Doi Nang Non and Tham Luang, Chiang Rai – visitor guide
The "Sleeping Lady" mountain range and the cave made famous by the 2018 rescue. How to visit Tham Luang–Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park.
Doi Nang Non, the “Mountain of the Sleeping Lady”, is a limestone range in Mae Sai district, near Thailand’s northern border with Myanmar. Its outline is said to resemble a woman lying on her back. Beneath it lies the Tham Luang cave system, which became world-famous in 2018, when a youth football team and their coach were trapped inside by floodwater and rescued after more than two weeks.
What to see
- Tham Luang–Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park, with walking paths, a spring-fed pond at Khun Nam Nang Non, and viewpoints of the mountain.
- The cave entrance area, where displays and memorials tell the story of the rescue, including a statue of Saman Kunan, the former Thai Navy SEAL who died during the operation.
Access to the inner parts of the cave is restricted and depends on season and water levels. Follow the instructions of park staff.
When to go
The dry season (November to April) is the best time to visit. During the rainy season, the cave floods and the deeper areas are closed.
Where to stay
The park is close to Mae Sai and about an hour’s drive from Chiang Rai city. See our Chiang Rai guide for places to stay.