Plain Of Jars Tour

Day 1: Luang Prabang – Phonsavanh (L)

We leave Luang Prabang and travel along Road No. 13 through the highlands and breathtaking scenery to Xieng Khouang. Along the way, you can enjoy magnificent views and visit one of the many Hmong villages in the region. The Hmong are an Asian ethnic group from the mountainous regions of Laos and are also one of the subgroups of the Miao, an ethnic minority in southern China. They began migrating south in the 18th century due to political unrest and the search for more farmland.

Xieng Khouang, home to the Plain of Jars, is a well-known tourist attraction and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By 1973, every village in the province had been destroyed by American bombing during the Indochina War. Approximately two tons of bombs per inhabitant were dropped during the conflict, many of them in the Xieng Khouang area.

Despite this history, the region is strikingly beautiful, with mysterious ancient stone jars scattered among bomb craters—remnants of a turbulent past. Before reaching the Plain of Jars, we stop at Muang Sui, located about 50 km from Phonsavanh along Road No. 7.

The quiet town of Muang Sui is notable for its historical significance. During the Indochina War, it was the last position of the Nationalist Lao Army and the CIA, supported by Air America, before evacuation. Known as “Lima Site L-108,” remnants such as the runway and abandoned buildings can still be seen today.

Another reason to visit Muang Sui is its rich collection of Buddhist sites, including historic temples and caves. Some caves in the region were used as bomb shelters during the war, and remnants, such as medical waste, can still be found.

Overnight in Phonsavanh.

Day 2: Plain of Jars (B, L)

The Plain of Jars is a vast cultural site in Laos, featuring thousands of large stone jars. Archaeologists believe these jars were used between 1,500 and 2,000 years ago. Most excavated materials date from around 500 BC to 800 AD. Experts suggest they may have served as funeral urns or storage containers.

Local legends tell of a race of giants who once inhabited the area. According to folklore, an ancient king named Khun Cheung celebrated a great victory by creating the jars to brew and store large quantities of Lao rice wine.

These jars are scattered across the northern part of the Xieng Khouang Plateau, which meets the Annamese Cordillera—the main mountain range of Indochina, separating Laos and Vietnam.

In the context of the Vietnam War and the Secret War, the Plain of Jars often refers to the entire Xieng Khouang region. On the way to the sites, you may see old Russian tanks and large bomb craters, now preserved as historical remnants.

Today, you will visit Sites 1, 2, and 3 of the Plain of Jars; other areas remain unsafe. The tour concludes with a visit to Muang Khoun, the former royal capital of Xieng Khouang. Although heavily bombed during the war, a few French colonial buildings and temples remain, along with the famous That Foun Stupa, built in 1576. It is believed to contain the ashes of Lord Buddha brought from India.

Overnight in Phonsavanh.

Day 3: Phonsavanh – Luang Prabang (B, L)

In the morning, you may choose from optional activities such as visiting the local market (the Hmong Market in Nong Pet, held only on Sunday mornings) or the MAG Visitor Center in central Phonsavanh.

Later, transfer back to Luang Prabang, arriving in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.

(Alternatively, you may take a flight to Vientiane.)

Price Includes:

English-speaking guide

Transport with air conditioning

All entrance fees

Drinking water

Government taxes

Accommodation

Price Excludes:

Drinks/alcohol

Visa/border fees

All flights

Personal expenses

Travel insurance