Tham Xang


Famous for its stalagmite ‘elephant head’, which is found along a small passage behind the large golden Buddha, this is one of the closest caves to Tha Khaek (it's about 4km away). Bring a torch.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Tham Pa Seuam

3.18 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…

2. Tham Xieng Liap

3.33 MILES

Turning off Rte 12 at Km 14 (before a bridge) you'll come across a sign pointing to this cave. Follow the dirt track south for about 400m near the village…

3. Tham Pa Fa

3.33 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…

4. Clock Tower

5.41 MILES

This clock tower stands prominently in the centre of town.

5. Wat Okat

5.41 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…

6. Mekong Walking Street

5.41 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…

7. Wat Maha That

5.48 MILES

The 24m-tall, gold-and-white Phra That Nakhon chedi here resembles the previous chedi built at That Phanom.

8. Wat Si Thep

5.59 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…