Vieng Xai Caves: A Journey into Laos's Secret City
Discover Laos's secret wartime city: Explore the historic Vieng Xai Caves and learn about resilience amidst stunning landscapes.
The Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre serves as the gateway to a network of nearly 500 caves that sheltered over 23,000 people during the Second Indochina War. Explore this 'hidden city' and learn about the resilience and strategic importance of the caves, which once housed hospitals, schools, and government offices.
A brief summary to Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre
- Unnamed Rd, Viang Xai, LA
Local tips
- Tours depart at 9 am and 1 pm from the Visitor Centre. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the cave interiors can be cool and require some walking.
- Consider renting a bicycle to explore the caves, as they are spread out and require transportation between them.
- The ideal time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) for cooler weather and optimal exploration conditions.
Getting There
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Walking
The Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre is located on Unnamed Rd in Vieng Xai. From most guesthouses or the Vieng Xai bus station, the center is easily accessible by foot. The town is small and walkable. Follow the main roads towards the center of town; the visitor center is well-signed. Once at the visitor center, you can book a tour and receive guidance on reaching the individual caves, some of which are a few minutes' drive away. Note: Walking tours of the caves are also available.
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Public Transport
To reach the Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre from Sam Neua, take a songthaew (shared taxi) or bus from the Nathong Bus Station. The journey takes approximately one hour and costs around 20,000 kip. Alternatively, long-distance buses from Sam Neua to the Vietnam border pass by the Highway 6 junction, about 1 km outside of Vieng Xai town. From the Vieng Xai bus station or the Highway 6 junction, the Visitor Centre is easily accessible by foot or a short tuk-tuk ride. Tuk-tuk from the bus station to the centre costs around 3,000 Kip.
Discover more about Vieng Xai Caves Visitor Centre
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