The Plain of Jars is one of the most enigmatic archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Located on the Xieng Khouang plateau in northeastern Laos, it takes its name from the hundreds of large stone jars scattered across the verdant hills—whose origin remains partially mysterious.

The jars: an archaeological enigma

There are over 2,000 stone jars spread across some twenty sites around the town of Phonsavan. These jars measure between 1 and 3 meters in height and can weigh several tons. Archaeologists estimate that they date from the Iron Age (between 500 BC and 500 AD) and were used as funerary urns or for storing fermented rice. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019, the Plain of Jars is now one of Laos’s major attractions.

Sites to visit

Site 1—the most accessible

Site 1 is the largest and most visited, with over 300 jars. It is easily accessible from Phonsavan and has good infrastructure (marked trails, information panels). It is the best starting point for understanding the site.

Sites 2 and 3—wilder

Site 2 (Hai Hin Phu Salato) and Site 3 (Hai Hin Lat Khai) are more isolated and require a short walk through the rice fields. Less frequented, they offer a more authentic atmosphere and superb bucolic landscapes.

The context of the Secret War

The Xieng Khouang plateau was one of the most heavily bombed territories in history during the American Secret War in Laos (1964–1973). Millions of cluster bombs (UXO) are still buried in the region’s soil, which explains the strictly marked access to the sites. The MAG organization is actively working on demining. This poignant history is an integral part of the visit.

Phonsavan: the gateway

Phonsavan is the main town in Xieng Khouang province, at approximately 1,000 meters altitude. It is a functional town, rebuilt after the bombings, with good accommodation and restaurants. The morning market is lively and offers a beautiful glimpse into the local life of the Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups.

How to get to Phonsavan

The most convenient way is to take a flight from Vientiane (40 min) with Lao Airlines. The road from Vientiane (approximately 10 hours by bus) or from Luang Prabang (7–8 hours) is beautiful but long and sometimes bumpy. If you have time, the road from Luang Prabang offers breathtaking mountain panoramas.

When to visit the Plain of Jars?

The best time to visit Xieng Khouang is the dry season, from November to April. During the rainy season (May–October), the vegetation is lush but the trails can become muddy. The region is cool at altitude—bring a sweater for the evening even during the hot season.

The Plain of Jars with Asia Safari

Asia Safari includes the Plain of Jars in several of its northern Laos tours. Our local team knows the best sites and can organize a private visit with a French-speaking guide to explore the fascinating history of this UNESCO site in depth. Contact us to include Xieng Khouang in your itinerary.

Include the Plain of Jars in your tour. Discover our off-the-beaten-path northern Laos tours or our 15-day Laos tour that passes through Xieng Khouang.