Buddha Cave

Itinerary

Morning:

Depart Thakhek by tuk tuk and follow an old French railway track destined for Vietnam but never finished. Continue through impressive scenery, and arrive in Ban Nakhang Xang to meet the village guides, who lead the trek.

Trek through secondary forest, while the guide points out forest products that provide the local people with significant food resources. The trail passes through a cave that exits into a striking valley surrounded by towering cliffs and forest.

The trail follows the shoreline of Nong Thao Lake, where trekkers can see local fishermen at work. At Tham Nong Paseum Cave, the adventurous can swim into the 400-metre-long cavern and explore its dramatic stalactites and stalagmites.

Back in daylight, the trip continues to Khammouane's famous Buddha Cave for a traditional Lao lunch of Mekong fish, sticky rice and spicy papaya salad.

Afternoon:

After lunch, climb a bamboo stairway to the Buddha Cave, which was rediscovered in April 2004. The cave contains 229 bronze Buddhas that are said to be over 300 years old.

If time permits, travel by local canoe into the water cave below. The guide will then escort trekkers back to the village following a different route through the forest, before returning to Thakek in the late afternoon.

Booking

  • Contact the Khammouane Guide Service Unit at (+856-51) 212-512
  • You may also contact Southep Phoochana, advisor in Khammaoune, atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Facilities & Food

  • Common bathroom facilities available in the village only (not on the trail).
  • Local Lao cuisine. Typical meal includes chicken, soup, sticky rice, vegetables and chili.
  • Vegetarian food is available upon request.

Level of Difficulty & Safety

Moderate : Requires hiking and some swimming. Trekkers must be in good physical shape.

What to bring

Good shoes for hiking, mosquito repellent, headlamp, sunscreen/hat, camera, money to purchase handicrafts. Please wear long pants and shirt with sleeves during the trek.

Includes

Local meal, water, transport to/from Khammouane, local guide(s) & English speaking guide, entrance fees and life jacket.

Find out more information on Khammouane province.