Tham Hoi

Snail Cave


Useful Information

Location: Near Vang Vieng. South of the city, on the other side of the river.
Open: no restrictions.
[2008]
Fee: free.
[2008]
Classification: SpeleologyKarst cave
Light: bring torch
Dimension: L=4000 m.
Guided tours:
Photography:
Accessibility:
Bibliography:
Address: Green Discovery Laos, Hang Boun Rd, Ban Hay Sook, Vientaine, Laos P.o Box 9811, Tel: +856-21-264528, Fax: +856-21-218373. E-mail: contact
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then.
Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

1945 used as an air raid shelter from the French.
1960s used as an air raid shelter from the Americans.

Description

Tham Hoi (Snail cave) is an undeveloped cave, which is visited on two hour cave trekking tours. The cave is said to be some four kilometers long. Although not closed it is recommended to visit the cave on the day trips offered by Green Discovery Laos. A legend tells us why:

One day a lone tourist visited the cave alone. He must have lost his way and could not find the way out again. He was alone, so he was not missed, but after some time the people mentioned the moped which waited at the entrance.

Actually we are not astonished by this story, as the first things cavers learn is to never go alone and always tell someone where you go and when you intend to be back.

The cave tour is advertised for the swim at the end of the winding passages. A crystal clear spring at the rear reversal point of the trip is lighted by candles. The participants are allowed to swim in the cool water after the one hour underground walk. The the tour returns. And of course the trip is completed by another swim in the pool at the mouth of nearby Tham Nam (Water cave).