Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars in Xiangkhouang Province is one of Southeast Asia's most enigmatic archaeological puzzles. Thousands of stone jars, ranging from one to three meters in height, are scattered across dozens of sites on a central plateau. Dated to the Iron Age (500 BCE to 500 CE), these megalithic structures are believed to have been used for ancient funerary practices, though many questions about their creators remain unanswered. Visitors typically explore the three most accessible locations: Site 1, 2, and 3. Site 1 is the largest, featuring hundreds of jars and a natural cave that may have served as a crematorium. The landscape is also a somber reminder of the 'Secret War,' with bomb craters still visible among the ancient artifacts. Travelers must strictly follow marked paths, as unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a significant concern in the region. The town of Phonsavan acts as the main hub, offering local dishes and information about the ongoing UXO clearing efforts. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to March when the hills are accessible and visibility is high. Reaching the Plain of Jars involves a flight to Phonsavan or a long, scenic road journey from Luang Prabang or Vientiane. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019, the Plain of Jars gives a powerful combination of ancient mystery and modern historical significance. Walking among these silent stone giants provides a unique perspective on the long and complex history of Laos. It is an essential destination for anyone fascinated by archaeology and the enduring mysteries of vanished civilizations.

Nearby cities

Phonsavan

Phonsavan is the capital of Xieng Khouang Province.

Xaisomboun

Xaisomboun, also known as Anouvong, is the capital of the youngest province in Laos.

Điện Biên Phủ

Famous as the site of the decisive battle that ended the First Indochina War.

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Nam Et-Phou Louey

This National Protected Area is one of Laos' most vital wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its biodiversity and the award-winning Nam Nern …

Nong Khai

Nong Khai is a city on the bank of the Mekong River, opposite the Laotian capital of Vientiane.

Pakxan

Pakxan is the capital of Bolikhamsai Province.

Muang Ngoi

Muang Ngoi is a picturesque riverside village surrounded by towering karst peaks, offering a tranquil escape along the Nam Ou River.

Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a major regional center in northeast Thailand, serving as a gateway to Laos.

Nong Khiaw

Nong Khiaw is picturesquely situated on the Nam Ou River, surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Nam Ngum Reservoir

A vast reservoir north of Vientiane, famous for its scenic islands, boat cruises, and floating restaurants.

Lai Châu

The capital of the province of the same name in one of Vietnam's most remote and mountainous regions.

Sin Ho

Sin Ho is a remote mountain town on a high plateau, famous for its cool climate, ethnic diversity, and traditional medicinal herbal baths.

Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a small town north of Vientiane.

History & landmarks

Buddha Park

An unusual sculpture park along the Mekong River that houses over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues.

Pha That Luang

The most important national monument in Laos, a large gold-covered Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane.

Nature

Nam Ngum River

One of the largest rivers in Laos and a major tributary of the Mekong, heavily utilized for hydroelectric power generation through dams.

Nam San River

A picturesque river in Bolikhamsai Province, winding through rugged karst landscapes and connecting rural communities.

More places

Lao Mulberry Silk Farm

An agricultural facility focused on cultivating mulberry trees for rearing silkworms.

Plain of Jars

A group of thousands of stone jars scattered across the Xiangkhoang Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nong Tang Battlefield

A lake and the surrounding crater-pocked hills where fierce fighting occurred during the Secret War in Laos.

Xiangkhoang Plateau

A large plateau in northern Laos, famous for the Plain of Jars, an Iron Age archaeological site.

Wat Phia Wat Ruins

An impressive ruin in Muang Khoun featuring a large seated Buddha statue exposed after the temple walls were destroyed by bombs.

Old Muang Khoun Ruins

The remains of the historic old capital of Xieng Khouang province, which was largely destroyed by heavy bombing.

Long Tieng

Formerly a covert CIA base and airport during the Secret War, located in a hidden valley.

Phu Bia Copper Mine

A significant mining project for gold, silver, and copper, operated by Phu Bia Mining, a key player in the economic development of Laos.