Cave-riddled Karst Scenery
Northern Laos, Laos
Once going to be the great new capital of the newly Communist Laos state Vieng Xai fell into decay and today is little more than the gateway to the amazing Pathet Lao caves. Similar in function to the Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam the caves were equipped with all manner of facilities to provide the Pathet Lao with the base from which to manage the war in the north. A visit for anyone near Vieng Xai or staying in Xam Nua is a must.
Background
The landscape of northern Laos is characterised by karst limestone rock formations – what proved to be a perfect hideout for the Pathet Lao in what has now been recognised as the most heavily bombed region in history.
The caves were in use from the 1950’s when then Pathet Lao forces were fighting the French. In ideologically joining their communist comrades from Vietnam the caves were expanded and soon were home to thousands spread over dozens of caves.
Cut into the rock face and along the valley floor the caves were an incredibly dangerous place to be as the Americans relentlessly bombed the area; inside were workshops, offices, print works, weaving centres, kitchens and hospital facilities. The caves were later used as ‘re-education centres’.