Hai Van Pass
Vietnam, asia
21 km
496 m
moderate
February to August
The Hai Van Pass (Pass of the Ocean Clouds) is a 21-kilometer mountain road crossing a spur of the Truong Son mountain range on the border between Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang provinces in central Vietnam. Rising to 496 meters above sea level, the pass separates two distinct climate zones: the cooler, wetter north and the warmer, drier south. It was famously featured on the BBC's Top Gear Vietnam Special in 2008, where Jeremy Clarkson called it "a deserted ribbon of perfection - one of the best coast roads in the world."
The road was historically one of the most important strategic locations in Vietnam, controlling the narrow coastal route between the two halves of the country. Remnants of fortifications from the Nguyen Dynasty, French colonial period, and American/South Vietnamese military occupation can still be seen at the summit, including an old French-built bunker that now serves as an informal viewpoint. The pass marked the border between the ancient kingdoms of Champa and Dai Viet and later between South Vietnam and the Viet Cong-controlled north.
Since the Hai Van Tunnel opened in 2005, most commercial traffic bypasses the old pass road, leaving it remarkably quiet and perfect for motorbike touring. The road winds through dense tropical forest, past waterfalls and rocky outcrops, with dramatic views of the coastline, Lang Co lagoon to the north, and Da Nang bay to the south. The pass is a highlight of the popular motorbike route between Hue and Hoi An, and most travelers rent motorbikes or book "easy rider" guided tours to experience it. The road is open year-round, though low clouds frequently shroud the summit, living up to the pass's poetic name.
Where is it?
Hai Van Pass is located in Central Vietnam, Vietnam (asia). Coordinates: 16.1700, 108.1333
Driving Tips
Best experienced by motorbike. Drive from south (Da Nang) to north for the best views. Bring rain gear as clouds and drizzle are common at the summit. Visit the French bunker at the top. Open year-round.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- Vietnam
- Continent
- asia
- Region
- Central Vietnam
- Length
- 21 km
- Max Elevation
- 496 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Paved asphalt
- Best Season
- February to August
- Coordinates
- 16.1700, 108.1333
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