Home
Destinations

Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass

The Hải Vân Pass, also known as the Sea Cloud Pass, gracefully winds across a dramatic spur of the Trường Sơn mountain range, where rugged peaks meet the sea. About 30 kilometers north of Đà Nẵng, this scenic road ascends to a height of 496 meters, tracing a path along the southern slopes of the Ải Vân Sơn peak, which towers at 1,172 meters. This stretch of highway is renowned for its breathtaking views of mountains cascading into the azure waters of the East Sea, offering some of the most stunning vistas in Vietnam. The railway line below mirrors the road's curves, cutting through tunnels and skirting the isolated, pristine coastline.

Historically, this pass marked the boundary between Vietnam and the Champa kingdom in the 15th century. Until the Vietnam War, the area remained densely forested. At its summit, a bullet-ridden French fort—later repurposed as a bunker by South Vietnamese and US forces - stands as a testament to its military past.

The Hải Vân Pass is also known for its unique climate-dividing properties. During the winter months, from November to March, the pass forms a visible boundary between the northern and southern climates. While the exposed northern side toward Lăng Cô can be wet and chilly, the southern side, protected by the mountains, often remains warm and dry, sheltering Đà Nẵng from the fierce "Chinese winds" that sweep down from the northeast.

In 2005, the 6,280-meter-long Hải Vân Tunnel opened, offering a faster, more efficient route between Đà Nẵng and Huế by bypassing the winding mountain pass and cutting travel time by an hour. However, while the tunnel is convenient, missing out on the stunning views of the pass on a clear day is truly a loss. Those who take the time to traverse this remarkable road are rewarded with one of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, a reminder of nature’s majesty and the country’s deep historical legacy.

Top Places To Visit
Hai Van Pass

Why choose Eco nature travel?

Flexibility

Flexibility

Easy to customize your itinerary with help from our reliable local travel experts.

Refund Guarantee

Refund Guarantee

We believe in our work and promise to give you money back

Quality at our core

Quality at our core

High quality standards. Reliable reviews. A Tripadvisor company.

24/7 customer support

24/7 customer support

We are always available online to provide assistance at any time

Quick tour inquiry

Notify
Close