Thakhek

Capital city of Khammouane Province, Thakhek is in the mid-south of Laos near the majestic Annamite Mountain Range where the infamous Ho Chi Minh Trail led to Central Vietnam. The town was once an administrative and trading outpost under French occupation, and the colonial ambience is kept alive by the splendid, though dilapidated, colonial buildings and broad tree-lined avenues.

Activities in the area include a trek to Tham Pa Fa, a remote cave in Khammouane's unspoilt countryside housing a collection of 229 bronze Buddhas thought to be over 300 years old. The cave was rediscovered in April 2004, and very few tourists visit the area at this present time. Depart Thakhek by tuk-tuk, following the old French railway track destined for Vietnam but never finished, to the village of Ban Nakhang Xang where the trek begins. The trail passes through secondary forest before entering a cave which opens out onto a striking valley with towering cliffs and forest. Continue along the trail which follows the shoreline of Lake Nong Thao where you will see local fishermen at work. On arrival at Tham Nong Paseum cave more adventurous swimmers can explore the 400m long cave with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Continue to Tham Pa Fa for a tour for a tour of the cave followed by a traditional Lao lunch of Mekong fish, sticky rice and spicy papaya salad.