness Road Museum, you’ll encounter a white limestone ridge stretching skyward, like the bare spine of a mountain piercing through the clouds. This is the White Cliff of Ha Giang, once an ancient path of the H’Mong people, now transformed into one of the most beautiful trekking routes on the rock plateau.

In this article, Phieu Travel will guide you through this stunning path, from navigation directions and local legends to unmissable experiences and important trekking tips. Let’s explore together!

1. White Cliffs of Ha Giang – The Most Spectacular Trekking Path

The White Cliffs of Ha Giang, also known as the Divine Cliff, is located atop Ma Pi Leng Pass, about 2km from Dong Van center. This long, sharp limestone ridge extends straight out from the edge of the precipice like a mountain’s exposed spine. Once an ancient trail connecting Dong Van and Meo Vac districts, the White Cliff has now become one of Ha Giang’s most magnificent trekking routes, attracting adventure seekers to this vertical rock wonderland.

From the foot of the pass, the cliff rises imposingly against the sky. As you approach, layers of fractured rock become visible – rugged and weathered to a silvery gray. The rough, cold rock surface rises straight up, creating the sensation of a mountain wall blocking the clouds and winds. Below lies the emerald Nho Que River, quietly winding through Tu San Gorge – the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia.

2. How to reach the Divine Cliff

The journey to the Divine Cliff begins from the Happiness Road Museum located at the top of Ma Pi Leng Pass. From here, you can park your vehicle and continue on foot, or travel another 3km by motorbike along a narrow path. This route is just wide enough for a single motorbike, with a sheer cliff on one side and a deep precipice on the other. If you’re not confident in your riding skills, it’s safer to walk the entire 5km stretch.

After the initial stretch, the remainder is a trail along the mountainside. The path is quite narrow, with some uphill sections and passages between rock outcrops. As you approach the summit, you’ll see a viewing platform overlooking Ma Pi Leng Pass and the winding Nho Que River below. This is a perfect spot to rest and take photos before continuing your trek to the main area of the Divine Cliff.

3. Ancient Legends and Folklore

The H’Mong people in Meo Vac tell of a beautiful fairy who once sat singing and watching the Nho Que River from atop a cloud-covered mountain. Under her protection, the village enjoyed peace and bountiful harvests. To commemorate her kindness, locals named this mountain Chua Lanh Gau, meaning Fairy Mountain.

Legend has it that at the highest point of the cliff grew a medicinal plant that could cure all illnesses. A young man, desperate to save his wife, climbed the mountain using hundreds of wooden stakes as steps. He gathered the medicine and saved his wife. Mysteriously, all the wooden stakes disappeared afterward, and no one could climb up again. Not long after, two white cliffs appeared on the mountaintop – one large and one small – which locals call the Husband Cliff and Wife Cliff.

The villagers believe the fairy was touched by this devotion. Water droplets falling from the cliff onto the trees below are called “fairy tears.” Those who drink this water are said to gain health and good fortune. During rainfall, those who stand under the cliff yet remain dry are considered blessed by the fairy. Each year, H’Mong people still make offerings at the foot of the cliff, regarding it as a sacred place of the mountains.

4. Best seasons for hiking the White Cliff in Ha Giang

You can visit the White Cliff any time of year, but the most beautiful and favorable hiking season is from September to April. This is the dry period with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and non-slippery rock surfaces, making movement easier and safer.

During the dry season, you can also stay longer on the trail without worrying about moisture or sudden rain. Clouds drift at eye level, the Nho Que River is clearly visible below the cliff, and the open space with natural light creates ideal conditions for trekking, photography, or simply enjoying the pristine beauty of the rock plateau.

5. Unforgettable experiences

The Divine Cliff is magnificent not only for its dramatic terrain but also for experiences that can only be felt firsthand. From watching the morning clouds and overnight camping to the sensation of standing amidst the sky – all are worth trying once in a lifetime.

5.1 Enjoying the unique beauty at the Divine Cliff

Standing atop the Divine Cliff, you’ll fully appreciate the grandeur of Ha Giang’s mountains stretching before your eyes. Below runs the emerald Nho Que River, silently winding through the immensely deep Tu San Gorge. In the distance, terraced fields embrace mountain slopes, creating a landscape that is both wild and serenely peaceful.

5.2 Watching the floating sea of white clouds each morning

On clear mornings, the Divine Cliff emerges amidst a sea of clouds drifting at eye level. As the sun begins to rise and the mist gradually dissipates, layers of white clouds swirl around the cliff edges, creating a dreamlike scene that resembles a painting.

5.3 Overnight camping on the Cliff

Setting up camp for the night atop the Divine Cliff is a rare experience in this rocky plateau region. As evening falls, you can watch the sunset descend upon the crystal-clear Nho Que River below. In the early morning, the sun gradually rises over distant mountains, with gentle light filtering through the mist, rendering the landscape peaceful yet vibrant with life.

6. Tips for Conquering Ha Giang’s White Cliff

To ensure a complete and safe trekking experience on Ha Giang’s White Cliff, you need thorough preparation of both physical fitness and equipment. Here are some important notes before starting your journey:

• Choose lightweight, breathable clothing. Bring warm jackets, scarves, and gloves as temperatures in Ha Giang often drop at night.
• Prioritize athletic or trekking shoes with good traction. Avoid slippery shoes, high heels, or plastic sandals.
• Limit travel during rainy days or early mornings with heavy fog. If riding a motorbike, ensure it’s thoroughly checked and you have steady control.
• Bring water, quick snacks, bandages, cold medicine, stomach medicine, and insect repellent to handle simple situations on the road.

7. Explore Unique Trails with Phieu Travel

The journey to the Divine Cliff is just one part of Ha Giang’s vast tapestry. This land holds countless spectacular routes waiting for your discovery, from the majestic Ma Pi Leng Pass to the peaceful Sung La Valley and villages nestled among the distinctive rock formations. If you want to experience the complete Ha Giang Loop without worrying about routes, transportation, or accommodation, let Phieu Travel accompany you!

Phieu organizes tours ranging from 2 days 1 night to 4 days 3 nights, suitable for groups of friends, families, or solo travelers. You can choose to travel by motorcycle, with an easy rider, shared transport, or private car. The itinerary is designed logically, allowing you to explore comfortably without exhaustion. Accompanying you will be local guides who understand every route and local story. Just start your journey, and let Phieu take care of the rest.

Ha Giang’s White Cliff is one of the most emotionally rich stops on the journey to explore the rock plateau. The feeling of standing among the clouds, gazing at the Nho Que River below, and listening to mountain winds blowing across the cliff makes this an unforgettable experience for all who visit. If you’re planning to trek here, let Phieu Travel accompany you!