Sinkhole at the RockViewpoint
The Rock Viewpoint opened to visitors in 2020, turning a former viewpoint on the Thakhek Loop into an adventure park with an extensive zipline network through the limestone karst. The improved access also opened the surrounding forest, including a large sinkhole that had remained largely unexplored.
Tom and Fai were the first to investigate the climbing potential of the area. With the dedication of Remy Wittwer, many more routes were established, making the Rock Viewpoint a new climbing destination. Today, climbers can choose between short, technical limestone routes on the surface or the unique climbing found inside the sinkhole.
The sinkhole was first explored by the Green Discovery Laos (GDL) team. It is known as Tham Pong (Pong cave). It is 100m deep to the first level. It's boom is about 20m in diameter where you can walk around. From here, there is another smaller sink hole that goes down another 100m. At both levels, there’re wondrous wildlife and intriguing formations to be seen. To explore both levels, one must book a guide onsite with Green Discovery Laos office at The Rock Viewpoint. The climbing starts at the first level, 100m down. It’s required to bring a 100m as a fixed rope for safety purposes while you descend and ascend the sinkhole. It is also much easier to make one rappel all the way down to the floor. A 100m static rope and jumar can be rented from the Green Discovery Laos office. It’s required to go check in there and let them know you’re climbing the sinkhole. Best to bring a headlamp, to not strain your eyes. The sun hits the sinkhole from 10:00 – 14:00. It can get slightly too dark at 16:00. The best months for climbing varies from Nov/Dec ‐ Apr.
