Exploring Tham Chang Cave

Bugbein is renowned for its scarce mountain ranges, limestone cliffs, scenic paddy fields and captivating blue legumes. In this video, we will embark on an exploration of the enchanting wonders of Pham Chang Cave and discover a hidden blue legume. This cave is located approximately 2 km walk away. Upon entering the resort, you will encounter a gate where an intense speed of 5,000 Lao Kep is required for passage. The cave opens at 8 am and closes at 4 pm. It appears that two rivers from different sources are converging at this location and it is fascinating to see that they have distinctly different colors. We parked our bike and are ready to embark on a thrilling raft ride along the Nam Song River to reach the other side where the cave is located. Once we crossed the river, we took a left turn and followed the pathway alongside the river for about 200 meters. This park is well maintained and there are several resting areas along the pathway. Additionally, there are plants hanging from trellis, creating a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere, especially during the hot summer months. There is an additional fee of 15,000 Lao Kep that needs to be paid at a ticket booth located at the bottom of the cave mountain. To reach the cave, you will need to ascend approximately 150 concrete steps. Before reaching the entrance to the cave, there is a hidden blue legume on the left side. Let's check it out after we finish exploring the cave, so stay till the end. Once you reach the top, you will come across a tunnel-like entrance that leads into the expansive interior of the cave. Tan Chong Cave comprises two levels and contains multiple chambers. The cave is well illuminated and inside, there are stairs with handrails to assist you as you explore. The ceiling of the cave is over 4 meters high and adorned with remarkable cave formations. Stalactites are common cave formations that hang down from the ceiling. They are formed as mineral-rich water drips from above, leaving mineral deposits that gradually accumulate and shape into pointed structures over time. A stalagmite is a rock formation that grows upwards from the cave floor. It forms as materials drift from the cave ceiling and gradually accumulate over time. Cave columns are formed when stalactites and stalagmites merge or fuse together over time. Flowstones are formed by layers of calcium carbonate minerals that develop on cave walls. These formations hang down from the walls and can create curtain-like sheaths. Rimstone dams are formed as water flows and cascades over an edge, resembling the overflow of water from a sink. Caves can serve as natural air conditioners, providing a refreshing escape from the sweltering heat of Wangdieng. During the civil war, local villagers found a safe refuge in a cave with a great view of Wangdieng. They moved the entire village there until the war ended. In later years, during the colonial era, the villagers returned to farming and bathing in the cold cave water. They named the cave Tanchang, meaning unable to move, because of the freezing and stiffening sensation it caused in their legs. Look down here, it's a long deep hole that appears to disappear into darkness. However, we won't take the risk of falling because we have this protective wall right here. Inside the cave, there are lights that highlight its beauty so you don't need to bring a torch. As we venture deeper into the cave, the number of lights decreases and darkness becomes more intense. Within the cave, you can find small halls where people have dropped money as part of certain beliefs. It appears we cannot go beyond that limit. This is an excellent vantage point, offering a clear view of the surrounding landscapes. On the other side, a small temple has been established by people for prayers. The atmosphere in this area radiates a sense of complete peacefulness and tranquility. Some cave rocks are sparkling light glitter. This can occur due to the presence of certain minerals with reflective properties. Do you have any idea how caves are formed? Caves are created when limestone is dissolved over time. Rainwater absorbs carbon dioxide from the air and as it seeps through the soil, it becomes a mild acid. This acid gradually dissolves the limestone along its cracks, layers and fractures, eventually enlarging them to form caves. Draperies are thin wavy formations that look like curtains and are created when water flows down steep slopes into caves. These cave popcorns are small round formations made of a mineral called calcite. These formations occur in caves when water seeps into land. It took us approximately one hour to walk through the entire cave complex. Now, we are heading towards our next adventure to explore the hidden blue lagoons. Meanwhile, let us know what aspect of this cave exploration fascinates you the most in the comment section below. There are numerous blue lagoons in Vang Vieng. One of them is located here. Limestone particles containing high levels of calcium carbonate collected along the way reflect light, making the water appear to us as a stunning turquoise blue color. If you enjoy this blue lagoon, there are many more thrilling blue lagoons even bigger than this one waiting for you. Stay connected with us to explore them as well. We hope you enjoyed this video. To discover more, don't forget to click the subscribe button and bell icon if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!