Discover the Plain of Jars – Ancient History & War Legacy in Laos

Deep in the misty hills of Xieng Khouang Province, northeastern Laos, lies one of Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic archaeological sites — the Plain of Jars. Scattered across a high plateau are thousands of giant stone jars, some weighing several tons and dating back over 2,000 years. Despite decades of study, their true purpose remains a mystery, adding an aura of wonder to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
 

The Plain of Jars is more than just a historical puzzle. It’s a blend of ancient culture, war history, and rural Lao charm, surrounded by rugged mountains, friendly villages, and reminders of the Indochina conflicts.

📍 Where is the Plain of Jars?

Location: Xieng Khouang Plateau, Laos

Main Access Point: Town of Phonsavan, capital of Xieng Khouang Province

Elevation: ~1,100 meters above sea level

Coordinates: Approx. 19.45° N, 103.20° E

🛤️ How to Get to the Plain of Jars

✈️ By Air:

Domestic flights from Vientiane to Phonsavan Airport (XKH)

Airlines: Lao Airlines, Lao Skyway

Flight time: ~1 hour

🚌 By Road:

From Luang Prabang: 8–10 hours by bus or minivan

From Vientiane: 10–12 hours, often overnight

Roads are mountainous and scenic but winding

🏨 Where to Stay in Phonsavan

Budget:

Nice Guesthouse – Affordable, clean, and centrally located

Sipanya Guesthouse – Friendly staff and local charm

Mid-range:

Auberge de la Plain des Jarres – Hilltop bungalows, serene environment

Vansana Plain of Jars Hotel – Comfortable rooms with mountain views

Luxury:

Phonsavan is relatively underdeveloped; luxury options are limited, but some boutique stays offer upscale comfort and warm service.

🏺 Top Sites of the Plain of Jars

There are over 90 jar sites, but only a few are accessible to tourists due to unexploded ordnance (UXO). The three main sites are:

🗺️ Site 1 – The Most Visited

Location: 8 km southwest of Phonsavan

Number of jars: Over 300

Highlights: The largest jars, panoramic views, visitor center with exhibits

Accessibility: Paved walkways, suitable for all fitness levels

Fun Fact: One jar here weighs over 14 tons!

🗺️ Site 2 – Forest Charm

Location: 25 km from Phonsavan

Atmosphere: Jars nestled among pine trees and farmland

Unique features: Peaceful setting, fewer tourists

Accessibility: Dirt paths, moderate walk required

🗺️ Site 3 – Jars in the Rice Fields

Location: Near Ban Xieng Di village, ~35 km from town

Setting: Picturesque rural landscape

Journey: Includes a wooden footbridge and rice paddies

Tip: Wear good shoes and go in the morning to avoid heat

🕰️ History & Mystery of the Jars

Who Made Them?

Estimated to date back to the Iron Age (500 BCE – 500 CE)

Likely made by an ancient Southeast Asian culture, but no definitive creator is known

What Were They For?

Several theories exist:

Funerary urns: Most likely – bones and grave goods have been found nearby

Water or food storage: Less likely, due to remote locations

Fermentation vessels: Possibly for rice wine, according to local legends

Local Legends:

A mythical king named Khun Cheung created the jars to store rice wine for a victorious celebration

Some villagers believe the jars were created by giants

☠️ UXO and the Plain of Jars

War Legacy:

The region was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War (1964–1973)

Over 270 million bombs were dropped on Laos, and Xieng Khouang was one of the worst-hit areas

Many UXOs (unexploded ordnances) remain buried in the countryside

Safety:

Only visit marked paths and cleared areas

Organizations like MAG (Mines Advisory Group) are actively working to clear bombs

Visit the MAG Visitor Center in Phonsavan to learn more

📸 Best Photography Spots

Sunrise or sunset at Site 1 for glowing light on the jars

Site 3 for landscape shots with rice paddies and buffalo

Site 2’s forest setting for atmospheric, moody photos

🍲 Where to Eat in Phonsavan

Lao Dishes to Try:

Or Lam – Spicy stew with local herbs and vegetables

Laap – Minced meat salad with mint and lime

Sticky rice – Staple of Lao meals, often served in bamboo baskets

Recommended Restaurants:

Nisha Restaurant – Great Indian and Lao food

Cranky-T Restaurant – Cozy spot with Western and local dishes

Bamboozle Restaurant – Traveler favorite, with creative menu options

🌄 Things to Do Around Phonsavan

1. Visit the MAG UXO Visitor Center

Eye-opening exhibits about the bombing of Laos

Free to enter, donations encouraged

Learn how land is cleared and how locals live with this legacy

2. Explore Local Villages

Visit ethnic Hmong and Khmu communities

See traditional houses, textiles, and farming techniques

Homestay options available for immersive cultural experiences

3. Muang Khoun Ruins

Ancient capital of the Xieng Khouang Kingdom

Remains of stupas and colonial architecture

Heavily bombed during war, now a peaceful historical site

4. Hot Springs & Waterfalls

Tad Ka Waterfall – Scenic falls about 20 km from Phonsavan

Hot springs – Relaxing stop, but check current conditions locally

🗓️ Sample 2-Day Plain of Jars Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive in Phonsavan, visit MAG Center

Afternoon: Explore Plain of Jars Site 1

Evening: Lao dinner in town

Day 2:

Morning: Visit Site 2 and Site 3

Afternoon: Muang Khoun ruins and local village tour

Evening: Sunset photo session or relax at your guesthouse

☀️ Best Time to Visit the Plain of Jars

Dry Season (Nov – Mar):

Best time to visit — cool, dry weather and clear skies

Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and photography

Hot Season (Apr – May):

Warmer temperatures, but fewer crowds

Sites still accessible and enjoyable

Rainy Season (Jun – Oct):

Green and lush scenery

Be prepared for muddy paths and occasional travel delays

🎒 What to Pack for the Trip

Comfortable walking shoes

Light layers for warm days and cool nights

Sunscreen, hat, and water bottle

Flashlight (for early or late visits)

Camera or phone with extra battery

🧡 Why Visit the Plain of Jars?

The Plain of Jars offers a unique blend of archaeology, mystery, and history, unlike anywhere else in Southeast Asia. It's a place where stories of ancient civilizations and modern war legacy intertwine. The serenity of the landscape, combined with the haunting presence of stone jars and bomb craters, creates a deeply moving and educational travel experience.

💬 Final Thoughts from Your Tour Guide

As your guide, I’ve watched visitors arrive with curiosity and leave with awe. The Plain of Jars is not just about ancient relics — it’s about the resilience of the Lao people, the beauty of unexplored highlands, and the importance of preserving our past. If you seek history, authenticity, and soul-stirring landscapes, this destination is a must on your Laos itinerary.