Buddha cave : 1-day caving & exploring with trained local Ecoguides
Operated by : Khammouane Guide Service

Khammouane Province
Supported by the LNTA-ADB Mekong Tourism Development Project

 Description

This is a one day trek to Khammouane's famous Buddha Cave, which follows a forested trail to nearby caves and villages. The trek is led by trained local Ecoguides who will teach you about local plants and forests along the way, as well as tell the stories of the caves that you will visit. For the adventurous traveler there is an opportunity to swim through a cave. Included is a Lao lunch at  the Buddha cave.

Itinerary

Morning:

Departing Thakhek by Tuk-tuk, you will follow the old French railway track that was destined for Vietnam but was never finished. Continuing through impressive scenery, you arrive in the village of Ban Nakhang Xang and meet the village guides who will escort you on your trek. Passing through secondary forest your guide will point out forest products that form an important part of local people's food resources. Going through a cave, you enter a striking valley with towering cliffs and forest. The trail follows the shoreline of Nong Thao Lake where you can see local fishermen at work. On arrival at Tham Nong Paseum cave more adventurous swimmers can explore the cave. The cave is 400 metres long and contains dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Back in daylight, the trip continues onto Khammouane's famous Buddha cave for a traditional Lao lunch of Mekong fish, sticky rice and spicy papaya salad.

Afternoon:

After lunch you now climb the 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! Time permitting you will also be able to travel by local canoe into the water cave below. Your guide will now escort you back to the village following a different route through the forest, and you will return 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, at southep@hotmail.com

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.