Caves of Northern Thailand

About this book

More caves have been reported in the eight northern provinces of Thailand – Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan and Phrae – than in any other region. The most extensively surveyed area is Pang Ma Pha district in Mae Hong Son province where 176 caves have been recorded. As a result of expeditions by the French many new endemic troglobitic species have been discovered. Accounts by early European travellers such as Carl Bock have also provided useful information.

Nevertheless many caves remain to be unexplored. Thus the 100 caves selected for Caves of Northern Thailand are only a small percentage of the 2 000 or so caves in Northern Thailand. They include many of the most spectacular wild caves, the famous temple caves and archaeological sites. Caves of Northern Thailand covers all aspects of caves including their geology, environment, archaeology, temples and folklore as well as giving tips on their safe exploration and photography.

Customer Reviews

Biography

Simon Gardner and Pindar Sidisunthorn are co-authors, photographers and illustrators of the renowned Field Guide to Forest Trees of Northern Thailand.

Dean Smart is a cave specialist who pioneered much of the cave research in Thailand, in conjunction with the Royal Forestry Department.