Famous tourist destination in Phang Na closed after fractures were discovered next to a picturesque lake

Famous tourist destination in Phang Na closed after fractures were discovered next to a picturesque lake

A lakeside tourist destination in Phang Nga province called Thong Lang Cave has been temporarily closed due to the discovery of fissures on the lake's banks that could endanger visitors. 

A notice outlining the rationale behind the closure has been erected by the owner of the property near the lake. The notice further stated that the area has been closed since March 15 until relevant agencies conduct a comprehensive inspection to guarantee visitor safety, as ordered by provincial officials.

“This area will be off limits to outsiders until announced otherwise. Thank you for your cooperation,” said the owner on the signboard.

Located in the Thap Put district of the southern province on Thailand’s west coast, Thong Lang Cave used to be a rock mining site adjacent to the lake that is reportedly up to 80 metres deep.

With a steep, rocky bank scattered with pine trees looking over the deep blue lake, the area has scenery similar to Swiss alpine forests.

This has earned Thong Lang Cave the name ‘Thailand’s Switzerland’, where hundreds of visitors from all over the country come to take photos and relax on the bank. Swimming in the lake is, however, prohibited.

While visiting the site on Wednesday, a reporter from The Nation found there were still tourists flocking to the entrance of the lake to take photos. Shops selling food and souvenirs were also still open.

Visitors lamented the closure of the attraction. They also urged the province to improve the area to be a full-scale tourist attraction, complete with facilities and safety measures to attract even more visitors to Phang Nga.