Driving a challenging road through Hang Ban Tham Cave
Hang Bản Thẳm Cave is a natural cave located in Sơn La Province, Vietnam. It’s one of the few roads in the world that runs through a cave.
Where is Hang Ban Tham Cave?
Hang Bản Thẳm Cave, also known as Luong Cave, is located in the Son La mountain range in the Thuận Châu District, in the western part of the country.
Why is Hang Bản Thẳm Cave famous?
It was originally a natural cave but became an important site during the Vietnam War. In 1964, the Vietnamese army modified the cave by creating a 500-meter-long path through it. This path was used for military purposes, and by 1966, the cave became a key route for the local population.
How big is the Hang Bản Thẳm Cave?
The cave is located near Highway 6, in Tham village. The entrance is wide enough for light trucks (1.5 to 2 tons) to pass through. Inside, the cave has both wide and narrow sections. Some parts are large enough for small Thai stilt houses to fit. Today, this cave serves as a regular road for local residents, although traveling through it is difficult due to its rough terrain.
How challenging is driving through Hang Bản Thẳm Cave?
Inside the cave, there is no natural light, so people must use flashlights or lamps to see. The road surface is uneven, covered with dirt and rocks, making it hard to travel. The cave’s conditions worsen during the rainy season, as the road becomes muddy and slippery. This makes it difficult for students to attend school, and some families need to take time off work to help children get there. Emergency situations are also challenging, as people often rely on motorbikes to travel through the difficult path.
How popular is Hang Bản Thẳm Cave?
The road also affects local agriculture and trade. Traders avoid coming to the area due to the road’s poor condition, forcing villagers to go to the market themselves. The cave, while hard to navigate, is still a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts, especially in the summer. However, it sees only around 20-30 visitors per week, mostly motorbike travelers.
Road suggested by: Jorge Manuel Gómez Sánchez
Pic&more info: https://crystalbay.com/58-thu-thach-kham-pha-hang-ban-tham-khong-phai-ai-cung-dam-di-qua-tai-thuan-chau-son-la-n54857.html