Nam Lod Cave
The bats are the deciding factor here. Thousands of them, and everything under them is covered in guano with a smell to match. Plenty of people still walk out calling it the highlight of their trip north, but if strong odours ruin things for you, know that going in.
What you get is a limestone system with a river flowing through it, explored on foot and by bamboo raft. A local guide walks you in carrying a gas lantern, which is the only light you'll have in the chambers. There are three caves. Take all three if you can, since the last one is reached by boat and is the one people rave about. Big fish come up alongside the raft and you can feed them. There's a climb up rickety stairs to the ancient teakwood coffins. The full round takes roughly an hour.
Pricing is per group, not per head. Around 700 baht covers up to three people, so a group of four pays for two groups. Restaurants sit near the entrance for lunch afterwards.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Nam Lod Cave, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Nam Lod Cave is one of the most impressive natural cave systems in northern Thailand. A river flows directly through the limestone cave, creating a unique experience that combines nature, exploration, and a short bamboo rafting ride. Highlights • Stunning limestone formations and dramatic cave chambers • Bamboo rafting through the cave adds a real sense of adventure • Beautiful light and shadow effects inside the cave — great for photography • A mix of river, rock formations, and open chambers • Feels more like an exploration than a simple cave visit Overall Nam Lod Cave offers a memorable blend of natural beauty and light adventure. Floating through the cave and seeing the massive rock formations up close makes it a unique stop around Pai or Mae Hong Son. It’s a great experience for anyone who enjoys nature, geology, and a bit of exploration.
The drive from Pai was winding and beautiful, but the cave itself was the real star. I followed my local guide as she led me through the pitch-black chambers with only a flickering gas lantern for light. Floating through the mountain on a bamboo raft was a surreal experience—I could hear thousands of bats squeaking above me and see massive fish swimming right next to the boat. It was humid and a bit of a climb up the rickety stairs to see the ancient teakwood coffins, but I’m so glad I made the trip. The only disappointment was the foreigners price because it was dual pricing but I understand the work the rangers and guide have to do may thanks
Nice trip. Walk along the beautiful trees, nature. Not too much smell, group 6 with 2 guides go to cave 1 and cave 2 about more than 1 hour. Have dinner at Nongluk restaurant nearby with reasonable price.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 2,486 reviews on Google.
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Nam Lod Cave: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nam Lod Cave worth visiting?
Nam Lod Cave holds a 4.5★ rating from 2,486 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Pai.
What are the opening hours of Nam Lod Cave?
Nam Lod Cave is typically open 08:00-17:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Nam Lod Cave?
The best months to visit Pai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (hot & hazy).
Where is Nam Lod Cave located?
Nam Lod Cave is at 107 หมู่1 Tambon Tham Lot, Amphoe Pang Mapha, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58150, Thailand, in Pai. Getting around Pai: Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day); Bicycle rental for town.
Location Info
107 หมู่1 Tambon Tham Lot, Amphoe Pang Mapha, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58150, Thailand+66 53 617 218Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves, take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre
Where to stay near Nam Lod Cave
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Nam Lod Cave
Find hotels in Pai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves, take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre