Hai Van Pass: One of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam

Hai Van Pass in Da Nang draws people with its unique beauty. If you are an adventurous tourist looking for thrilling experiences, this route will amaze you with spectacular natural scenes and many delicacies to explore.

Hai Van Pass in Vietnam is one of the world’s top ten most beautiful coastal roads. This pass, linked to many historical events, is a wonderful place for travelers due to its spectacular and artistic beauty. The dangerous curves and zigzag roads create a challenging trek for backpackers and offer unique experiences.

1. Where is Hai Van Pass located?

1.1. Location

Hai Van Pass is an outstanding landscape on the north-south national route. It looks like a huge dragon and is located on Highway 1 between Thua Thien – Hue Province and Danang City. This is Vietnam’s highest pass (500 meters above sea level). This rugged pass marks the end of the Truong Son Range, which stretches to the sea.

The poetic name of the Hai Van Mountain Pass comes from the mist rising from the East Sea and clinging to the mountaintops.

In Vietnam’s history, this pass has been a key barrier for any ground army moving between the northern and central areas. It was called the ‘Street Without Joy’ during the First Indochina War. The pass connected the war-torn towns of Hue and Danang via Highway 1.

1.2. Features

The most amazing aspect of the journey through Hai Van Mountain Pass is the feeling of seclusion. Walking alone in the dense forest brings a certain joy. The green woods contrasting with the waves in the azure sea create a picturesque scene.

The massive chasm at the mountain’s peak is speckled with light and dark green trees. This majestic scene, filled with floating clouds, makes Hai Van Pass ideal for enjoying a cup of coffee and immersing in the tranquil view.

Many hikers like to explore this pass as it evokes various emotions. You’ll be eager and fascinated when you leave the city. As you approach the twisting and challenging route, you’ll feel worried and a bit scared. The farther you go, the more you’ll be awed by the breathtaking scenery.

The pass has a unique climate since it crosses the country from west to east and is also an east-west spur of the Truong Son Annamite Range. The air is often damper and cooler to the north of the hill than to the south. If you enjoy the sunlight at the foot of the mountain, you’ll be amazed by the chilly weather with fog as you cross the peak.

1.3. Ways to travel to Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

Hai Van Pass is an excellent route to travel between Hoi An, Hue, and Danang via a peaceful and gorgeous coastal road that avoids the crowded National Highway 1.

There are 2 common ways to choose from:

• Riding from Hoi An or Danang to the south of Hai Van Pass – The convenient way: Even if you start in Hoi An, you’ll need to go through Danang and Hai Van Pass to get to Hue. The pass is more than 20 kilometers north of Danang city center.
• Riding from Hue to the North of Hai Van Pass – The challenging way: The closer you are to Da Nang, the easier it is to get to Hai Van Pass. However, if you are in Hue, you can still visit Hai Van Pass easily. The pass is over 80 kilometers from Hue. The shortest route from Hue is to start at Hue city center and follow National Highway 1 to Lang Co Town. If traveling from Danang to this pass, take the coastal route to see the breathtaking scenery of Pho Loi River, Thuan An Peninsula, fishing towns, Elephant Spring, Bach Ma National Park, and Lang Co Bay.

For a convenient way to travel to Hai Van Pass, consider the taxi service provided by Hura Cars, the first electric taxi company in Vietnam operated by VinFast electric cars. Customers not only receive excellent service but also help reduce vehicle emissions. Hura Cars offers standard and luxury taxi services, airport taxis, with attractive promotions. You can book a taxi via the Hura Cars website

Travel here by motorbike, local trains, taxi, or private cars. A motorbike tour is preferred by adventurous tourists seeking thrilling experiences.

2. Top things to do at Hai Van Pass in Da Nang

2.1. Conquer the most enchanting pass in Vietnam

When visiting Da Nang, don’t miss the Hai Van Pass. The route is thrilling, with curves hugging the mountainside. Standing on this pass, you will see a majestic mountain on one side and a vast blue sea on the other, creating a spectacular panorama that will astound every traveler.

The scenic panorama at Hai Van Pass (Source: Collected)

2.2. Stop by Hai Van Quan

At the top of Hai Van Pass lies Hai Van Quan, a gate that attracts many tourists. Located between Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang, it is surrounded by exquisite landscapes. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism designated Hai Van Quan as a national monument in 2017.

From Hai Van Quan, you can enjoy the marvelous landscape of Hai Van Pass in Da Nang(Source: Collected)

2.3. Visit Cu Rua rock

This popular spot on Hai Van Pass offers a stunning view of Da Nang beach. From the top of Cu Rua, you can capture breathtaking photos.

Embrace the whole charming scenery from Cu Rua rock (Source: Collected)

2.4. Take amazing photos at famous spots

• Bac Hai Van train station: From Hai Van Quan, travel 4 kilometers to the ranger station, then another kilometer on the concrete road to Bac Hai Van station. Watch out for trains when taking pictures.
• The deadly U-turn spot: Despite the name, this spot offers sparkling photos. Be mindful of traffic and the curve when shooting.
• The lonely pine tree: A familiar sight along Hai Van Pass. Stop for a drink at a nearby bar, but be cautious due to the traffic.
• Vom Don Ca bridge: Known for its untamed beauty. After Bac Hai Van station, continue a bit further to reach Vom Don Ca bridge. The path is steep and narrow, so be careful.

You will get stunning pictures at Vom Don Ca (Source: Collected)

3. What to eat when visiting Hai Van Pass?

3.1. Nam O fish salad

Nam O fish salad is made with fresh herring and served with raw veggies and special sauce. This delectable dish is a must-try.

Nam O fish salad – a must-try specialty (Source: Collected)

3.2. Scallop sauce

Scallop sauce is a famous Hue specialty that makes an appetizing gift. Fresh scallops marinated with spices like ginger, galangal, and green beans create a unique ocean flavor that will impress any gourmet.

Scallop sauce is one of the most favored specialties which can be an exotic gift for your families and friends (Source: Collected)

3.3. Hue steamed wet pancake

Mrs. Suu’s restaurant in Phu Loc, Hue is famous for its steamed wet pancake with pig belly. A hot pancake served with pickles, chives, carrots, and chili sauce will be a memorable culinary experience.

The unforgettable flavor of Hue steamed wet pancake will impress every gourmet(Source: Collected)

4. Tips to have a wonderful trip at Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

• Apply sunscreen and cover your arms, elbows, and legs.
• If you ride a motorcycle, ensure you have excellent driving skills.
• Book accommodation in advance to avoid any issues.
• Hai Van Pass is between Hue and Da Nang, so you can stay in either city.

The adventure doesn’t have to stop there! From Hue, you can travel to another great destination: Hoi An.

Hai Van Pass is perfect for adventurous tourists who love pristine nature and thrilling experiences while enjoying historical culture. Thousands of stunning photographs and delicious specialties await you. Choose this majestic destination for your next trip!