Imagine traversing vast flat valleys bursting with emerald rice paddies and limestone peaks that jut up from the earth like jagged prehistoric fangs. At the base of these karst you’ll find blue lagoons, remote rural villages and caves galore, the highlight being Konglor Cave. Imagine zipping on a boat through pitch darkness for 7.5-kilometres, clear to the other side of the mountain.

The loop can be done in as little as three days, but more are recommended depending on how many sights you want to take in and how many kilometres per day you want to ride. The journey should really be savoured. Three days is a rush, four days is more leisurely, five plus includes relaxation and side-trips.

The loop starts and ends in Tha Khaek, taking you through Khammuan and Bolikhamsai Province, two national protected areas, an enormous reservoir, a karst “forest” and to within 30 km of the Vietnam border. Most do the journey anti-clockwise, passing through the towns/villages in this order: Mahaxay, Nakai, Thalang, Lak Xao, Na Hin, Konglor and Vieng Kham. See our Guide to the Tha Khaek Loop for further ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 600 words.)