Departing from PanHou Village, we follow quiet, gentle backroads that trace a winding river and pass through jungle-covered mountains. The pace is relaxed, allowing time to interact with friendly locals, encounter ethnic tribes tending their buffalo on lush farmland, and observe villagers working narrow, terraced rice fields along tranquil riversides.

The route is both picturesque and rewarding, with occasional challenging passes and breathtaking views of the highlands. We continue riding until we merge with the sealed DT177 road, where we begin the ascent to the renowned Heaven Gate Pass—a climb that offers the sensation of cycling above the clouds, surrounded by dramatic, panoramic landscapes.

This region of Hoang Su Phi is famed for its pristine natural beauty and traditional lifestyles. It's one of Vietnam’s most remote East-West regions, where many ethnic communities still cultivate rice using age-old methods passed down through generations.

After conquering the pass, we ride over rolling hills and continue along undulating, winding roads that weave through remote villages. The terrain trends gently downhill until we reach the junction with Highway. From there, we turn left and continue riding toward Ha Giang, where a support vehicle will transfer us to town in the late afternoon.