The Hai Van Pass is a highly picturesque, hillside road in Vietnam. While navigating the steep and winding paths of this paved mountain pass, travelers can experience tranquility, serenity, and uncover historical sites throughout their journey.
1. Overview of Hai Van Pass
Located on the north-south national highway, Hai Van Pass is a remarkable landscape that resembles a colossal dragon. It stretches along Highway 1 and serves as the boundary between Thua Thien-Hue Province and Danang City in Vietnam.
At an elevation of 500 meters above sea level, it is the highest pass in Vietnam. This rugged pass is the concluding segment of the Truong Son Range, which extends to the sea. The name Hai Van means Sea Clouds, as the summit of the mountain is engulfed in clouds while its base is adjacent to the ocean. Formerly known as the Thuan Hoa and Quang Nam frontier, the Hai Van Pass is steeped in rich history and culture.
2. History of Hai Van Pass
In 1306, Che Man, a king from Cham Pa, offered Princess Huyen Tran, daughter of King Tran Nhan Tong, two mountainous administrative units of O and Ri as engagement gifts. This event marked the beginning of Hai Van Pass acting as the physical boundary between Dai Viet and Cham Pa.
Today, the ancient grand gate atop the pass still serves as a reminder of one of the border crossings between the two kingdoms. During the Vietnamese-American War, Hai Van Pass was referred to as the “Street Without Joy” due to its connection between the war-ravaged cities of Hue and Da Nang.
3. Journey through Hai Van Pass
Amazement and Fear
When traversing through Hai Van Pass, two contrasting emotions are felt: a sense of wonder when passing through the clouds and apprehension upon witnessing the hazardous turns on the road. After ascending through numerous hairpin bends for almost an hour, you will finally arrive at the peak of the Hai Van Pass.
If weather permits (which is not often), you can enjoy panoramic views to both the North and South. Geographically, the pass serves as a visible demarcation line between North and South Vietnam, as evidenced by the fortifications constructed by the French that were later utilized by the South Vietnamese and Americans. If you plan on taking this trip, it is recommended to make a stop here; however, be prepared to encounter a swarm of souvenir and snack vendors who are some of the most persistent sellers you will encounter throughout the entire journey.
Challenging Your Skills
Hai Van Pass is a challenging yet stunning road with unexpected turns and blind spots, often referred to as an arrogant but captivating woman testing drivers’ abilities. It serves as the largest boundary checkpoint in Vietnam, named De Nhat Hung Quan or the most significant frontier post, which can be found engraved on an incense burner at Thai Temple.
While traveling through this region, Hai Van Pass remains an alluring view despite its hazardous obstacles, marking the final stretch of the Truong Son Range extending towards the sea. At the summit, the remnants of an ancient fortified gateway can be seen, with one entrance inscribed with “Hai Van Quan” facing Thua Thien-Hue Province, while the other gate overlooks Quang Nam Province that bears the title of the grandest gateway worldwide.
The gateway to Hai Van Quan appears similar to the entrance of an antique citadel because of its stonework. However, due to neglect, war, and time, Hai Van Quan now lies in ruins. Although it remains a memory of the past, tourists who explore the vast vegetation and tree-covered surroundings couldn’t help but feel nostalgic.
Sense of Isolation
The journey towards Hai Van Pass evokes a feeling of isolation as one progresses further along the route. The barren surroundings and uninterrupted asphalt road that slices through the forest create an inexplicable attraction. The lush green trees contrast with the deep blue waves of the sea, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
Unlike the Bao Loc mountain pass, which is bustling with people and villages along its way, Hai Van’s charm lies in its connection to nature and absence of human interference. The mountainside is adorned with an immense expanse of forest, whose shades of light and dark green are visible from afar. The picturesque view is enhanced by the fanciful clouds floating across the sky, making it an ideal spot to relish a cup of coffee while admiring the breathtaking landscape, as if viewing it from the heavens above.
To the Peak
Hai Van Pass is renowned for its treacherous roads, resulting in the deployment of frequent accident warning signs along the route. The scene at the peak is a remarkable sight, with foreign visitors bustling around, purchasing souvenirs, and witnessing modernity at its best. A rough staircase at the Hai Van Quan ancient vestige leads to the peak, where foreign women climb to take photos, making it challenging to imagine such a busy trade and contemporary culture if one does not reach the top.
Visitors craving an adventure on lofty peaks and seeking to relive the illustrious history of the Vietnamese people will find satisfaction at Hai Van Pass. Additionally, on clear days, visitors can soak in the spectacular view of Danang, the Tien Sa seaport, Son Tra Peninsula, Cu Lao Cham Island, and the long sandy beaches.
4. The Best Way to Ride Hai Van Pass
Ride A Motorbike Yourself
For experienced motorbike riders, it is highly recommended to try this exhilarating experience. It is advised to exercise caution in navigating sudden turns and going with a group of friends can also ensure safety. Check out the image for a glimpse of the adventure that awaits!
Take A Jeep Tour
For those who lack confidence in riding a motorbike for extended periods on the intense roads of Vietnam, they can opt for a Jeep Tour instead. Travelling by jeep with friends is often more economical than renting a motorbike and allows for easier picture-taking while admiring the scenery. If you prefer to relax and have a good time while taking in the views, a Jeep tour would be the perfect choice.
The 21-kilometer stretch over the Hai Van mountain pass may seem like a challenging journey, but it is undoubtedly a worthwhile experience.
