Mahaxai Caves and the Khammouane Protected Area
East of Tha Khek is a range of magnificent limestone karst formations and these natural glories are becoming a bigger and bigger draw for the town. The Mahaxai Caves that riddle the jagged mountains and ridges can be done as a day trip either by motorcycle or a tuk-tuk rented for the day. There are many caves, but the most visited is Tham En, named after the huge flocks of sparrows rumored to make this place home. On public holidays this is a popular picnic spot for locals and can get quite busy. Tham Pha In is often considered to be the most dramatic cave. There is a pool inside illuminated by an opening in the cave roof. The water glows emerald and in local folklore evokes the emerald green of the skin of the Hindu God Indra after which it is named. Don't touch the water. It is considered sacred. Mahaxai town is 50km (31 miles) east of the caves and is beautifully located nestled into the spectacular limestone scenery on the banks of the Xe Bang Fai River. It's a great place to simply sit and look at the view. To penetrate the Khammouane Limestone formations further it is best to go an organized tour since the area is remote. For many the Tham Lot Kong Lo Cave is the real highlight of a trip in this area. This is a naturally formed 7km (4 1/3-mile) tunnel running right through a limestone mountain. The river flows through it until one emerges into a hidden valley. As kayaking adventures go this is a magical experience. Don't forget to bring a flashlight and some plastic sandals. In some places the water is shallow and you have to drag your vessel. Most tours will also organize a village stay giving you an insight into daily life in this remote area. There is also an ecoresort in the park, the Sala Hinboun (tel. 041/212-445; fax 041/252-096; www.salalao.com/salalao/content/hinboun.htm). This all-timber offering is situated on the banks of the Hinboun River. Reached by bus and boat, it makes a convenient base from which to explore surrounding villages and caves.
East of Tha Khek is a range of magnificent limestone karst formations and these natural glories are becoming a bigger and bigger draw for the town. The Mahaxai Caves that riddle the jagged mountains and ridges can be done as a day trip either by motorcycle or a tuk-tuk rented for the day. There are many caves, but the most visited is Tham En, named after the huge flocks of sparrows rumored to make this place home. On public holidays this is a popular picnic spot for locals and can get quite busy. Tham Pha In is often considered to be the most dramatic cave. There is a pool inside illuminated by an opening in the cave roof. The water glows emerald and in local folklore evokes the emerald green of the skin of the Hindu God Indra after which it is named. Don't touch the water. It is considered sacred. Mahaxai town is 50km (31 miles) east of the caves and is beautifully located nestled into the spectacular limestone scenery on the banks of the Xe Bang Fai River. It's a great place to simply sit and look at the view. To penetrate the Khammouane Limestone formations further it is best to go an organized tour since the area is remote. For many the Tham Lot Kong Lo Cave is the real highlight of a trip in this area. This is a naturally formed 7km (4 1/3-mile) tunnel running right through a limestone mountain. The river flows through it until one emerges into a hidden valley. As kayaking adventures go this is a magical experience. Don't forget to bring a flashlight and some plastic sandals. In some places the water is shallow and you have to drag your vessel. Most tours will also organize a village stay giving you an insight into daily life in this remote area. There is also an ecoresort in the park, the Sala Hinboun (tel. 041/212-445; fax 041/252-096; www.salalao.com/salalao/content/hinboun.htm). This all-timber offering is situated on the banks of the Hinboun River. Reached by bus and boat, it makes a convenient base from which to explore surrounding villages and caves.
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