Nestled within the mountainous province of Cao Bang in northern Vietnam, Na Tenh Pass is an under-the-radar gem for travelers and adventure seekers. Located just 15 kilometers from the famed Khau Cốc Chà Pass, Na Tênh charms with its gentle curves, verdant landscapes, and peaceful rural atmosphere — a striking contrast to the more dramatic and daunting mountain passes of the region.
A Serpentine Beauty with 20 Gentle Bend
While Cao Bang is well-known for iconic passes like the 15-level Khau Cốc Chà and the seven-tiered Ma Phuc, Na Tênh remains relatively unknown even among seasoned travelers. Found along the route from Hà Giang to Cao Bang, this mountain pass lies within Can Nong commune (Ha Quang district), bordering Xuan Truong commune (Bao Lac district).
Na Tênh boasts 20 smooth, flowing curves, weaving through rolling hills and mountain valleys like a silken ribbon. Unlike Khau Cốc Chà’s dramatic, stair-like switchbacks that cling vertically to the mountain cliffs, Na Tênh’s slopes are more forgiving — ideal for both motorcyclists and cyclists looking for a scenic and less demanding ride.
A Discovery off the Beaten Path
For adventurer Le Thanh Binh, a 29-year-old traveler from Hanoi, the discovery of Na Tênh Pass was a fortunate accident. While planning a motorbike trip through Cao Bang in late September, he spotted the snaking road on a digital map. Drawn by its elegant curves and lack of crowds, he decided to make it a highlight of his trip.
“The curves were wide and manageable, without any sharp or dangerous bends. Compared to Khau Cốc Chà, Na Tênh is much easier to ride,” Binh shared.
Nature’s Masterpiece
The charm of Na Tênh lies not only in its road design but also in its surroundings. Terraced rice fields, lush maize plantations, and tranquil mountain villages frame the pass, creating a picturesque tableau on every turn. From nearly every point along the way, travelers are rewarded with panoramic views of Cao Bang’s untouched beauty.
Between September and October, the landscape transforms into a painter’s palette of gold and green as rice fields ripen for harvest. Meanwhile, the summer months from May to July see the pass flanked by vibrant green cornfields — an ideal time for those seeking a refreshing countryside retreat.
A Cyclist’s Delight
Na Tênh Pass has also caught the attention of cycling enthusiasts like Truong Ngoc Quyen, a 27-year-old from Ho Chi Minh City. On a recent trip, he completed a scenic bike route that connected Khau Cốc Chà Pass, Xuan Truong Valley, and Na Tênh Pass.
Having conquered some of Vietnam’s most legendary mountain passes — including Ma Pi Leng, O Quy Ho, and Khau Pha — Quyen was struck by Na Tênh’s peaceful vibe. “Instead of sheer cliffs and rocky walls, you ride alongside green rice paddies, small villages, and local homes. It feels very intimate and soothing,” he said.
Though the descent is more effortless than the climb, Quyen advises caution: “You’re making 20 consecutive turns, so it’s important to stay focused. Avoid rainy days, as the road can be slippery.”
A Twin Adventure
For those making the journey, Na Tênh Pass pairs perfectly with a ride through Khau Cốc Chà. Though short at only 2.5 kilometers, Khau Cốc Chà is one of the most treacherous mountain passes in Vietnam, with 15 dramatic levels and 14 hairpin turns. Once a narrow trail, the road was widened and paved between 2009 and 2011, but it remains a magnet for thrill-seeking bikers and photographers alike.
Together, Na Tênh and Khau Cốc Chà offer a stunning blend of adrenaline and serenity — making them a must-visit duo for those seeking the lesser-known wonders of Vietnam’s northern highlands.
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Source: Vietnam Insider