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Konglor cave and the mission to the 4000islands
I would be lying if I said vang vieng didn't leave me feeling a little worse for wear but no fear as I was on the move again. Next stop on the Laos itinerary was the konglor cave in Central Laos. A lot of travellers tend to miss this section of the country out but i strongly recommend you don't! It's amazing!!! Rural, stunning scenery and of course crazy caves!
That said it is a little bit tricker to get to. From vang vieng you can either go direct or via Vientiane and spend a night there. The capital is a little disappointing and quiet but it's ok for one night. Then there is a direct bus to konglor village that leaves 10am daily. A lot of people will go to tha kaek first but only go there if you wanna do the motorbike loop (meant to be amazing!).
The drive down to the village is beautiful. Mountains galore! And once there try and stay at a home stay. It's a great way to get to know the culture and community. The whole village is so welcoming and I had a great time there. The cave itself is a little walk then you pay entry and for your boat. Boats take 2/3 people and it's around €3 each. Then comes the fun bit...
The long tail boats take you deep into this humungous cave, winding around the intricate network of stalagmites and occasional bat. Around half way you stop and get to explore a bit yourself. They have added some subtle lighting to add to the effect. As the lonely planet quotes "it's like walking on to the set of Star Trek!" And rightly said! It was breath taking! The whole journey takes around 2 hours and is quite a thrill. There are a few rapids and the driver even got the boat to go up the rapids... Hold on tight!
So now for the mission journey down to the 4000 Islands. First step is to get to tha kaek which normally takes two tuk tuk rides. From tha kaek there is a night bus that goes directly to the 4 thousand Islands and leaves at 5:30pm daily. Word of warning: the bus is local, no air con and takes 15 hours... Fun times! Our journey was made even more amusing by a group of drunken Canadians who thought a running commentary of how hot, tired and I'll they were would make us all feel better...
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