Thailand Day 11 - Tham Lod Cave, Mo Paeng Waterfall, Yun Lai Viewpoint

Today was our first full day of exploring the area around Pai. We stopped at a bike shop and rented a couple of scooters for the day. We then headed out for a trip along the winding highway some 30 km to Tham Lod Cave. The cave is very cool in that it can only be entered via boat as a river runs through this relatively famous cave. One of the more impressive facts about the cave are the archeological fines of human remains from as far back as 13000 years ago. This cave was much larger than the cave we had visited a week earlier near Kanchanaburi, and contained some impressive features including a floor to ceiling column, and many stalactites and stalagmites.

Upon finishing at the cave we returned to our bikes and found a spot for lunch not far from the cave. More delicious food was enjoyed and then we headed back down the road to see one of the areas waterfalls known as Mo Paeng. The water in this stream was quite cool so we did not go for a swim but still enjoyed the scenery.

Our next stop was for more scenery as we passed through the Chinese Village and found our way to the Yun Lai Viewpoint. Atop the view point we enjoyed a cup of tea and Tori got a few moments with a few stray kittens that were wondering around. Eventually we made our way back into town and dropped the bikes off.

As is becoming the norm we returned to the hotel, cleaned up and went out in search of dinner. Scott ventured out and tried a local speciality known as Hang-Lay Pork Curry. The pork was melt in your mouth delicious and the balance of oil, spices, and heat made for a wonderful meal.

The night ended early as none of the bars were open due to the day being a memorial for the late King. This news seemed to surprise both locals and tourists. All in all a very fun day and it would not hurt to be rested for the next.