Tanva Mekong Cruises

Buddha (Pak Ou) Caves & Kuang Si waterfall

From the pier our boat takes you on a scenic 2.5 hour cruise to the Caves.

The famous Pak Ou (Buddha) caves have played a very important part in the spiritual heritage of Laos. Prior to Buddhism, the local population worshiped the spirits of nature, or Phi. The caves were considered to be associated with the river spirit. By the 16th century, Buddhism was adopted by the royal families of Laos and the caves became an important place of worship for them until the communist revolution of 1975. Every year the King and the people of Luang Prabang made pilgrimage to the caves as part of the new-year religious observances. Artisans were commissioned by the royal family to prepare sculptures. Many of the carvings in the caves date between the 18th and 20th centuries.

There are two caves. The mouth of the main cave, known as Tham Ting, is beautifully visible and accessible from the river via a series of steps. This cave is full of Buddha images of all sizes but mostly classical Luang Prabang standing Buddhas. The second cave is via a longer series of steps going up and around. Take a torch with you to get the best out of visiting this cave.

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Then it's on to Mouangkhay village where you will get local transfer to the Kuangsi waterfall.

Kuang Si Waterfalls is a popular destination for visitors to Luang Prabang. Water tumbles down over tall limestone formations to form a series of tiered pools.

From the falls, turquoise waters continue to cascade through a jungle landscape full of beautiful trees and plants. This public place is well maintained and organised, with walking paths, wooden bridges, shelters and picnic tables throughout. It’s possible to escape the heat and swim in the cool waters.

At the entrance of the park are vendors selling food and drinks. Within the grounds is a small zoo where you can see black bears and other animals.

Swimming and hiking the trails are popular ideas but so is simply relaxing in the beautiful jungle setting.