I want to warn you right away: Even though I consider this cave one of the absolute highlights in Trang, as it's probably the most famous spot besides the islands, it's definitely not for people with claustrophobia. Lae Khao Kob Cave is a hidden gem of Thailand, nestled in a massive limestone mountain with a stream flowing through it. You reach it by rowboat – but not alone. You need to hire experienced boatmen who know the cave intimately, as much of the journey is done lying down due to the very low ceiling. A visit to Tham Le Khao Kob Cave is divided into four stages: First, you travel by boat to the entrance, then you enter the cave to a point where you disembark to explore it on foot with one of the two boatmen, and finally, you return by boat to the exit. The last section is the most impressive: Even lying down, you can feel the upper rock wall at close range. Locals call this nearly 500-meter-long section "Dragon's Back," referring to the shape of the rock. Passing through this opening is said to bring good luck. However, as mentioned, it's not recommended for people with claustrophobia, as there's no way to turn around. The Tham Le Khao Kob cave contains numerous stalagmites and stalactites. On the tour, the Elephant's Feet and the Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks (similar to those at Lamai Beach on Koh Samui, but formed from stalagmites) are particularly striking. There's also a small shrine and several other sacred sites. It's a beautiful, adventurous tour, but you should know what to expect and carefully consider whether or not you want to undertake it.

Entry is free, but without a boat tour (300 THB per boat, space for up to 5 people) you'll miss the main sights. Khao Khob Cave is open year-round, even during the rainy season. However, it may occasionally close after heavy storms that flood the cave. Therefore, after heavy rains in the preceding days, call ahead (Tel.: 075 500117) to inquire about opening times.

The Tham Le Khao Kob cave is located in the Huai Yot district, 35 kilometers from the town of Trang. It is not accessible by public transport. I recommend combining a visit to Khao Kob cave with a visit to Wat Khao Phra Yod (7 kilometers away). Less than a kilometer from the cave is also an interesting private park with dragon sculptures made of branches.

How to get there

How do I get to Tham Lae Khao Kob Cave? Tham Lae Khao Kob Cave is located in the Huai Yot district, 35 kilometers from Trang town. There is no public transportation to the cave. I recommend combining a visit to Khao Kob Cave with a visit to Wat Khao Phra Yod, which is 7 kilometers away. Less than 1 kilometer from the cave, there is also an interesting private park with dragon sculptures made of branches.