Tham Lod (Lod Cave)
A 1.6-kilometer limestone river cavern navigated by gas lantern and bamboo raft.
About Tham Lod (Lod Cave)
Tham Lod is one of Southeast Asia's most magnificent natural cave systems. The Nam Lang stream flows directly through the heart of the limestone mountain, carving three massive cavernous chambers: Sao Hin (Giant Pillar Cave), Tukta (Doll Cave), and Pi Man (Prehistoric Coffin Cave). Local Shan and Lahu women guide visitors on foot and on bamboo rafts using vintage pressure-gas lanterns.
The Real Appeal
To glide silently across subterranean river waters in pitch darkness by the golden glow of a lantern, and witness 1,700-year-old teak log coffins preserved in high cavern niches.
What It's Actually Like
Vast, cool, atmospheric, and resonant with the echoes of thousands of Pacific swallows (by day) and bats (by dusk). The air is fresh due to the active river flow.
Field Intelligence & Access
- Canonical Name
- Tham Lod (ถ้ำลอด)
- Alternate Names
- Lod Cave, Tham Nam Lod
- Time Needed
- 2 to 3 hours for the full three-chamber raft and walking circuit.
- Opening Hours
- 08:00 - 17:00 daily
- Fees & Guides
- Local village guide & lantern ~200 THB; Bamboo raft for up to 3 people ~400 - 550 THB.
- Last Checked Date
- 2026-08-14
Access Notes
8.5 km north of Route 1095 via rural road 4001. Paved two-lane mountain road in good condition.
Available Modes of Travel
- Scooter / rental car (15 mins from Soppong)
- Local pickup truck taxi from Soppong market
- Private Waykeeper transfer from Pai or Soppong
Open year-round. In heavy monsoon rains (Aug - Sept), river rafting in the 3rd chamber may be temporarily closed for safety if water levels crest, but Chamber 1 & 2 remain accessible on foot.
Suitable for most travelers of average mobility. Requires stepping onto low bamboo rafts and climbing wooden staircases inside chambers.
Related Places, Routes & Guides
Planning a visit to Tham Lod (Lod Cave)?
Ask our local operator for current trail conditions, driver bookings, or timing advice.