Khau Cốc Chà Pass in Bảo Lạc, Cao Bằng is also known as the 15-level pass, considered one of the most treacherous mountain passes in the northern region.

Khau Cốc Chà is located on National Route 4A, approximately 2.5 km long but has up to 14 “hairpin turns,” forming 15 steep levels that are extremely dangerous. This pass follows the vertical rise of Cốc Chà mountain, connecting Xuân Trường commune with Bảo Lạc town, Bảo Lạc district.

According to the locals, in the Tày ethnic language, “Khau” means pass, and Cốc Chà is the name of a Tày village at the top of the pass, as well as the name of a type of tree that grows abundantly in this area, which is why the pass is named Khau Cốc Chà.

It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk along the mountainside under the lush green forest canopy to reach the viewpoint of the entire pass. From the mountainside looking down, the entire pass winds like a giant snake amidst nature. We are even more impressed by the extraordinary will and determination of humans in mastering nature, transforming the small rural road into a majestic pass, a unique tourist product that attracts many visitors for sightseeing and experiences, especially “adventurers” who enjoy exploration and adventure tourism.