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Xe Bang Fai Cave: A Subterranean Wonder

Discover Xe Bang Fai Cave: One of the world's largest river caves, featuring stunning formations and a unique ecosystem in Laos' protected wilderness.

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Xe Bang Fai Cave, also known as Tham Khoun Xe, is a gigantic river cave in Laos' Khammouane Province, famed for its massive scale and stunning geological formations. The Xe Bang Fai River flows through the cave, creating a unique ecosystem and a breathtaking spectacle of nature.

A brief summary to Xe Bang Fei Cave Ticket Office

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight, as some areas inside the cave may be dark and require some walking.
  • The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) when the water levels are lower and the paths are more accessible.
  • Engage with local guides for the best insights into the cave's history, geology, and the surrounding Hin Nam No National Protected Area.
  • Check the weather conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can affect boat rides and access to the cave.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Xe Bang Fai Cave Ticket Office in Ban Gnavèt, the cave entrance is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Follow the well-trodden path leading towards the river. The trail meanders through lush vegetation and past local farmlands, offering a glimpse into rural Laotian life. There are no entrance fees to access the trail. Be prepared for uneven terrain, so wear appropriate footwear.

  • Boat

    Upon arriving at the river near Ban Nong Ping, local boat services offer rides to Xe Bang Fai Cave. Negotiate the fare before boarding. The boat ride typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the water conditions. The cost for a small boat with a guide is around 60,000 LAK. Be prepared for a scenic journey along the river, surrounded by stunning limestone formations and lush greenery.

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Discover more about Xe Bang Fei Cave Ticket Office

Xe Bang Fai Cave, nestled within the Hin Nam No National Protected Area in Khammouane Province, Laos, is a subterranean marvel that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The cave, also known as Tham Khoun Xe by locals, is carved by the Xe Bang Fai River, which runs for approximately 6.4 kilometers through the karst terrain, creating one of the world's largest active river cave passages. The cave's dimensions are staggering, with an average width of 76 meters and a height of 53 meters, ballooning to a maximum width of 200 meters and a height of 120 meters in some sections. This immense scale creates a sense of awe as visitors navigate through the cave's grand chambers. Inside, the cave is adorned with spectacular natural decorations, including flowstone draperies, cave pearls, and gour pools, with some gour pools measuring up to 61m in length. Historically, the cave held significance for local villagers, who believed it to be the source of the Xe Bangfai River and the home of a benevolent spirit. According to local legend, the spirit protected the villagers and could even restore broken items. Today, the cave is managed as a community-based ecotourism venture, providing sustainable livelihoods for the local community. Visitors can explore the cave by boat, with local boatmen offering tours that range from short paddles to longer trips that venture deeper into the cave. A short trip involves paddling about 300 meters into the cave and climbing up to Dragon's Balcony, while the long trip goes 2km into the cave to the rapids. For the adventurous, Green Discovery travel agency provides tours through the full cave with inflating kayaks, with the possibility of camping and trekking from/to the upper entrance.

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