Along with the four great passes (Ma Pi Leng Pass, O Quí Ho Pass, Khau Ha Pass and Pha Din Pass), Bat Pia Pass in Cao Bang province, is one of the most famous passes in Vietnam. The entire pass is located on Highway 4A with a total length of only 2.5km but because of the steep slope, it is made up of 14 spectacular curves.
The 14 tiers of the pass are 14 sharp bends, steep and sudden descents, flanked by mountains overlapping. Many people who do not remember the name of Bat Pia Pass often call it a 14-storey pass because of this shape feature.
According to many locals, Bat Pia Pass has been around since the French colonial era. Initially, this was just a rough, rugged dirt road for horses to walk. It was not until about 2009 that the State began construction of asphalt roads for Bat Pia Pass. Since the opening of the road, this 14-storey winding slope is only about 40cm wide, so far it has been solidly built with a road surface of about 5m wide.
Photo: Internet
Because of the rugged and picturesque winding, this road is always the most wanted place to conquer many backpackers at home and abroad when coming to the Northwest, especially Cao Bang tourism.
To conquer the highest point of the pass, you have to trek through the forest and follow the ridge in 1 hour.
Perhaps the biggest challenge for backpackers is the bends. These sleeve bends can cut deep into cliffs or narrow roads and close to the abyss, forcing a "spirit of steel" and solid steering wheel to pass safely.
Although it is tiring and hard, but in return when you reach the place, you will feel that the effort spent is extremely worth it because of the beautiful scenery of Cao Bang mountains.
Photo: Internet
To conquer a dangerous pass like Bat Pia Pass indeed requires a lot of determination, courage, good physical strength as well as a spirit of steel. If you also want to conquer Bat Pia Pass, prepare everything carefully.