Explore Xe Bang Fai, a 12km subterranean river cave in Central Laos. Discover legends and massive karst chambers on this epic adventure.
The first day of your adventure begins with a morning departure from Thakhek, heading toward the storied chambers of Tham Nang Aen. Local legend whispers that this “Cave of Sitting and Flirting” was once the meeting place of a novice monk and the beautiful daughter of a hermit. Today, it remains a refreshing sanctuary where cool breezes drift through striking limestone formations and over a hidden underground lake. As you venture deeper into the mountainous landscape following lunch, you may find yourself wandering through remote villages near the Elephant Cave, named for a rock formation that mirrors a great tusker, to glimpse the traditional lives of local ethnic minorities. This first day concludes around 04:00 PM as you arrive at a homestay near Xe Bang Fai, settling in for a home-cooked meal and a night of traditional Lao hospitality.
The true spirit of the region reveals itself on the second morning, following breakfast at your homestay. You will set out for Xe Bang Fai Cave, a subterranean marvel where a massive river disappears for 12 kilometers beneath rugged karst mountains before re-emerging in a crystal-clear pool near Ban Nong Ping Village. This cathedral of stone, famously brought to the world’s attention by a 2008 National Geographic expedition, stands as one of the largest active river cave passages on the planet, with chambers averaging 76 meters in width and 56 meters in height. Navigating the first two kilometers by boat, you are surrounded by an eerie beauty of flowstones and cave crystals. For those seeking an extra thrill, a climb into the Dragon Hatchery side chamber offers a hauntingly beautiful balcony view of the cave’s massive opening.
Beyond its geological grandeur, the cave, traditionally known as Tham Khoun Xe, or “the cave at the source of the river”, is a place of deep spiritual significance. Villagers believe a protective spirit dwells within, once said to mend broken objects left at the entrance overnight and protect those who gather swallow nests and bats inside. This reverence extends to the emerald resurgence pool outside, a 200-meter-wide pond where local communities carefully conserve fish populations to ensure a sustainable future for the river.
As the second day continues, you begin the return journey toward Thakhek, enjoying the rural landscapes and roadside villages. If time permits, you might pause at the scenic Tad Xieng Lue Waterfall or step into the quiet sanctity of Tham Pa Fa, the “Buddha Cave,” where over 200 ancient statues remain hidden within the limestone. Following a final stop at the tranquil rock formations of Tham Pa Suam, the expedition draws to a close with a 05:00 PM arrival back in the city.
Are you ready to witness the subterranean wonders of Laos? If you are interested in this one-of-a-kind adventure, contact us at sales.laos@khiri.com to begin your descent into Xe Bang Fai.