Tham Poukham, the Blue Lagoon

Tham Poukham

Don Det, Laos May 2013

Para leer in Español

The towns name is Vang Vieng. Just a couple of years ago it was known as the party city of the country. Where hundreds of tourists gathered to party in the bars close to the river. It was also known for the famous activity called tubing. Which is basically an old tire tube that you use as a floating device to float down the river while drinking and well getting drunk. This activity lead to the death of at least one tourist per month, as well as many injured tourists on alcohol related accidents.

Last year the government prohibited the consumption of alcohol and the tubing madness stopped along with the massive tourism. Unfortunately last April three bars along the river for tubers re-openned. We can only pray that there will be no more tragedies in this town. But even if you don´t want to risk your life floating on the river there is another great reason to visit this small touristic town in Laos. It is called Tham Poukham and it means Blue Lagoon. Just seven kilometers across the river from the town a chunk of paradise awaits for everyone to enjoy.

Tham Poukham, the Blue Lagoon

The natural spring lagoon is crystal clear and equipped with natural features. The lagoon is deep enough to halt your jump from the seven meter high trampoline on the great big tree. If you are not into that kind of action then you can jump from the two meter or from the rope that leaves you almost on top of the water. The lagoon also provides a couple of hanging chairs where you can sit and enjoy the majestic view. Then, if you want to do more exploration, climb some 100 meters and you will find the entry of a cave where the golden Buddha statue rests. This impressive golden sculpture will make you wonder about the connection between Buddhism and the preservation of natural wonders.

I have discovered that the building of Buddha sculptures by the monks has to do with preserving a natural wonder found in the area, some examples are Leshan, Mt. Emei and here. Basically the natural wonder becomes either a temple or a holy place, ergo declares a protected area from the government. Clever idea, isn´t it? So after spending a whole afternoon in it´s waters and jumping from it´s trampolines I have to confess that without a doubt Tham Poukham has been one of my favorite places in this paradise of a country. By the way we did not go tubing and the truth is I did not miss it at all. I mean I am sure tubing is fun, but here was an unforgettable experience. I hope I can comeback.

10 USD for a night

Vang Vieng

Healthy Breakfast

The Beautiful Road

A boat ride in the river

To the other side of the river

We are almost there.

Good morning biker!

We have arrived!

As beautiful, as promised.

Developing hunting skills.

Cannot wait to get in there.

The swimming is for everyone!

The Buddha lies here in the cave. A good way to preserve it´s sacredness.

Majestic

The monks pose for us.

The light in the cave.

The day is over returning to our home.

The nice people who live by the Lagoon.