Pha Kuang Caves, Nong Khiaw (2024) - Images, Timings

Pha Kuang Caves, Nong Khiaw Overview

Pha Kuang is a natural limestone cave located close to the city of Nong Khiaw in Laos. It consists of two caves known for the centuries-old stalagmite cave formations and Buddha statues. The cave also has an interesting history as places that sheltered soldiers and officers during IndoChina war. It is one of the most popular places for tourists who enjoy adventure and worth visiting for cave formations and also history. The cave is located next to a river, and a section of exploring it involves adventure as you have to navigate through a very narrow space and make way through water and mud.

Tips

The path to the caves is steep and can get slippery. So make sure to wear good shoes.
Avoid having to make your journey in the late evening and carry a torch with you. The torch can also be rented at the place where you get the entry tickets.
You have to walk through mud, so you'll likely get dirty. Carry additional clothes with you.
The area near the cave has few cafes and restaurants, so carry some snacks and water with you.
If you are claustrophobic or afraid of bats and insects, these caves are not for you.

Best time to visit

The best time to arrive at Pha Kuang Cave is in the late afternoon or early in the morning when the weather is pleasant. Since it is very narrow, it can get hot during mid-day. Also, the caves are closed during the monsoon as they get flooded.