Khau Luong Pass – a mountain route on National Highway 4A through the homeland of Be Van Dan
Along National Highway 4A, which connects Phuc Hoa with Ha Lang, a mountain pass winds through the hills of Be Van Dan Commune, revealing the dramatic mountain scenery of eastern Cao Bang. Locals call it Khau Luong Pass. It may not be as famous as some of the province’s legendary passes, but Khau Luong has a well-maintained road, spectacular views, and lies in the homeland of a national hero. It’s a good reason to slow down as you pass through.
Where is Khau Luong Pass?
The pass is in Be Van Dan Commune, along National Highway 4A toward Ha Lang. The highway runs for about 13 km through the commune. Since it was paved, cars and motorbikes have been able to travel along it easily, day and night, bringing a boost to local life.
In the Tay and Nung languages, “khau” means mountain or pass. The name reflects the hilly terrain of the area.
An easy drive with spectacular scenery
Travelers who have crossed the pass say this stretch of National Highway 4A has a fairly good road surface and convenient roadside facilities, making it easy to drive. The scenery on both sides is widely praised for its grandeur and beauty.
This pass suits a range of travelers: first-time road trippers can feel confident behind the wheel, while scenery lovers can take their time and stop to admire the mountains and forests. Higher up, the views open onto the limestone ranges characteristic of the UNESCO Global Geopark Non Nuoc Cao Bang, interspersed with valleys, fields, and villages.
Things to do at Khau Luong Pass
Enjoy the drive: Take it slow, roll down the windows, or pull over somewhere spacious to feel the mountain breeze and admire the layers of distant peaks.
Take photos: The winding bends through the hills make for beautiful shots. Light mist in the morning and the slanting afternoon sun bring the mountain ridges into focus.
Stop for a break: Thoong Rung Waterfall is nearby, with a restaurant right beside it—an easy place to rest and have lunch before or after crossing the pass.
The homeland of national hero Be Van Dan
Crossing Khau Luong means traveling through the homeland of national hero Be Van Dan, a Tay man born in 1931 in Quang Vinh Commune, now Be Van Dan Commune, to a poor family with a strong revolutionary tradition.
In January 1948, he volunteered for military service. In 1953, at just 21, he used his own body to brace a machine gun so his comrades could defeat enemy forces in the Battle of Muong Pon, contributing to the victory at Dien Bien Phu. Streets and schools across the country bear his name.
In 2020, Trieu Au Commune merged with part of Hong Dai Commune to form the new Be Van Dan Commune. On December 8, 2023, the Be Van Dan Memorial Site in his homeland was recognized as a provincial-level historical site.
As you travel through the pass, you can stop by the Memorial House to pay your respects to the national hero.
Combine it with a visit to
- Thoong Rung Waterfall: a refreshing cascade with a restaurant right beside it, near the pass.
- Be Van Dan Memorial House: a provincial-level historical site.
- Luoc Dac Plateau: a series of rolling hills blanketed in green grass and a rewarding trekking destination. To get to Luoc Dac, ask for directions at Ban Co Market in Bac Vong Hamlet, Be Van Dan Commune.
Best time to visit
Autumn (September to November) is the best time to cross the pass and take in the mountain views, with dry weather, gentle sunshine, and clear visibility. Spring brings early morning mist and lush greenery. Take extra care during the rainy season, when the road can become slippery and landslides are possible.
Tips for driving the pass
- Drive slowly and stay in your lane; sound your horn on blind bends.
- Never stop on a bend to take photos; find a safe, spacious place instead.
- Turn on your headlights in fog or after dark.
- Check your brakes and tires before descending.
- Help preserve the scenery: don’t litter along the road.
Final Thoughts
Khau Luong Pass doesn’t demand expert driving skills, but rewards you with the majestic mountain scenery of eastern Cao Bang. As you travel through this land, remember that it is the home of a 21-year-old hero who used his own body as a gun mount. One mountain pass, one story—enough to make your journey more meaningful.
