Chiang Dao Cave Temple, 2009 by Gavin Farrell

The mountain is the third highest in the country, and the cave complex is said to extend more than 12 kilometres into the mountain; there are five main areas, of which only two are illuminated. Near the entrance is a large white chedi surmounted by numerous little towers, and a spring-fed pond, home to the temple fish. The sacred caves are filled with Buddha images and other ancient statuary belonging to Wat Tham Chiang Dao. Probably the most beautiful images are the formations of crystals from thousands of years of water dripping through the rocks. There is a Thai legend that says the Tham Chiang Dao served as the home of a 'reu-sii' (hermit sage) for a thousand years.