Tram Ton Pass – Sapa, Vietnam

Perhaps the best view in Sapa is located at Tram Ton Pass, 3 km away from O Quy Ho Pass. A view at the summit will reveal stunning, sweeping panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and forests below.

With a height of over 1,900 meters, Tram Ton Pass is the highest mountain pass in Vietnam and is often referred to as Heaven’s Gate due to its soaring height. Just west of Tram Ton Pass is the even more well-known O Quy Ho Pass. These two high mountain passes help connect Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces.

Overlooking Vietnam’s Highest Mountain Pass

The undisputed highlight of this stunning mountain pass is the viewing platform. That’s where you’ll be able to truly enjoy the scenery and where you’ll meet the majority of people who have also traveled there.

On a clear day, you’ll be able to see for miles upon end. Lush greenery is everywhere and the grand Fansipan Mountain will be towering in your peripheral vision. For a serene, awe-inspiring viewing experience, head to the observation platform and remember to bring your camera.

Silver Waterfall

There are two beautiful waterfalls along Tram Ton Pass and the first one you’ll witness is the 200 meter high Silver Waterfall. Its impressive height and abundance of cascading, transparent water provide visitors with a stunning backdrop to relax and take pictures of. A small entrance fee will allow you to climb the steps adjacent to it.

The Love Waterfall

Love Waterfall, Sapa — Love Waterfall. Photo: Art Purée

Much like its equivalent, the Love Waterfall offers a slice of serene beauty and the delicate sound of crashing water. Unlike the Silver, however, the Love Waterfall is not located next to a road and requires a little more effort to get to. As a result, it’s a lot less busy and crowded.

The Love Waterfall is the smaller of the two, but it still offers a lot of beauty.

Best Time to Visit

The Tram Ton Pass can be visited year-round, but the optimal time to go is in the dry season, which lasts from April to August. Keep in mind, though, that because the pass is so high, temperatures will be considerably colder than it is on the ground. Make sure you don’t underdress and pack a jacket or a suitable pair of trousers.

The clouds can obscure the stunning view from the summit, so ensure you check a weather forecast before departing. The surrounding Hoang Lien National Park makes for a thrilling day of exploration.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better view in Sapa than from the apex of the Tram Ton Pass. Its beautiful forests and mesmerizing waterfalls add another level to the already-beautiful mountain pass.