Kong Lor Cave (Tham Kong Lo)
Reputedly the way through this amazing cave was discovered only in 2004.
There is a village on each side of the mountain and when residents wished to visit the other village they would journey over the top. Although they were aware of the existence of a cave, they had no idea that a navigable, seven kilometre waterway communicated between the two villages.
Very quickly after the connection became known, Kong Lor Cave achieved renown with backpackers worldwide as locals provided longtail boat tours through the darkness from one side of the mountain to the other. It’s a remarkable experience, adventurous yet safe, surreal and satisfying.
A boat trip through Khong Lor Cave is a highlight of any trip to Laos. It is promoted as part of the Thakhek Loop.
The Way Though The Cave
A short walk along a dirt track on the opposite side of the river from the carpark leads the entrance of the cave. Small longtail boats wait on the bank of the river just inside the cave.
Adjust to the gloom,find your ‘ride’ and set off into the darkness.
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- Boats and people at the start.
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- Longtail boats parked up near the start point of the adventure.
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- Midway staging point.
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- Aiming for the tunnel from one cavern to another.
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- The frequency of beaches like this depends on the river level.
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- Without the head lights it was totally dark.
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- Approaching the end of the cave journey.
Natane Village
Natane Village is about a kilometre upstream from the cave.
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- Exiting the cave.
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- On the way to Natane Village.
The small Natane Village purportedly shows the traditional way of life in central Laos, however, it is very much set up for tourists.
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- Weaving loom.
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- Roasting Wild Almonds (Lvingia malayana).
Return Through Cave
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- Just past the entrance to the cave on the downriver journey.
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- Headroom is an issue in some locations.
This an inexpensive, quality ‘soft adventure’ for anyone. The road (track) to the cave is not very friendly.
Since the opening of the Friendship Bridge No. 5 in 2026, the Kong Lor Cave experience is more easily accessed from Thailand. Don’t forget to account for the cost of the visa required to enter Laos.
© Kim Epton 2022-2026
388 words, 22 photographs.
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