1. Overview of Ngang Pass, Vietnam
Ngang Pass straddles the border between Ha Tinh and Quang Tri. Situated along National Road 1, it lies on the Hoanh Son mountain range. The northern side is part of Hoanh Son Ward in Ha Tinh (formerly Ky Anh Town), while the southern side belongs to Phu Trach Commune in Quang Tri (formerly Quang Dong Commune).
Stretching 6 kilometers, Ngang Pass reaches a peak elevation of 256 meters. From the 2nd to the 10th century, it marked the boundary between the Dai Viet and Champa kingdoms.
2. History & significance of Ngang Pass, Vietnam
Ngang Pass was built in 992 under the Early Le dynasty. Located along the vital North-South route through the Hoanh Son mountain range, it held strategic importance throughout Vietnamese history. The pass was successively fortified by the Champa kingdom and later by the Trinh lords in the 17th century, who built what became known as Ong Ninh Rampart.
During the Trinh-Nguyen civil war, Ngang Pass was the main defense post for the northern forces. In 1833, King Minh Mang ordered the construction of Hoanh Son Gate at the summit of the pass.
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3. Must-have experiences at Ngang Pass
3.1. Take a scenic motorbike ride along the pass
Riding a motorbike through Ngang Pass is an inspiring journey for those who love nature and seek the thrill of exploration. On the Quang Tri side, travelers can gaze out over the East Sea, where islands like La and Yen rise gently from the waves. On the Ha Tinh side, the landscape shifts to rugged rock formations, white-sand beaches, and fishing boats glimmering under the light of dawn or dusk.
Along the winding road, peaceful rural scenes unfold with rice fields, ponds, and scattered villages nestled among layers of forested hills. One unmissable highlight is the towering rock wall on the western side of the pass, home to the highest peak of the Hoanh Son mountain range. As bikers descend from the summit, this massive wall seems to rise directly ahead, creating a breathtaking view.
3.2. Explore the ancient Hoanh Son Gate
Hoanh Son Gate was built in 1833 under King Minh Mang to control movement through Ngang Pass. The locals call it "Heaven’s Gate." Having stood for nearly 190 years, it remains impressive, over 4 meters tall, with walls stretching more than 30 meters. On the Ha Tinh side, a stone staircase carved into the mountainside leads to the gate. A white plaque bears the name "Hoanh Son Quan" in three Chinese characters. From here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view, where natural and rural elements meet in harmony.
3.3. Pass through the modern Ngang Tunnel
Ngang Tunnel, nearly 500 meters long, offers a safer and faster alternative to the winding mountain road. With a width of about 12 meters, it allows vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 60 km/h. While most traffic now goes through the tunnel, the old mountain road leading to the summit, where the iconic Hoanh Son Gate stands, remains a favorite for travelers seeking stunning views.
3.4. Visit nearby attractions
Near Ngang Pass, there are several attractions that are well worth a visit:
- Lieu Hanh Temple (about 600 meters away) honors Lieu Hanh, one of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese folk belief, and receives deep reverence from the people.
- Hoanh Son Beach (about 2 kilometers away) boasts a pristine stretch of coastline that reflects the simple life of the local community.
- Vung Chua - Dao Yen Tourist Area (about 5.4 kilometers away) is the final resting place of General Vo Nguyen Giap. It is known for unspoiled beaches and swallows gliding through the open sky.
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4. Tips for exploring Ngang Pass, Vietnam
4.1. How to get to Ngang Pass, Ha Tinh?
As a former natural boundary between Ha Tinh and Quang Tri, Ngang Pass remains easily accessible from both directions via National Road 1A: either head south from Ha Tinh or north from Quang Tri. To get there, you can hop on a coach that goes between Ha Tinh and Quang Tri, which costs around 80,000 VND per trip. Young travelers often prefer riding a motorbike, which offers more freedom and allows them to fully enjoy the scenery along the way.
4.2. When is the best time to visit?
Ngang Pass can be visited year-round, but the dry season from March to September offers the most favorable conditions. Clear, sunny weather makes travels safer, especially for those going by motorbike. Early in the year is also worth considering, as the mild sunshine and cool breezes create ideal conditions for a relaxing getaway.
4.3. What to note?
For a rewarding experience at Ngang Pass, travelers should keep the following tips in mind:
- Check the weather forecast in advance to prepare accordingly
- Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, a light jacket, gloves, and a hat
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no shops in the area
- Don’t litter .
Ngang Pass offers not only breathtaking views but also a rich history. Once a key defensive site, it is also celebrated in Vietnamese poetry. After crossing Ngang Pass, visitors can explore nearby attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and discover the surrounding natural beauty.
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