Travel Guide to Phaboun Cave

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, start from the nearest major city, which is Savannakhet. Head north on Route 9 for approximately 150 km until you reach the junction with Route 13 in Thakek. Continue on Route 13 north for about 70 km, then take a left turn onto Route 12 towards Ban Nampè. Follow Route 12 for about 30 km until you reach Ban Nampè. Phaboun Cave is located just outside the village, at coordinates 18.941416, 102.337596. Make sure to have a GPS or a map handy, as some local signs may not be in English.

• Public Transportation (Bus)

  To reach Phaboun Cave via public transport, take a bus from Vientiane to Thakek. Buses leave regularly from the Vientiane Southern Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours. Once in Thakek, find a local bus or tuk-tuk that can take you to Ban Nampè, which is about 70 km. Upon arriving in Ban Nampè, you can either walk or hire a local guide to take you to Phaboun Cave, which is about 5 km from the village. Make sure to ask for the price in advance, as tuk-tuk fares can vary.

• Tuk-Tuk

  If you are already in Ban Nampè, the most convenient way to reach Phaboun Cave is by hiring a local tuk-tuk. You can find tuk-tuks near the village center. The ride to Phaboun Cave will take approximately 15-20 minutes and should cost around 30,000 to 50,000 LAK. Make sure to agree on the fare beforehand. Alternatively, you can also walk if you prefer a more adventurous route, but be prepared for a hike.