“The main highlight is the “Theater of Light,” where golden sunlight streams through the cave ceiling in the afternoon. Inside, a river runs through the wide cave halls with living stalactites and stalagmites (Active Cave).”
Mae Usu Cave is located within Mae Usu Cave Forest Park. It is a limestone river cave where the Mae Usu River flows in from the entrance and exits at the rear. The cave consists of 3–4 large interconnected halls, featuring unique stalactites and stalagmites, including formations resembling Buddha figures, ice curtains, and natural pillars that continue to grow with dripping water.
The cave is internationally known for the “Theater of Light,” visible most clearly between 2:00–3:00 PM. Sunlight passes through ceiling shafts at an angle, illuminating the rocks and mist inside, creating stunning, theatrical beams.
The cave's ventilation is excellent due to multiple openings to the surface, making exploration comfortable and suitable for light adventure and nature tourism.
How to Get There
By Car:
- From Mae Sot, take Highway 105 (Mae Sot–Mae Sariang) towards Tha Song Yang, passing Ban Mah Lah Refuge Center, for a total distance of approximately 90 km. Shortly after passing Tha Song Yang town, follow signs to Mae Usu Cave Forest Park on the left and drive another 2 km on paved roads to reach the park entrance.
Travel Tips
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Best time to visit: December–January, when sunlight angles create the clearest and most beautiful beams.
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Guided access only: Visitors must use park staff with traditional lanterns (Torches) for safety and better photography lighting.
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Health precautions: Sensitive visitors should wear masks due to the presence of many bats.
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Footwear: Wear water shoes or secure sandals as walking through water up to knee level is required.
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Important warning: Do not enter during the rainy season (May–October) due to sudden flooding risks.
Admission Fee:
- Entrance: Free (may require registration according to park regulations)
- Suggested tip for guides: 100–300 THB per group, voluntary
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 08:30 – 16:30
- Recommended to arrive before 2:00 PM to prepare for the best sunlight display.