Joanna James
One of the most fascinating things about Thailand is its caves off the coastline. There are thousands and some haven't even been properly explored yet. Still, each of these caves has a history, a legend, a story behind them. Here are our top five caves you should visit when in Thailand.
Located in between spectacular beaches and scenic natural beauty, Tham Khao Luang cave is considered to be the best cave to visit in Thailand so if you have time only for one cave on your agenda make it this. The cave has been converted into a temple and this was carried out during the reign of King Rama V in honour of his ancestors. The cave is open to public viewing from 7 am to 7 pm and is located in Thongchai, Mueang Phetchaburi District.
Located only about 45 minutes away from the south side of Hua Hin, Phraya Nakhon is considered yet another of the phenomenal caves of breath-taking beauty. It is situated in the middle of the Khao Sam Rot Yot National Park and has white sandy beaches, emerald forests and mountainscapes among its many jewels. The cave is made up of two chambers and the main one is the spectacle on which stands a pavilion illuminated by sunlight streaming in from above. It is open from 8 am to 4 pm.
Tham Lod is only about 40 minutes away from southern Pai and is a location that holds a lot of archaeological significance as it does natural beauty. Teak coffins that contain the remains of the Lawa people were found in these caves and date back over thousands of years. You can explore the cave with the aid of a guide but not on your own as navigating it can be a little dangerous. Tham Lot is located in the Pang Mapha District.
Reaching a height of over 200 feet, Tham Lum Khao Ngu Aka is home to one of the tallest columns in the world that are situated within a cave. As such the whole effect the cave gives is nothing short of spectacular. The column is said to look like the biggest church organs you have ever seen. It is true that it would absolutely take your breath away. Tham Lum Khao Ngu Aka is situated in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park and is about an hour's drive from Maitria Rama 9 Hotel so you can visit the caves and be back for a grand dinner at the best Thai restaurant in Bangkok.
Mae Lana cave is the longest cave in Thailand at a whopping 12 km. It is mostly the easiest to navigate for a cave of its size and as it is home to a river system you need to row bamboo boats in order to explore it. This too is another cave where you are required to have a guide with you.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
