Where ancient stones meet a remarkable modern history
High on the Xieng Khouang Plateau, Phonsavan is the gateway to one of Laos’s most mysterious archaeological landscapes. Across the surrounding hills and valleys, enormous stone jars have stood for thousands of years, their original purpose still the subject of archaeological research.
But Xieng Khouang is more than the Plain of Jars. The region has a distinctive highland landscape, traditional farming communities and a recent history deeply shaped by the conflicts of the 20th century.
Travelling through the area reveals a quieter side of Laos, where ancient archaeological sites sit alongside reminders of a much more recent past.
What is Phonsavan known for?
Phonsavan is best known as the main base for exploring the Plain of Jars, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of thousands of large stone jars spread across the Xieng Khouang landscape.
The area is also known for its wartime history. Xieng Khouang was heavily affected by the Indochina conflicts, and unexploded ordnance remains a serious issue in parts of the province.
Today, organisations working in the region continue to clear unexploded ordnance and support communities affected by the legacy of the conflicts.
Things to do in Phonsavan and Xieng Khouang
Explore the Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is the region’s defining attraction.
Rather than being a single archaeological site, it is a large collection of sites scattered across the plateau. The most accessible include Sites 1, 2 and 3, where enormous stone jars sit among grasslands, hills and pine forests.
Site 1 is the largest and one of the easiest to reach from Phonsavan. Sites 2 and 3 offer a different setting, with jars spread across rolling countryside and forested hills.
The purpose of the jars remains uncertain, although archaeological evidence suggests they were associated with ancient burial practices.
Learn about UXO clearance
The legacy of war is an important part of understanding modern Xieng Khouang.
The MAG Visitor Centre in Phonsavan explains the work involved in finding and removing unexploded ordnance left behind by the conflicts of the 1960s and 1970s.
Visitors can learn about the continuing clearance work and its importance to local communities.
Visit the old capital of Muang Khoun
The former capital of Xieng Khouang was largely destroyed during the wars, but several historic remains can still be found around Muang Khoun.
Among them is Wat Phiawat, with its large seated Buddha surrounded by the remains of the former temple.
The ruined structures and surrounding countryside provide a different perspective on the region’s history beyond the Plain of Jars.
Visit Ban Napia
The village of Ban Napia, sometimes called Spoon Village, is known for producing aluminium spoons and other objects from recycled metal.
The craft developed partly from the availability of aluminium recovered from wartime scrap, turning material associated with the region’s difficult history into useful household objects and souvenirs.
How do I get to Phonsavan?
By air
Xieng Khouang Airport (XAY) provides domestic connections with Vientiane.
Flight schedules can change, so we check current availability when arranging tickets.
From Luang Prabang
Phonsavan is connected to Luang Prabang by road. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on road conditions and the vehicle.
The route travels through mountainous terrain, making the journey considerably longer than the distance on a map might suggest.
From Vientiane
Road transport connects Vientiane with Phonsavan, with the journey generally taking around 7–8 hours.
For travellers who prefer to save time, flying is another option.
How do I get around Phonsavan?
The main attractions around Xieng Khouang are spread across a large area, so having suitable transport is important.
Local tuk-tuks can be arranged for shorter journeys, while motorbikes provide greater independence for experienced riders.
For visitors who want to explore several Plain of Jars sites, Muang Khoun and surrounding villages in one day, a private car or minivan with a driver is often the most convenient option.
How long should I stay in Phonsavan?
Two nights is a good starting point for exploring the main sights.
This gives you enough time to visit several Plain of Jars sites and learn about the region’s history.
Three nights or more allows you to explore further into the countryside, visit Muang Khoun and spend more time discovering the communities around the plateau.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Plain of Jars?
The Plain of Jars is an archaeological landscape containing thousands of large stone jars dating from the Iron Age. The sites are spread across the Xieng Khouang Plateau.
Why are there stone jars in Xieng Khouang?
The exact purpose of the jars is not completely known. Archaeological evidence indicates that they were associated with mortuary and burial practices.
How many Plain of Jars sites can I visit?
There are many archaeological sites throughout the region, but Sites 1, 2 and 3 are among the most accessible and commonly visited by travellers.
How long does it take to visit the Plain of Jars?
A full day is usually enough to visit several of the main sites. Travellers with more time can explore additional archaeological and historical sites around Xieng Khouang.
Is Phonsavan safe to visit?
Tourist areas and established visitor routes are accessible, but unexploded ordnance remains present in parts of Xieng Khouang.
Stay on established paths and follow local signs and guidance. Never touch or approach unfamiliar metal objects or suspected ordnance.
Can I visit the Plain of Jars independently?
Some sites can be visited independently, but organised tours or a private driver can make the experience considerably easier because the archaeological sites are spread across the countryside.
How do I get from Luang Prabang to Phonsavan?
You can travel by minivan, bus or private vehicle. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours.
Can I fly from Vientiane to Phonsavan?
Yes. Domestic flights connect Vientiane with Xieng Khouang Airport, subject to the current flight schedule.
Planning your journey to Xieng Khouang?
Phonsavan makes an interesting addition to a northern Laos itinerary, particularly for travellers interested in archaeology and the country’s more recent history.
Plain of Jars
Explore the ancient archaeological sites scattered across the plateau.
History & culture
Discover Muang Khoun and learn about the continuing work to clear unexploded ordnance.
Transport
Travel to Phonsavan from Luang Prabang or Vientiane by road or air.
Tours
Arrange guided visits to the Plain of Jars and surrounding attractions.