Tham Khao Chang Hai, Trang

“The legend of a baby elephant disappearing into the cave, which is the origin of the name, six large cave chambers with distinct characteristics”

Tham Khao Chang Hai is a large limestone cave located within a small mountain, surrounded by lowland areas and lush green rice fields of Na Muang Si Subdistrict. The cave is associated with a legend passed down since the time of the restoration of Phra Borommathat Chedi in Nakhon Si Thammarat. During a pilgrimage procession carrying valuables for the ceremony, the group stopped in this area, and a young elephant playfully ran into the cave and disappeared. Although the mahout was able to retrieve the elephant once using incantations, a shout from villagers caused the spell to lose its power. The elephant then ran back into the cave and was never seen again, giving rise to the name “Khao Chang Hai” (the Lost Elephant Mountain).

Inside the cave are approximately six main chambers connected to one another, with well-constructed walkways consisting of ramps and concrete stairs. Lighting is installed throughout the route, which has a total length of approximately 850 meters. Visitors will be amazed by the living stalactites and stalagmites, which are still forming and continuously nourished by dripping water, creating a sparkling effect when illuminated by lights. Each chamber has its own distinctive features, such as Tham Sai Thong with its fine white sand, or Tham Lom, which remains cool and well-ventilated at all times.

One of the most important highlights is a group of rock formations resembling a family of elephants, especially the formations that look like an elephant’s head and trunk in a golden-yellow hue. Visits are often guided by local guides or youth guides, who explain and interpret various rock formations through imaginative storytelling, such as mermaids, palaces, or Buddha images, adding color and memorable experiences to the visit. In addition, the area surrounding the cave offers beautiful views of rice fields, making it suitable for relaxation and photography of the local rural lifestyle of Na Muang Si.

How to Get There

By private car: From Trang city, take the Trang–Phatthalung Road (Highway No. 4) toward Nayong District. Upon reaching the district, look for signs to Na Muang Si Subdistrict and turn onto the Nayong–Ban Khuan Sawan Road. Drive for approximately 5–7 kilometers, and Khao Chang Hai will be visible standing prominently in the middle of the rice fields.

By public transportation: Take a Trang–Phatthalung minivan and get off at Nayong Market. From there, hire a motorcycle taxi or a three-wheeled motorized taxi (tuk-tuk) to the cave.

Travel Tips

Currently, the cave is open for visits in scheduled rounds to ensure safety and proper air circulation (for example at 09:00, 11:00, 13:30, and 15:00).