A hidden gem for travelers in the Nong Khai province is Tham Phiang Din Cave (Naga Cave) – which is a large underground sandstone chamber of many chambers. It’s another little treasure of the Nong Khai province that’s off the tourist beaten path.
Address: วัดถ้ำศรีมงคล(ถ้ำดินเพียง) Tambon Pha Tang, Amphoe Sangkhom, Chang Wat Nong Khai 43160
Location: Approx 86 km from Nong Khai town. Take the route 242 onto 211 then on to the 4028. It’s signposted very well after the 211.
This attraction is not within Nong Khai town and many travelers passing through (i.e., Thai visa run) won’t have the opportunity to visit places like this in the province…….
It’s a pity as Tham Phiang Din, Wat Pa Phu Kon, Wat Pha Tak Suea, Wat Hin Mak Peng and other places beat most of the attractions hands down that are near the town.
Before The Cave Entrance Area
Here’s a few photos showing you the surroundings on route to the cave entrance.
Tham Phiang Din Cave – Things To Know
Wat Tham Phiang Din is a temple (Wat) that was built in 1938 and named after the caves (Tham). The temple is also known as Wat Tham Si Mongkhon.
The caves are also known as the Naga caves which is the mythical serpent (Naga) well known in the Nong Khai province and town. You’ve maybe seen the Naga heads on the Mekong riverside in the town or heard of the Naga fireballs which all relates to mythical and spiritual meanings to certain Thai people within the province.
Safety First
Some parts of the cave are very low and one section you have to climb through on your back. Please do be aware that if you’re a big person or have physical disabilities or problems it may not be easy or suitable. Also, if you fear closed in places this may not suit you.
One guy walked back after two minutes who was with us and Duan (my driver/friend) nearly walked back, but fortunately he continued.
Guides
A guide will take you through the caves. They will only speak in Thai language and you will likely have to wait for others to create enough people for a tour or you might join a tour.
Our group was very small and easy, but I did see another group going after us, and I am so glad we went before them as there was a lot of them and it could of taken some time to get through the journey.
The cost to go inside was 100 THB – if I remember correctly. You can also tip the guide after if you wish, but tipping is up to you and not mandatory.
Inside The Caves
To get started on the journey through the caves you must lower into the entrance which is pretty small. You’ll walk through a few winding areas and the ceiling can be as low as 1.5 meters.
There is some water to walk through that’s not above knee height. There’s only water on parts of the journey through.
There is also an area where it’s a bit of a squeeze to get through. Most people should be fine though. And, one section you have to pull yourself under, on your back.
The distance to walk within the cave is about 200 meters and takes about 30 minutes with the guide speaking about certain areas. It will take longer if you have a larger group of people than we did.
Donation Boxes
There is a hell of a lot of donation boxes around the cave and inside. I noticed and did not say anything, but my friend (Thai) pointed it out. Just ignore them…..a fee is paid when entering anyway.
Tham Phiang Din Cave – Worth Visiting?
Absolutely…..
If you have the opportunity to get outside of Nong Khai town an into the province the Naga caves are a great place to visit.
A trip to Tham Phiang Din is best combined with visiting other attractions in the province. Wat Pha Tak Suea – skywalk, and Wat Hin Mak Peng are on the way to here. I visited Phu Phra Bat on this trip after Phiang Din, which is another hours drive.
I have taken most of my Nong Khai province trips with the owner of The Rim Riverside Guesthouse and paid him for the day. Another option is renting a car for a day or so.
You just cant beat this off the tourist beaten path stuff.
