Little Ma Pi Leng Canyon: The hidden gem of the Ha Giang loop

Little Ma Pi Leng canyon is a stunning, lesser-known stretch of the Ha Giang Loop that offers a serene counterpart to its famous big brother. Located in the majestic Can Ty commune, this scenic pass mimics the grandeur of the Ma Pi Leng Pass with its towering cliffs and emerald river, but without the crowds. This guide uncovers the location, the quiet beauty, and the best ways to experience this "miniature" wonder of the northern highlands.

About Little Ma Pi Leng canyon

While most travelers focus on the main Ma Pi Leng Pass, this smaller canyon offers an equally dramatic landscape on a more intimate scale. It serves as a peaceful interlude on the drive, allowing visitors to appreciate the geology of the plateau away from the tour buses.

Where is it?

The "Little Ma Pi Leng" is actually the Can Ty Pass, located in Can Ty Commune, Quan Ba District, roughly 10-15 kilometers from Quan Ba Heaven Gate. It sits along the road that runs parallel to the Mien River, connecting Quan Ba to Yen Minh. This stretch of road is cut directly into the cliffside, with the vertical rock face on one side and a steep drop to the turquoise river on the other, creating a striking visual similarity to the famous pass in Meo Vac.

When is the best time to visit Little Ma Pi Leng canyon?

Just like the rest of the loop, the best time to drive this pass is during the dry season (October to April). The clear skies highlight the turquoise color of the Mien River below, and the cool weather makes the motorbike ride enjoyable.

Visiting in late autumn (October-November) is particularly beautiful as the surrounding valleys are often dotted with blooming buckwheat flowers. Conversely, the summer rainy season can make the river muddy and the road slippery, detracting from the "canyon" aesthetic.

What's so special about Little Ma Pi Leng canyon?

A miniature masterpiece: The resemblance to the actual Ma Pi Leng is uncanny, featuring the same combination of gray limestone cliffs and a winding emerald river (the Mien River) flowing deep below. However, because the canyon is narrower and the road sits closer to the water, the experience feels more enclosed and intimate, as if you are riding inside the landscape rather than just above it.

A peaceful escape: Unlike the main Ma Pi Leng, which can be crowded with traffic and tourists, the Can Ty pass is often quiet and serene. It offers a moment of solitude where you can cut the engine, listen to the wind whistling through the valley, and watch the Mien River flow without distraction.

Nearby attractions you won't want to miss

The Lonely Tree: Located right on the pass, this massive tree grows seemingly out of solid rock, extending its branches over the precipice. It has become an iconic photo stop for travelers, standing alone against the backdrop of the canyon and symbolizing the resilience of life on the rocky plateau.

Lung Tam Weaving Village: Located just a short detour away along the Mien River, this village is world-famous for its traditional Hmong hemp weaving. It is a perfect cultural stop to combine with the scenic drive of the canyon.

Quan Ba Heaven Gate: You will likely pass this massive viewpoint before reaching the canyon. It is the official entry point to the plateau and offers the famous view of the Twin Mountains.

Yen Minh Pine Forest: Continuing past Can Ty towards Yen Minh town, the landscape shifts from rocky cliffs to rolling hills covered in pine trees. This "mini Dalat" offers a refreshing change of scenery with its cool breezes and soft, pine-needle-covered ground.

Little Ma Pi Leng Canyon proves that size isn't everything when it comes to beauty in Ha Giang. It offers a condensed, quieter version of the region's dramatic geology, complete with its own iconic landmarks and turquoise waters. If you are looking for a hidden corner of the loop to enjoy the silence of the mountains, our team at Custom Asia Travel is ready to show you the way.