Thung Khe Pass

Thung Khe Pass is on National Highway 6, about 28 km from the centre of Hoa Binh City — approximately 40–45 minutes by motorbike or car.

From Hoa Binh City: Follow National Highway 6 toward Son La. After about 28 km, look for the 'Deo Thung Khe' sign on the left side of the road. It is easy to pass if driving quickly, so watch for it.

From Hanoi: Head southwest on Highway 6 through Hoa Binh. The pass comes before Mai Chau, roughly 2 hours from Hanoi by motorbike.

Most Mai Chau and Moc Chau tours include a stop here — check your itinerary before booking to confirm.

About the Pass

Thung Khe Pass — also known as White Stone Pass (Deo Da Trang) — sits along National Highway 6 in Hoa Binh Province, roughly 28 km from Hoa Binh City. It was formed when road workers carved through limestone mountains to build the highway. Large chunks of white rock tumbled down the slopes during construction, blanketing the hillsides in a pale layer that resembles snow from a distance — which is how it earned its nickname.

The summit offers crisp, cool air and a sweeping view over the green valley below. It is a natural rest stop on the road between Hoa Binh and Mai Chau, and most travellers on the Mai Chau Loop pass through here.

What to Do

• Photography: The white limestone slopes against the lush green valley make for striking shots, especially in the early morning mist or at golden hour
• Summit market: A small market at the top sells local produce, snacks, and souvenirs from ethnic minority vendors — worth a browse and a bowl of something hot
• Mai Chau flagpole viewpoint: A short walk from the road leads to a flagpole with panoramic views across the valley and hills toward Mai Chau

Weather

The pass sits at elevation, so temperatures are noticeably cooler than the lowlands year-round. In winter (December–February) it can be cold and misty; in summer the views are clearest. Morning visits offer the best light and fewest crowds.

Tips

• The pass is on the way to Mai Chau — easy to combine as a 20-minute stop rather than a standalone trip
• The road can be slippery in wet weather; take bends slowly on a motorbike
• Look for the "Deo Thung Khe" sign on the left side of the highway heading toward Son La — easy to miss at speed
• No entrance fee