Background

Xe Bang Fai Cave: A Subterranean Wonder

4.7 (55)

Explore Xe Bang Fai Cave in Khammouane Province: a stunning river cave with massive passages, unique formations, and rich biodiversity.

Xe Bang Fai Cave, located in Khammouane Province, Laos, is a magnificent river cave known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The Xe Bang Fai River has carved a 6.4 km path through the karst terrain over millions of years, creating one of the largest active river cave passages in the world.

A brief summary to Xe Bang Fai Cave

  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Xe Bang Fai Cave.

  • Visit during the dry season (October to May) for the best experience, as water levels are lower.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to explore the deeper, unlit parts of the cave.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain and bring water and snacks.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the cave's geology, history, and local legends.
  • Respect local traditions and the environment; avoid touching or damaging cave formations.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Xe Bang Fei Cave Ticket Office

Xe Bang Fai Cave: A Subterranean Wonder
Attraction

Hin Nam No National Park

Discover the Natural Wonders of Hin Nam No National Park
Attraction

Xe Bangfai River

Xe Bangfai River: A Laotian Hidden Gem

Unlock the Best of Xe Bang Fai Cave

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Thakhek, hire a tuk-tuk to Xe Bang Fai Cave. Negotiate the fare with the driver, as the journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Ensure you agree on a return fare. The cost is around 30,000 LAK (approximately $3 USD).

  • Motorbike Rental

    Rent a motorbike in Thakhek for around 60,000 LAK (approximately $6 USD) per day. Head south on Route 12, then turn right onto Route 8. Follow the signs to Xe Bang Fai Cave. Ensure you have a valid driver's license and wear a helmet.

  • Public Transportation

    Take a bus from Thakhek to Nong Bok for approximately 25,000 LAK (about $2.50 USD). The journey takes around 1.5 hours. From Nong Bok, hire a tuk-tuk or motorcycle taxi to Xe Bang Fai Cave, about 15 kilometers away. The tuk-tuk fare is around 30,000 LAK (about $3 USD).

Discover more about Xe Bang Fai Cave

Xe Bang Fai Cave, also known as Tham Khoun Xe, is a natural marvel in the remote Khammouane Province of Laos. This immense river cave features passages reaching up to 120 meters in height and 200 meters in width. The cave is formed by the Xe Bang Fai River, which originates in the Annam Trung Sun Mountains and flows across the Nakhai Plateau.Local villagers have known about the cave for generations, revering it as the source of the Xe Bang Fai River and believing it to be inhabited by a benevolent spirit. Legend says the spirit would lend clothes for ceremonies and even restore broken musical instruments. The cave remained virtually unknown to the outside world until French explorers Paul Macey and his team explored it in the early 20th century. In 2008, a National Geographic survey brought the cave to international attention.Inside, visitors can witness breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, flowstones, and cave crystals. The cave is navigable by boat for about 2 km until encountering rapids. The scale of the limestone chamber is awe-inspiring, with unique natural decorations. The cave also houses a unique ecosystem, including a significant bat population.

Explore the best of what Xe Bang Fai Cave has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Central Laos

File:Water reflection of a landscape with colorful sky and karst mountains in a paddy field at sunset Vang Vieng Laos.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Explore Central Laos: A Journey Through Vientiane's Temples, Vang Vieng's Caves, and Thakhek's Ancient Wonders.

Tell me more about Central Laos
Attraction

Discover the culinary delights of The Duck Stop in Quang Binh, where every dish is a taste of local tradition and flavor.

The Duck Stop
Attraction

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

Xe Bang Fei Cave Ticket Office

Select Currency