Tham Chang Cave
ຖ້ຳຈັງ
A large limestone cave in the cliffs south of town, used in the 19th century as a hideout from invaders, with a platform at the entrance overlooking the Nam Song River and the town.
Tham Chang (also spelled Tham Jang) sits in the cliffs by the Nam Song River about 1.5 km south of Vang Vieng, making it the most accessible cave in town. Local legend says residents once hid inside from bandit raiders in the 19th century, and the cave's entrance is easy to defend. Roughly 150 steps lead up to the mouth. Inside, a lit walkway passes stalactites and stalagmites in all kinds of shapes, including a rock formation whose shape is said to bring good luck. The viewing platform at the entrance looks out over the Nam Song River, rice fields and the town. At the foot of the cliff is a pool of cool spring water flowing from the cave, good for a swim on a hot day. There is a small entrance fee in kip, and access is via a small bridge through the resort grounds. Allow about 1 hour. Getting there: it's a 15–20 minute walk or bike ride from the town center, following the river south.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–16:30
Nearby sights
- Nam Song River
- Vang Vieng Walking Street & Night Market
- Vang Vieng Hot Air Balloon
- Pha Poak
- Pha Ngern Viewpoint (Silver Cliff)
- Blue Lagoon
- Nam Xay Viewpoint
- Kaeng Nyui Waterfall