Khun Kong Leng Lake

Sure, pinch yourself, but this blue lagoon isn’t a mirage—the cold spring waters of this deep swimming hole really are the colour of gemstones, so clear you can see right to the bottom.

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Khun Kong Leng is a refreshing oasis 50 kilometres northeast of Tha Khaek, making for a good day trip with time for several dips and a picnic lunch. The colour of the water changes every few months—sometimes it’s emerald green, other months cyan, orange or pink. Villagers believe that on every night of the full moon, a gong can be heard across the water.

Just wow! Photo taken in or around Khun Kong Leng Lake, Tha Khaek, Laos by Cindy Fan.

Just wow! Photo: Cindy Fan

It isn’t on the beaten track for western tourists (contrast that with the blue lagoon in Vang Vieng, overrun with people and ugly construction). This is an undeveloped local spot, busier on weekends when friends gather for barbecues and beer.

The biggest obstacle to visiting is the 20 kilometres of dirt road once you turn off Route 13. It’s a doozy, especially during and in the months after rainy season. If you’re not an experienced rider, hiring a tuk tuk, minivan or arranging a tour with the tourism office are all good options. For something more active, the lagoon is a stop on their incredibly scenic 2-day/1-night trek.

To get here, head east out of town to the highway, then travel 30 km north on Route 13 to Houay Aek village, turning right/head east on the dirt road. After 2 km, turn right. Follow the road, it’s 17 km to Ban Na Kue village and from there another kilometre to ... please log in to read the rest of this story.