Buddha Cave Update

by Jan Burrows - Sustainable Tourism Advisor for SNV based in Tha Kaek

In July of 2004, it was announced that a new cave was discovered in Khammouane province in Laos. Not unusual news in itself, but this cave was different - it was full of antique Buddha statues. A long forgotten shrine.

The Cave

In early October 2005 a multi-stakeholder group traveled to the Buddha cave to discuss (and demonstrate) the positioning of a new lighting system for the cave. Those attending were Members of the Cave subcommittee, culture and information department, village elders, tourism office, DED consultant and SNV advisors. The groups were able to decide and agreed upon the type of lights and appropriate positioning of the lights within the cave.

Later in October, students from the Vocational Technical School in Tha Kaek installed the lights with assistance from the DED consultant with financial support from SNV.

The Interior of the Cave

As a result, the cave is now open and safe for tourism. Please come visit the most beautiful Buddhist cave in Laos!