The blue pool
A swim beneath a large tree.
The Blue Lagoon is a small pool of turquoise water at the foot of a limestone mountain near Vang Vieng, with Tham Phu Kham cave above it. It is the area's most popular outing, combining a swim, shade and a short climb to the cave. Similar numbered sites have now appeared, but this is the first and original one. Wikipedia links the cave's name with the blue water, and local people revere it. It holds Buddhist images, the largest in bronze, and lies near the village of Ban Na Thong. As the town has grown, the site has become a tourist operation, with cafes, games and branches that young people jump from into the water. You walk beneath a large tree with branches hanging over the pool, and you see swimmers and rubber rings in the cold blue-green water. A steep rocky stairway climbs to the cave, where you need a lamp, and a guide if you want to go deeper. The water is less clear after rain, so it looks best in the dry season. It is about 6 km in a straight line from central Vang Vieng, on a dirt road that crosses the river, reached by bicycle or tuk-tuk. Sources give hours of 8:00 to 18:00. Morning is best for avoiding crowds. Bring modest swimwear and dress suitably at the cave out of respect. Take care when jumping, as the water may be shallow.
A swim beneath a large tree.
A short climb to the cave.
Fields and limestone peaks.
Ban Na Thong, north-west of Vang Vieng, Laos
No. It is less clear after rain, so it looks best in the dry season.
Yes, inside the cave. You can hire one for about 10,000 kip according to sources.