Khoun Kong Leng

Phu Hin Bun NPA & Tham Kong Lor


Nestled amid the limestone karsts of the Phu Hin Bun NPA is Evening Gong Lake. The luminescent green waters spring from a subterranean river that filters through the limestone, making the water crystal clear. Unfortunately, in recent years, development has spoiled some of the natural vibe here. It's about 50km northeast of Tha Khaek.

You must ask at the village before swimming in the lake. Once you get approval, only swim in the stream that flows from the lake, near the wooden footbridge, and not in the lake itself. Fishing is banned.

To get here from Tha Khaek, head north along Rte 13 and turn right (east) at Km 29 onto a dirt road. After 2km, turn right (south) again, and bump up over hills and through villages for 16km until you reach Ban Na Kheu. It's another 1km to the lake.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Phu Hin Bun NPA & Tham Kong Lor attractions

1. Tham Pha Chan

14.45 MILES

Tham Pha Chan has an entrance 60m high and about 100m wide. A stream runs about 600m through a limestone karst and in the dry season it's possible to walk…

2. Tham Pa Fa

15.76 MILES

When Mr Bun Nong used a vine to scramble up a sheer 200m-high cliff in 2004, he discovered a narrow cave mouth and was greeted by 229 bronze Buddha images…

3. Tham Pa Seuam

15.94 MILES

A mini Tham Kong Lor, the river cave of Tham Pa Seuam runs for 3km, spanning some impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It's conveniently only 15km from…

4. Former Governor's Residence Museum

16.74 MILES

Museum Juan, as it's also known, is on the riverfront and fills a beautiful restored 1925 mansion with photos of old Nakhon Phanom, many labelled in…

5. Mekong Walking Street

17.72 MILES

This street market has little in the way of arts and crafts, but there's plenty of souvenirs and, of course, lots of food. The historic buildings give it…

6. Clock Tower

17.78 MILES

This clock tower stands prominently in the centre of town.

7. Wat Okat

17.92 MILES

Predating the town, Wak Okat is home to Phra Tiow and Phra Tiam, two sacred wooden Buddha images covered in gold that sit on the highest pedestal in the…

8. Wat Si Thep

18.29 MILES

This historic temple's bóht (ordination hall) has a lot of flair. It's surrounded by statues of têp (angels) and has a colourful triptych on the back wall…