Tham Reussi Grotto

The chalk mountains contain many grottoes, some with beautiful dripstones, which provide refuge for field mice. One of the most famous caves is Tham Reussi, the "Hermits' Cave", close to the town (at the custom house). It comprises a labyrinth of strangely-shaped caves with dripstones. One particular stalagmite, with an almost human shape, is said by local people to look like a miracle-working hermit. It enjoys particular reverence and is covered each day with offerings, mainly little gold tiles. A small park with ponds has been laid out around the entrance to the cave.

From here a path leads through a tunnel for about 500 m to Wat Tham Pong Chang ("temple cave in the elephant's stomach") shrine, vaulted by Khao Chang, the mountain of the elephants (so named after its shape). Three statues of holy elephants stand inside.