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Tham Piew Cave: A Memorial to Loss

A poignant memorial site in Laos, Tham Piew Cave stands as a reminder of the tragic consequences of the Second Indochina War and honors the lives lost.

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Tham Piew Cave, located near Muang Kham, is a poignant memorial to a tragic event during the Second Indochina War. In 1968, a U.S. missile struck the cave, where hundreds of villagers sought refuge, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Today, it stands as a place of reflection and remembrance.

A brief summary to Tham Piew Cave

  • MHF9+VCX, Muang Kham, LA

Local tips

  • Take time to learn about the history of Tham Piew Cave before your visit to fully appreciate its significance.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting nearby villages or temples.
  • Bring incense sticks to burn in front of the altar as a sign of respect for the deceased.
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Getting There

  • Car/Motorbike

    From Phonsavan, Tham Piew Cave is approximately 60 km away. Head east from Phonsavan on Route 7, then turn north onto Route 6 towards Muang Kham. From Muang Kham, follow the signs for Tham Piew Cave. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Renting a motorbike in Phonsavan costs approximately 150,000 LAK per day.

  • Tuk-Tuk

    Hire a tuk-tuk from Phonsavan for a direct ride to Tham Piew Cave. Negotiate the price before starting the journey. A tuk-tuk to the airport or bus station typically costs around 50,000 LAK per person. Expect to pay more for a longer trip to Tham Piew Cave.

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Discover more about Tham Piew Cave

Tham Piew Cave is a somber yet compelling historical site located in the Muang Kham district of Xieng Khouang province. This cave is not just a geological formation but a memorial to a tragic event that occurred during the Second Indochina War. On November 24, 1968, a missile struck the cave while it was being used as a shelter by local villagers seeking refuge from bombing campaigns. The attack resulted in the deaths of 374 men, women, and children. Today, Tham Piew Cave serves as a place of remembrance and reflection. Visitors can see the remnants of the attack, including debris and scattered rocks, which serve as a stark reminder of the events that unfolded. A memorial temple with a statue of a sorrowful man cradling a child stands at the foot of the trail leading to the cave, honoring those who perished. Inside the cave, one can find a golden Buddha, a milestone, and a bomb crater, marking the site's tragic history. The cave is open year-round, with the dry season (November to April) being the ideal time to visit due to more pleasant weather. A small visitor center at the base of the mountain provides historical context from a Laotian perspective. The path to the cave includes a series of steps, passing grave markers of the deceased, urging visitors to show respect for the locals and the deceased.

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