
Cave
Tham Lod Cave
A river cave with three chambers, bamboo rafts and swifts that stream out at dusk.
WhereMae Hong Son
Time needed1.5 hours
Best timeLate afternoon
CostTHB 450 (raft + guide)
The raft trip through the cave, poled by a local guide with a gas lamp, is one of the most atmospheric experiences in the north. At sunset, hundreds of thousands of swifts return to roost.
How to visit it well
- Arrive around 5pm for the swift spectacle.
- The raft is per boat, not per person — good value for groups.
- The cave floor is slippery; bring a torch.