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Nestled in the limestone mountains of central Laos, Tham Khoun Xe Cave is one of the largest caves in the world. With the Xe Bang Fai River flowing through it, the cave is vast and breathtakingly beautiful, promising a unique experience for visitors. Join us as we explore Tham Khoun Xe, uncovering its amazing beauty, quiet atmosphere, and the secrets that make it a unique and exciting place to visit.
Tham Khoun Xe, also known as Xe Bang Fai, is a large river cave located far from Khammouane province in central Laos.
The cave originates from the Annam Trung Sun mountain range on the Vietnam - Laos border, crosses the Nakhai Plateau and flows into the Mekong River. The Nakhai Plateau was formed from large layers of sandstone and carbonate that were dissolved by the river to form Tham Khoun Xe cave as it is today, with an underground channel length of about 7 km.
The entrance to the cave has a 60m high dome in a large area like a terraced amphitheater more than 150m high. The river sections in the cave are about 76m wide and 53m high, but in some areas it exceeds 100m.
The longest river section discovered is 200m long. The passage through the cave is about 4-12m deep. In many places there are stalagmites and stalactites higher than 20m and a few pearls were found in the cave with a diameter of 32cm.
Tham Khoun Xe has been known since 1905 after the discovery trip of a French explorer - Paul Macey.
Tham Khoun Xe is one of the largest and most spectacular river caves in the world. Source: Hinnamno
Before being detected, local people used the cave for fishing downstream, cave port, raising and harvesting bird nests on stone wall areas. However, after 90 years, the cave was closed for an unknown reason since there were no efforts to explore.
In 2005-2006, it was finally opened again for tourists to come and row kayak boats and explore the cave. From then on, many French and Southern American explorers have done research about this area. Up to 2008, Tham Khoun Xe re-examined by a group of researchers from National Geographic, since then, it has become famous all over the world.
According to expedition reports, Tham Khoun Xe Cave is an underground section of the Xe Bang Fai River and is one of the largest river caves in the world, featuring immense chambers up to 120 meters high and 200 meters wide, as well as many impressive geological formations.
Tham Khoun Xe Cave is an underground section of the Xe Bang Fai River. Source: Smithsonian
Tham Khoun Xe in Khammouane, is like a natural wonder, with stalactites rising up to 20 meters high in many different shapes and bright colors. The colorful limestone walls, covered with various plants, stretch out to create a stunning view that amazes anyone who visits.
Legend has it that a local once left some broken musical instruments here and when they returned the next day, they found them repaired. Since then, the locals strongly believe that this place is protected by the gods. To express their respect to the gods and pray for the best, the locals always hold an annual celebration.
Tham Khoun Xe Cave is very mysterious and magical, it will be difficult for you to detect at first sight, that is why the locals here believe that there are living souls in the underground river, which protects the villagers.
The blue light below the kayak makes everything look mysterious like it is on another planet. Everything inside the cave is very quiet, even though it is covered in darkness, it still makes the explorer feel strangely safe and peaceful.
Tham Khoun Xe is like a natural wonder. Source: abcnews
Visitors often explore the cave by kayaking or taking a motorboat. Row through the cave about 300 meters to admire the huge chambers, tall rock formations, and the peaceful atmosphere inside.
Visitors often explore the cave by kayaking or taking a motorboat. Source: Laos Tour
The area around the cave is filled with lush tropical forests, limestone karsts, and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. There are excellent trekking opportunities nearby, where you can explore the surrounding landscape, spot unique plant and animal species, and enjoy the fresh air.
If you want to immerse yourself even further in nature, consider camping near the cave. Sleeping under the stars in this paradise is an unforgettable experience.
Camping nearby is a wonderful way to enjoy nature to the fullest. Source: Amusing Planet
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While Tham Khoun Xe is an adventure in itself, the surrounding villages are also worth exploring. As you pass through the peaceful Lao villages on your way to the cave, take time to connect with the locals. The warm hospitality of the Lao people will make you feel right at home. You can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life, and perhaps even pick up a few words in Lao-locals will appreciate your effort!
You can experience the local culture, traditions, and the warm hospitality of the villagers. Source: Kyluc.vn
The dry season from November to April is the ideal time to visit Tham Khoun Xe Cave, as the water is at its most beautiful emerald green. During the rainy season, the water can rise and boats will have difficulty navigating, making it dangerous to explore inside the cave.
Exploring Tham Khoun Xe is an exciting experience. Through here, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the mysterious and majestic beauty of the largest river cave in Laos and in the world.
Plan your trip to Tham Khoun Xe Cave today and prepare to witness one of Laos's most amazing natural wonders !
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