Kao Rao Cave 1-day exploration

Operated by : Vieng Phoukha Ecoguide Service
Vieng Phoukha District, Luang Namtha Province

Morning - Nature Trail

Depart at 8:30 in the morning from the Eco-Guide Service office by pick-up or tractor (tok-tok) and head east on the main road to Luang Namtha. Arrive at Ban Nam Eng, a traditional Khamu village, where we meet our village-based guide. From Ban Nam Eng we hike to nearby mountains and explore the old-growth forest belonging to the village. After learning about the villagers' use of the forest, we return to Ban Nam Eng, where the villagers host you for a Khamu style lunch..

Afternoon - Cave Exploration

After taking a rest in the village community house, we depart for the cave known as ‘ Oung Kao Rao ' in Khamu language. This cave is said to be at least five kilometers long. However, it could well be longer as very few have ever walked its whole distance. Legend has it that a spirit inhabits the cave which has been known to affect visitors' vision and ability to find their way out. At the entrance of the cave, the village-based guide performs a religious ceremony to appease the spirit of the cave and to ensure our safety. Walk deep into the cave, taking time to wonder at its impressive limestone formations. The pick-up (or tok-tok) is met at the point where we entered the forest. Return to town is in the late afternoon.

Booking

Contact the Vieng Phoukha Guide Service Unit at +856-81-212-400

Level of difficulty

Walking – easy to moderate
Cave – easy to moderate, some slippery areas, no crawling necessary
Distance – 4-5 hours walking

Includes

Local meals prepared by villagers, water, local guide from town, village guide, transport, forest conservation permit, local taxes and cave fee, small donation to the cave spirit.

What to bring

Good shoes for hiking (closed shoes or sandals with straps), flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, mosquito repellent, sunscreen and hat, camera with flash, money to purchase handicrafts

How villages benefit

Local and village guide fees, food sales & preparation

Important do's & don'ts

Do not give individual gifts of sweets or money to children. Ask before taking photos of people. Do not touch limestone formations inside the cave. Help keep the cave clean by not littering. For your safety, please wear the helmets provided when inside the cave. Stay with the guides at all times.