Tham Chang and the Spring Below

A cave of stalactites high in a cliff just outside town, once a refuge from bandits, with a cool, clear spring at its foot for a swim afterwards.

Area

Karsts & caves

Start from

Vang Vieng town

Distance

about 2 km south of the centre

Time needed

2–3 hours

Best season

Year-round; a good choice in the rain

Difficulty

Easy

Transport

On foot or by bicycle

Tickets & rules

Small entry fee and bridge toll

Why go

Tham Chang is the easiest of Vang Vieng’s caves to reach and one of the most rewarding. You cross a footbridge over the river, walk through a small park, and climb a long concrete staircase up the cliff to the cave mouth. From the top, a balcony opens over the valley, with the river, the town and the karsts spread below.

Inside, lit paths lead through chambers of stalactites, stalagmites and glittering flowstone, with a few Buddha images and shrines along the way. It is not the wildest cave in the area, but it is comfortable, atmospheric and safe, and a perfect introduction.

At the foot of the cliff, a spring flows out of the rock into a clear pool. After the climb, sitting with your feet in the cold water, or swimming into the small cave mouth where it emerges, is one of the simple pleasures of Vang Vieng.

The story

Tham Chang is usually translated as steadfast cave, and its name is tied to its history as a place of refuge. Local tradition says that in the nineteenth century villagers sheltered here from bands of Chinese Haw raiders, who roamed parts of northern Laos and plundered villages.

From its high entrance, the cave gave a perfect lookout over the valley and could be defended easily. Ladders and paths were used to reach it, and food and water were stored inside. The spring at its foot provided water even in the dry season.

In later decades the cave was developed for visitors, with steps, lights and walkways installed. The terrace at the cave mouth, with its sweeping view over the river, became one of the best-known photo spots in the area.

The spring itself is part of the great underground water system that runs through the karst. Its temperature stays fairly constant year-round, so it feels icy on hot afternoons and pleasantly fresh in the cool season.

Getting there

Tham Chang is about 2 km south of the town centre. Walk or cycle along the main road and follow signs towards the river and the footbridge, where a small toll is collected. The cave entrance is a short walk beyond.

The staircase to the cave has more than a hundred steps; take your time.

A suggested plan

1. 9:00Walk or cycle from town and cross the footbridge over the Nam Song.
2. 9:30Climb the stairs to the cave mouth and enjoy the view from the balcony.
3. 10:00Walk through the lit chambers inside the cave.
4. 11:00Come down to the spring for a swim or a rest with your feet in the cold water.
5. 12:00Return to town for lunch.

Where to stay

Stay in central Vang Vieng; the cave is close enough to walk to.

Good to know

• Bring a swimsuit and towel for the spring.
• The cave is cool; a light layer is welcome after the climb.
• Go in the morning or late afternoon for softer light on the valley.
• Combine it with the riverside walk back to town.