Cave system transformed into city
The natural environment is picturesque, the landscape is defined by jungle-covered karst mountains, which reflect in the waters of wet rice paddies. You won't notice it right away, but no building in Viengxay is older than a few decades. The fate of Viengxay during the Vietnam War was extremely difficult. For nine years, the region was bombarded so severely that the population – the Pathet Lao – was forced to retreat into caves.
THE HIDDEN CITY
Local guides take you to an extensive cave system, which has been transformed into a true city. An estimated 20,000 Pathet Lao survived here. During the tour you will see caves that served as living quarters, markets, a bakery, school and hospital, but also here were a radio station, ministries and military barracks. The Hidden City is an oppressive war memorial that commands deep admiration. Back in the daylight, your eyes need to get used to so much sun, your skin warms up quickly, you hear the sounds of the forest. The scars in the landscape are no longer visible, and the population is also looking ahead. Their new city is in full development.