Pak Ou Caves
Pak Ou Cave, a name that translates to “mouth of the river,” is one of Laos’ most respected holy sites that has been a place of worship for thousands of years.
Seeing the cave for the first time can make anyone wonder how nature can create such a stunning place — Pak Ou Caves, which also serves as a shrine for Buddha and the river spirit, is set in a magnificent limestone cliff where the Mekong and Nam Ou River meet. The cave is divided into the two — the upper cave where tourists can find the majority of the 4,000 Buddha icons, and the lower cave, which is a more peaceful place where visitors can meditate and enjoy the stunning backdrop provided by the Mekong River. You can burn incense and offer prayers while you’re in the cave — it’s a perfect way to experience traditional Lao beliefs.
Location
Pak Ou Caves is located at Luang Prabang, Ban Pak Ou, Laos.
Opening Days and Hours
Tourists can visit Pak Ou from 8:00 to 17:00.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Admission fee costs LAK 20,000 (USD 2.4).
How to Get There
- Fly from Vientiane to Luang Prabang via Lao Airlines or Lao Skyway.
- From Luang Prabang, rent a tuk-tuk to Luang Prabang port.
- From the port, board Nava Mekong for $25 (includes lunch).
Suggested For
- Backpackers/solo travelers
- Couples
- Group of friends
- Families
Time to Spend
Travel included, you need to allow 7 hours for your trip to Pak Ou Caves.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Tourists and locals flock the caves during the Lao New Year which is every April. If you want to avoid the crowd, visit between May and September.
Food
Tourists can have their meals in the two restaurants in Pak Ou village. Bringing your own food and water is also encouraged.
Nearby Attractions
- Mekong River
- Ban Xang Hai Village
Stay
Tourists can find the nearest accommodation at Luang Prabang. Hotels such as Lotus Villa Boutique Hotel, Villa Ban Lakkham, The Apsara, Villa Santi Hotel, and The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel offer accommodations starting from USD 50 to USD 250.