About Thung Khe Pass
Thung Khe Pass, also known as White Rock Pass, is a mountain pass on National Highway 6 between Tan Lac and Mai Chau in Phu Tho Province, northwestern Vietnam. Situated at about 1,000 meters elevation, it is notable for its white limestone cliffs, frequent cloud cover, and panoramic views over Mai Chau Valley. The pass is a popular roadside stop for travelers between Hanoi and Mai Chau to enjoy scenery, photography, and local market stalls.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a high mountain roadside viewpoint along National Highway 6 with white limestone rock faces and a wide overlook of the Mai Chau Valley and surrounding mountains. The summit area has a small open market with stalls selling local snacks such as com lam, grilled meats, and corn, plus souvenirs. The area is often misty and windy, with parking space for cars and motorbikes and photo spots overlooking the valley below.
Key highlights
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Panoramic viewpoint over Mai Chau Valley from about 1,000 meters elevation
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Distinctive white limestone cliffs that give the pass its White Rock name
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Hilltop market stalls selling com lam, grilled skewers, and local produce
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Frequent sea of clouds and misty scenery, especially in early morning
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Popular photo stop on the Hanoi - Mai Chau route along National Highway 6
History of Thung Khe Pass
Thung Khe Pass is a historic section of National Highway 6, the main road linking Hanoi and the northwestern region, long used as a strategic transport route through the mountains between the lowlands and Mai Chau - Son La area.
Culture & Context
The pass summit hosts a small market run by local Thai and Muong ethnic communities, offering traditional foods and agricultural products, reflecting the local mountain culture of the Mai Chau area.
Route
| By air | Nearest major airport is Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, then continue by road to Mai Chau |
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