Erawan Cave

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Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Please check before traveling

 

Erawan Cave in Lopburi Province is a natural attraction distinguished in many dimensions, including geology, archaeology, religion, and ecology. It is located in Chong Sarika Subdistrict, Phatthana Nikhom District, an area of major limestone mountains and one of Lopburi’s most significant natural zones. Erawan Mountain is a center of diverse natural resources and remains notably rich in ecological abundance.

 

Erawan Mountain is a limestone mountain formed from the accumulation of marine organism remains hundreds of millions of years ago. Over time, movements of the earth’s crust uplifted the seabed and created the mountain seen today. The limestone structure led to the formation of cavities, caves, and underground waterways in large numbers. Surveys have found that Erawan Mountain contains more than 15 caves, reflecting the complexity of the natural system in this area and making it an important site for geological study.

 

One of the most remarkable features of Erawan Cave is the discovery of a cave with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that are still actively growing. This cave is considered a “young cave” or a cave with fresh mineral formations, meaning that the stalactites and stalagmites continue to develop from the steady accumulation of minerals carried by dripping water through the rock layers. As a result, the shapes of these formations continue to change over time, representing a living natural process rather than a fixed and unchanging structure.

 

Inside the cave is a large chamber that visitors can walk into and explore. The air inside remains cool throughout the year because the cave structure retains temperature very well. This coolness helps visitors feel relaxed, almost as if they were inside a naturally air-conditioned room. Deeper inside, there are connecting tunnels, and the third tunnel is especially important because a large number of sacred relics were found there.

 

The relics found inside Erawan Cave hold religious significance. Phra Ajahn Sombat Phuripanyo, together with his disciples, conducted a ceremony to enshrine the relics in 5 marble stupas so that they could become a place of worship and a spiritual center for visitors. The inside of the cave is therefore both a natural attraction and a spiritual site at the same time.

 

In archaeological terms, the Erawan Mountain area is highly significant. Fragments of pottery approximately 2,500 to 3,000 years old have been discovered here, indicating that ancient humans once used this area as a dwelling place or for certain activities. In addition, fossils such as shell remains about 292 million years old have also been found, reflecting the ancient past when this area was once under the sea and providing important scientific evidence.

 

Erawan Mountain is also a center of biodiversity, with surveys recording several rare plant species such as yellow mok rachini, freshwater mangrove, and cotton tree, along with a variety of wild animals. Of particular importance is the dancing wren-babbler, an endemic species found in only a few places in the world. Khao Phra Bat Noi in Saraburi Province is its main habitat, and Erawan Mountain is the second location where it has been found, making this area highly significant in ecological terms.

 

The overall atmosphere of Erawan Cave gives a sense of adventure and discovery. Visitors can experience the beauty of stalactites and stalagmites, the cool air inside the cave, and the quiet surroundings that naturally help calm the mind. Exploring the cave is therefore both a travel experience and a learning experience at the same time.

 

Today, Erawan Cave is considered one of Lopburi’s promising natural attractions, especially for travelers interested in nature, cave exploration, and geology. Although it has not yet become a large-scale commercial tourism site, the integrity and natural character of the area are exactly what make it stand out from other destinations.

 

Getting There Erawan Cave can be reached via routes in Phatthana Nikhom District, heading toward Chong Sarika Subdistrict, which is near Pasak Jolasid Dam. Private transportation is recommended because the final section passes through mountainous terrain and may be difficult to access. Traveling during daylight hours is advisable for the greatest safety and convenience.

 

Visitors planning a trip should prepare suitable equipment such as shoes appropriate for rough terrain, a flashlight for exploring inside the cave, and drinking water. Caution is also necessary because some parts of the cave may be slippery or dark, and visitors should avoid touching or damaging the stalactites and stalagmites that are still growing.

 

 

A: It is located in Chong Sarika Subdistrict, Phatthana Nikhom District, Lopburi Province.

 

A: It has actively growing stalactites and stalagmites, and there are more than 15 caves on Erawan Mountain.

 

A: It is cool and comfortable throughout the year, almost like a naturally air-conditioned room.

 

A: Yes. Pottery dating back 2,500–3,000 years and fossils about 292 million years old have been found in the area.

 

A: It is suitable for nature travelers, cave explorers, and people interested in geology.