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Vieng Xai Caves

Laos, Luang Prabang and The North

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The caves around the village of Vieng Xai were home to the Pathet Lao leadership and thousands of civilians for almost a decade during the 'Secret War' that the United States of America waged on Laos between 1964 to 1973. Hidden amongst a spectacular range of limestone cliffs is a complex network of caves, some which which have recently been opened to the public. The caves were like underground cities, with hospitals, schools and even theatres.

A guided tour lasts about 2 hours and gives a great insight into the way the Pathet Laos was organised and the hardships they went through before eventually prevailing. The tour takes in a number of caves, from civilian hideouts to the most important locations where the politburo met and planned their tactics.

A number of important relics remain and the caves have been well maintained, with plans to gradually open more of them to visitors. It's currently possible to visit the caves and small rooms where the likes of Prince Souvannaphoum and Kaysone (the founding father of modern Laos) lived during these years. Most senior leaders also built themselves houses in front of the caves after the bombing had ceased and it is possible to walk around these.

The tour is an interesting insight into the war years and helps to understand how Loas developed subsequently, as most key players in the recent history resided there during the war.

The surrounding area is one of extreme beauty and driving along the quiet mountain roads is highly enjoyable. It is possible to visit the caves en-route to the land border with Vietnam.

You can include this experience as part of an Experience Travel Group holiday designed exclusively with you.

Hanoi to Luang Prabang Overland

Hanoi to Luang Prabang Overland

A breathtaking overland trip through some of the most beautiful and fascinating parts of Vietnam and Laos.

The Backroads of Laos

The Backroads of Laos

An unusual adventure winding northeast taking in cave networks, Vietnam War sites, wildlife and The Plain of Jars.

Map centered on Vieng Xai Caves. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.

Travel Guide to Laos

CURIOUS TRAVELLER'S GUIDE TO LAOS

If you would like some advice on the best dates to travel then please check out our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Laos. You will also receive some great tips on our favourite hotels, experiences and beach alternatives.

Download Now

ETG - immersive holidays that give back, since 2004.
Don’t just see Asia - feel Asia.

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Experience Travel Group

020 7924 7133 Get in touch

Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Borneo
    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • Holidays in Laos
    • Classic Holidays
    • Family Holidays
    • In Depth Holidays
    • Multi Country Holidays
  • Guide to Laos
    • Laos Guide
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Laos Travel Blog
  • Places in Laos
    • Overview
    • Luang Prabang
    • Pakse & Southern Laos
    • Northern Laos
    • Plain of Jars
    • Vientiane
  • About us
    • Why choose ETG?
    • Our Story
    • Meet the Team
    • Reviews
    • In the Press
    • Our Offices
    • Our Brochure
    • Travel Blog
    • Newsletter Signup
  • How it works
    • Get in touch
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost?
    • Financial protection
    • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
    • Working with in-country partners
    • My Booking
    • Come and see us
  • Immersive Holidays
    • Immersive Family Holidays
    • Immersive Honeymoons
    • Ideas & Inspiration
    • Holidays by month
    • Family Holidays by Month
    • Download Free Country Guides
  • Sustainability
    • Travel Better
    • Our Counter-Carbon Pledge
    • One bottle at a time
    • Building a Sustainable Future
    • Giving Back
  • Come and see us
  • My Booking
  • Brochure
  • Travel Blog