Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

Tourist arrivals at Tham Nam Lod cave in Pang Mapha district, Mae Hong Son province, have surged during the current high season, with large numbers of Israeli visitors travelling from Pai. The influx has generated strong local spending, helping revive the district’s tourism-dependent economy. Local guides report clear and immediate economic benefits for nearby communities.

Officials and guides at Tham Nam Lod in Ban Tham Lod confirmed that foreign tourists, most of them Israeli nationals, are visiting the site in large numbers. The cave is a well-known natural attraction in Pang Mapha district and has long been a stop for travellers exploring northern Mae Hong Son. During this period, visitors are arriving daily from Pai, one of the province’s main tourism hubs.

According to guides stationed at the cave, tourist numbers now average around 500 people per day. This level of activity has resulted in significant cash circulation within the local economy, benefiting guides, raft operators and nearby businesses. The rise in visitors coincides with the peak tourism season in the province.

Authorities have also implemented revised entrance fees to align with development plans and long-term conservation of the site. The new pricing structure came into effect on 1 January 2026. The fees are set at 270 baht for Thai visitors and 350 baht for foreign visitors for one cave, 320 baht for Thai visitors and 400 baht for foreign visitors for two caves, and 620 baht for Thai visitors and 700 baht for foreign visitors for three caves including bamboo rafting.

Tham Nam Lod is a large cave system featuring three main caves. Tham Sao Hin contains large stalactites and stalagmites, some extending to the 15-metre-high ceiling. Tham Tukkata is known for rock formations resembling dolls and includes ancient wall paintings depicting animals.

The third cave, Tham Phi Man, contains scattered wooden remains believed to be ancient coffins, regarded as valuable archaeological artefacts. The cave complex is also home to large numbers of swallows and bats. Each evening, bats fly out to feed as swallows return to their nests inside the caves.

Tham Nam Lod was established in 1992 and lies within the Pai River Wildlife Sanctuary in Pang Mapha district. The area covers about 400 rai, with an average elevation of 610 metres above sea level and a highest point of around 755 metres. The Lang River flows through the cave year-round for approximately 800 metres, originating near the Thai–Myanmar border.

SiamRath reported that local stakeholders expect tourist numbers to remain high throughout the season. Continued management and conservation measures will be used to support sustainable tourism at the site.

Key Takeaways

• Israeli tourists are visiting Tham Nam Lod in large numbers, averaging 500 people per day.

• Revised entrance fees have been in effect since 1 January 2026 to support sustainable management.

• Increased tourism has led to visible economic recovery in Pang Mapha district.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siamrath 2026-02-09

 

 

Was up there a few weeks ago (second time for me). Did the caves and raft which is worthwhile. Didn't notice many Israelis, there were quite a few Europeans. The entry fees of 700 Baht for all 3 chambers are not per person (i think that is up to 3 or 4 people IIRC) and includes the tour guide and raft trip.

I've been there twice and it's absolutely stunning. Highly recommended while doing the Mae Hong Son loop.

4 minutes ago, KireB said:

I've been there twice and it's absolutely stunning. Highly recommended while doing the Mae Hong Son loop.

Yes great cave system. I went 20 years ago.

14 hours ago, soi3eddie said:

Was up there a few weeks ago (second time for me). Did the caves and raft which is worthwhile. Didn't notice many Israelis, there were quite a few Europeans. The entry fees of 700 Baht for all 3 chambers are not per person (i think that is up to 3 or 4 people IIRC) and includes the tour guide and raft trip.

How would you know if the tourists were or were not Israelis?