Pak Ou Caves: A Mekong River Sanctuary
Explore the mystical Pak Ou Caves near Luang Prabang, a sanctuary of thousands of Buddha images overlooking the Mekong River.
The Pak Ou Caves, a revered site in Laos, are nestled in a limestone cliff where the Mekong and Ou rivers converge. These caves house thousands of Buddha statues, a testament to centuries of devotion and pilgrimage.
A brief summary to Pak Ou Caves
- 26X6+CGG, Pak Ou, LA
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steps to the upper cave (Tham Theung).
- Bring a flashlight to explore the darker upper cave and discover hidden Buddha statues.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the religious significance of the site.
- Consider packing snacks and water, as there are limited options available at the caves.
Getting There
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Boat
The most common way to reach the Pak Ou Caves is by boat from Luang Prabang. Shared boats depart from a pier near Saffron Coffee on the riverfront (Khem Khong Road) around 8:30 AM. A round-trip ticket costs approximately 75,000 LAK (about $8.50 USD). The upstream journey takes about 2 hours, with a stop at the Lao Lao whiskey village. Private boats can also be hired for around $30-$40 USD. The entrance fee to the caves is 20,000 LAK (about $2.25 USD) per person.
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Tuk-tuk and Ferry
Alternatively, you can take a tuk-tuk to Ban Pak Ou, a village opposite the caves. A tuk-tuk from Luang Prabang costs around 200,000 LAK (about $22.50 USD) for a return trip. From Ban Pak Ou, a short ferry ride across the river to the caves costs 10,000 LAK (about $1.10 USD) per person. This option is less scenic but faster than the boat.
Discover more about Pak Ou Caves
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