January
14.3°C ~ 58°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
Mu Cang Chai
Khau Pha Pass
One of the four great passes of the north, with sweeping views and paragliding in autumn.
- Time needed
- From 30 minutes
- Entry fee
- Free
- Best months
- Sep – Oct
- Best time
- Morning, September – October
Overview
Khau Pha is a mountain pass at about 1,200 m on the road to Mu Cang Chai, and one of the four great passes of the north. The road winds above a valley with terraces, and a viewpoint at the top often rises above the cloud.
In September and October, paragliders launch from the ridge and land in the valley, which is a popular activity at harvest. The view is wide and the cafes at the top are a good place for a break.
Highlights
- Look over the valley and terraces
- See the clouds below the pass
- Watch or try paragliding in autumn
- Have coffee at the top
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Open all day |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Free Paragliding is paid separately |
| Time needed | 30 – 60 minutes |
| Best time of day | Morning, September – October |
| Good for | Drivers, photographers, adventurers |
| Accessibility | Roadside viewpoint; short walk |
| Facilities | Cafes, toilets, viewpoint stalls |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Mu Cang Chai by month.
February
15.9°C ~ 61°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
19.5°C ~ 67°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
April
21.9°C ~ 71°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
May
23.3°C ~ 74°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
23.4°C ~ 74°F
29 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
23.5°C ~ 74°F
28 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
23.2°C ~ 74°F
29 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
22.7°C ~ 73°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
October
20.5°C ~ 69°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
November
18.1°C ~ 65°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
14.7°C ~ 58°F
5 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
How to get there
From Mu Cang Chai centre
Khau Pha Pass is on the main road from Nghia Lo to Mu Cang Chai. Cars and buses travel through it, and it is a regular stop on the way into the district.
Tips before you go
- Go early for clearer views
- Drive slowly, since the bends are sharp
- Book paragliding with a licensed operator
- Bring a warm layer
Location
Khau Pha Pass, Mu Cang Chai, Lao Cai
About 25 km before Mu Cang Chai town
More attractions in Mu Cang Chai
FAQs
When is the paragliding season?
Usually September and October, during the golden rice harvest.
Is it worth stopping?
Yes. The view over the valley is one of the best on the route to Mu Cang Chai.
Is the road safe?
The road is paved but narrow with sharp bends, so drive slowly and avoid night driving.