The hamlet of Ban Tham Xang stands in the shadow of an isolated peak on the plain to the north of Vang Vieng. The complex around the pagoda, which stands at the foot of the peak, includes Tham Xang, the "elephant cave", home to a large seated Buddha. Other caves (tham) can also be visited in the surrounding area. At the end of the canal, Tham Nam, the "water cave", boasts a lake on which visitors can enjoy a tubing excursion. Other caves to the north include the legendary Tham Loup ("hole cave") and Tham Hoy ("shellfish cave").