TOURISM-TRAVEL: VIENTIANE, Laos- More visitor facilities provided at Vangvieng’s caves
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Vangvieng district authorities are providing more facilities and activities at Tham Non and Tham Nang Far caves in Huaysa-ngao village, in anticipation of a large influx of visitors.
Vangvieng district Governor Mr Bounchan Malavong told Vientiane Times that one of the new additions was a zip-line between the two caves, while visitors could also enjoy hikes through the hills and drink in panoramic views.
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A restaurant, toilets, huts, and a campsite will also be built near the Song River, which local authorities hope to complete soon.
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The provision of new facilities around the caves will cost at least 30 billion kip, paid for by a local company, Mr Bounchan said.
Tham Nangfar cave was officially opened to visitors in 2019. Because of its proximity to Tham Non cave, it’s convenient to visit both at the same time.
As well as providing more attractions for visitors, Vangvieng authorities are working to improve tourist sites, improve service quality service, and upgrade roads leading to tourist sites.
The popular rural getaway is experiencing a surge in visitors following the opening of the Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway in December, with many people going to the area on day trips.
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Many people don’t stay at hotels or guesthouses but head for the hills, caves, river and restaurants. Some hotels and guesthouses are still closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic as the number of foreign tourists has plummeted because of travel restrictions.
The authorities are also taking stock of restaurant operations at visitor attractions and checking food prices. Many people have complained that these restaurants charge an exorbitant amount, Mr Bounchan said, and this will be investigated.
Vangvieng is within easy reach of Vientiane and the journey takes only 90 minutes using the Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway. The region offers a wide range of activities in addition to its natural beauty and intriguing landscape, including monthly festivals.
The Song River is one of the main attractions and visitors can rent a kayak, an inner tube or a boat for a relaxing and lazy day on the river. Chang and Poukham caves, lagoons, zip-lines and the Kaeng Nyui waterfall are also high on the list of attractions.
Last year visitor numbers were recorded at just over 80,000, down about 35 percent on the previous year because of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a Vangvieng district official.
By Siladda Souliyong
(Latest Update February 12, 2021)
