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23
Mar
2024

Discover the most majestic cave in Laos

Posted By : Threeland Travel / Laos Travel Guide

When having holidays to Laos, it is common to be awestruck by the country's natural beauty. They might be the high peaks and mountains of Laos, or the vast and lengthy Mekong River. You will get the opportunity to visit various caverns in Laos, each of which has its own distinct charm. For explorers, Threeland Travel will provide an excellent opportunity to appreciate the gift from heaven while staying away from the crowds.

When traveling to Laos, check-in 5 of the most majestic caves

Kong Lor Cave

Kong Kor Cave, located in Khammouane Province, Laos, is a karst limestone cave in Phu Hin Bun National Park. This cave is easily accessible because it is located near Pakse, Champassak Province. It would be ideal if you could visit Kong Lor Cave during your stay in Pakse.

This cave's unique structure is what sets it apart. There is a 7-kilometer-long river, the Nam Hin Bun River, that runs through it, so you may visit and explore the karst limestone interior by canoe.
As soon as you enter the cave, you will notice a new atmosphere: a sense of water showering with magnificent immersion chambers. You are given a life jacket and a head lamp to help you view your surroundings better. Deep inside the cave, there is a sparkling lake that locals consider sacred because it mirrors the skin tone of one Hindu god, Indra.

Tham Nam (Water cave)

Vang Vieng has traditionally been recognized as a dreamland for hiking, trekking, climbing, swimming, and tubing; there are several natural wonders in the surrounding region. Tham Nam stands out as the brightest spot on that list.

The name "Nam Tham" means Water Cave, and while this cave is just approximately 500 meters long, it is plenty of excitement. It originates from Nam Song's tributary and ends at the low entrance. During the rainy season, when the water level rises significantly, tourists can go tubing within and drag a guide rope to go in and out of the cave. With a headlamp, you can admire the cave's magnificence while having a great time. In contrast, during the dry season, you may wade inside the cave, and a minor water fight would be fun!

Tham Phu Kham Cave

It may be unfair to other parts of Laos because Vang Vieng has so many natural beauty locations, a gift from God. We've previously seen Tham Nam Cave (Water Cave), but Tham Phu Kham Cave, located northeast of Ban Na Thong Village, is nowhere to be seen.

The route leading from the entrance to Tham Phu Kham Cave is steep and rocky. It now demands you to hike for around 200 meters; consequently, you should have a pair of hiking sandals that will keep you comfortable during the excursion. As you approach the entryway, you will notice a reclining Buddha statue (as they are common in Laos, where Buddhism is extensively practiced). The statue is illuminated by sunshine shining through the opening hole on top. Buddhist residents gather here every day to pay their respects to their Buddha by burning incense sticks. As you progress farther into the cave, the darker it becomes. You should have a head lamp and appropriate shoes because your hands will be braced against the rock to move your body. Deep down in the cave, you'll discover how little you are in comparison to the stunning natural environment.

Pak Ou Caves

Pak Ou Caves, located near Luang Prabang, Laos' most well-known tourist destination, are the most popular cave in the country. The location and Buddha statue distinguish Pak Ou from the others. Pak Ou, located on the west bank of the Mekong River, is over a thousand years old and consists of two main caves: Tham Ting (lower cave) and Tham Theung (upper cave). Tham Ting is the major attraction, with a few placards explaining the meaning of the Buddha statues and a prayer altar within, but Tham Theung is darker and filled with Buddha statues and pictures of all sizes and shapes. These sculptures have been here for a thousand years since each pilgrim placed a Buddha statue to commemorate their successful and tough trek to the cave.

People have complained that the Pak Ou Caves are overcrowded and there aren't many things to view; however, this also depends on your mode of transportation. Pak Ou Cave is accessible via two modes of transportation: tuk-tuk and boat. If you select boating, your journey will be elevated to new heights thanks to the breathtaking surroundings along both banks of the Mekong River.

Tham Loup and Tham Hoi Caves

These two caverns are not as well-known as the others on the list, but they are ideal for those who wish to experience real natural beauty with minimal artificial ornamentation. Everything is done in the most rudimentary way. Furthermore, during the Vietnam War, the Tham Loup and Tham Hoi Caves served as a safe haven for local residents. After descending a wooden staircase, a massive and unspoiled cavern known as Tham Loup emerges immediately in front of you. Tham Loup is well-known for its gorgeous and valuable stalactites, which are examples of natural art.

Tham Hoi cave (Snail Caves) lies nearby and gets its name from the shape of the structure at the entrance. This one is darker, bigger than the other, and less developed. During the American bombardment, the cave was utilized as a shelter for locals, and there is a Buddha statue to protect the entire area. The structure of the cave resembles a long, narrow corridor. It is advisable to travel with a guide who can explain everything to you.

With 5 caverns listed above, this will be a perfect site for individuals who enjoy adventure tours in Laos. To make the most of planning your holidays to Laos this year, contact Threeland Travel. Specializing in authentic experiences beyond the guidebooks, our local experts can arrange dedicated transportation and guides to unlock the secrets of this legendary plain.