Nam Lod Cave or Pha Khong Cave "Pha Khong Cave" by the locals, is a natural tourist attraction located in Pa Hung Subdistrict, Phan District, Chiang Rai Province. The surrounding area remains relatively pristine, surrounded by forests, mountains, and small streams, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for those seeking a close connection with nature. The cave's most distinctive feature is the natural stream flowing through it, giving it its name, "Nam Lod Cave" (meaning "stream-flowing cave"). Inside, the cave is cool and humid year-round and features limestone cavities formed by thousands of years of underground water erosion, creating natural waterways and chambers within the mountain.

Inside the cave, you can find naturally formed stalactites and stalagmites, created by the accumulation of minerals from water continuously dripping through the limestone layers. Some formations are unique and reflect the long-standing geological processes involved in their creation. Tourists exploring the cave will experience cool air, the soothing sound of flowing water, and a peaceful atmosphere unlike typical tourist spots. Some areas of the interior surface are damp and slippery due to moss, so caution is advised during exploration, especially during the rainy season when water levels inside the cave may rise higher than usual.

The area surrounding Tham Nam Lod Cave clearly reflects the forest ecosystem of northern Thailand, including native plants, small animals, and a humid forest environment that helps maintain the integrity of natural water sources. The streams flowing through the cave play a vital role for the local community, both in agriculture and in maintaining the ecosystem's moisture. Some locals still use the area around the cave for recreation or as a nature study site, making it a valuable place for both its natural beauty and the local community's way of life.

Although Tham Nam Lod Cave is not a large-scale tourist attraction or heavily developed commercially, its charm lies in its peaceful and highly natural environment. Most tourists who visit are those who enjoy nature tourism, photography, cave exploration, or those seeking escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Access to the area may involve some village roads or rural routes, so it's advisable to check road conditions in advance, especially during the rainy season when roads may be slippery and waterlogged.

The best time to visit Tham Nam Lod Cave is during the winter and summer months, as the weather is milder and the water level inside the cave is manageable. While the natural beauty is particularly lush and beautiful during the rainy season, extra caution is needed regarding water levels and safety. Tourists should bring hiking shoes, a flashlight, and non-slip equipment. This includes helping to keep the area clean, not littering, and avoiding direct contact with the stalactites and stalagmites, in order to help preserve the natural state of the cave for future generations.

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How to Get There

• From Chiang Rai city, take Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) towards Phan District. Once in Phan, follow local routes towards Pa Hung Sub-district. Private vehicles or rental cars are recommended, as public transport does not reach the cave entrance directly. Checking maps or asking locals for directions is advised, as parts of the route may be village roads.

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Travel Tips

• Visit in the morning or early afternoon for safer exploration.

• Wear non-slip shoes suitable for wet and slippery surfaces.

• Bring a flashlight if planning to explore deeper inside the cave.

• Avoid visiting during heavy rain or immediately after rainfall.

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Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) Visiting during the daytime is recommended for safer travel.