The Plain of Jars: An Enigmatic Archaeological Landscape
Explore the enigmatic Plain of Jars in Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of mysterious stone jars from the Iron Age.
The Plain of Jars is a megalithic archaeological site in Laos, consisting of thousands of stone jars scattered across the Xiangkhoang Plateau. These jars, varying in size and shape, are believed to have been used for funerary practices during the Iron Age, between 500 BCE and 500 CE. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to attract tourists, scientists, and archaeologists.
A brief summary to Plain Of Jars Tour
- F58M+9PQ, Phonsavan, LA
- +856302230789
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather.
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the jars.
- Stick to marked paths to avoid unexploded ordnance.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the sites.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities are minimal.
Getting There
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Walking
From most guesthouses in Phonsavan, the Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum is a good starting point. From there, head southwest on Route 7. Site 1 is approximately 15 km southwest of Phonsavan. Follow the signs; the route is well-marked. The final 2.5km is along a well-maintained dirt road. Site 2 and 3 are a bit further out and best accessed together. From Site 2, there is an easy 30-minute walk to Site 3 via Ban Xiengoy village. Be sure to follow the marked paths. Entrance fees for each site are between 30,000-35,000 kip. Parking for a bike at Jar Site 1 costs 2,000 kip.
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Public Transport
The most common way to arrive in Phonsavan is by bus from Luang Prabang or Vientiane. From the Phonsavan bus station, you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to your accommodation. Negotiate the price beforehand; a short trip to town should cost around 20,000-30,000 kip. To reach the Plain of Jars sites, you can hire a tuk-tuk or join a tour. A tuk-tuk for the day to visit the main sites will cost approximately 200,000-300,000 kip, depending on your negotiation skills. Tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, costing around 1,800,000 kip per person, but the price drops considerably the more people there are on the tour.
Discover more about Plain Of Jars Tour
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Plain Of Jars Tour
0.0 km
Discover the enigmatic Plain of Jars in Laos, an ancient archaeological marvel surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history.
Pukyo Belgian-Lao Bed & Breakfast
2.0 km
Experience Belgian comfort and Lao hospitality at Pukyo Bed & Breakfast, your peaceful retreat in Phonsavan.
Xieng Kouang Tourism Office
2.1 km
Your starting point for exploring the Plain of Jars and the captivating cultural and historical landscapes of Xieng Khouang Province.
Mr. Souk’s Adventures
2.2 km
Explore the enchanting beauty and rich culture of the region with Mr. Souk’s Adventures, your premier tour operator for unforgettable experiences.
Xieng Khouang Airport
2.6 km
Your gateway to the Plain of Jars: Explore the mysteries of Xieng Khouang from this convenient domestic airport.
Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, Xieng Khouang Province
3.0 km
Discover the cultural treasures of Xieng Khouang at the Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, your gateway to exploring Laos’s enchanting heritage.
Favanh Mai Hotel
3.3 km
A modern and comfortable hotel in central Phonsavan, perfect for exploring the Plain of Jars and Xieng Khouang's historical sites.
ຕົວແທນຈຳໜ່າຍເຈນຕິໂກ
3.7 km
Discover Phonsavan’s local store, a cultural gem offering authentic Laotian products and a glimpse into everyday life in Laos.
Phonsavan Night Market
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Laos at Phonsavan's bustling night market, a sensory feast for every traveler.
ຊຽງຂວາງເຊັນເຕີ
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Phonsavan at Xieng Khouang Center, a bustling market with local produce, crafts, and authentic Lao flavors.
ຊຽງຂວາງເຊັນເຕີ
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Laos at Xieng Khouang Center in Phonsavan, a bustling market with local produce, handicrafts, and authentic flavors.
Simmary
3.9 km
Authentic Laotian cuisine in Phonsavan, offering a delicious and affordable taste of local flavors.
Cranky-T Café and Bar
3.9 km
Experience the cozy charm of Cranky-T Café and Bar in Phonsavan, Laos, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere for every traveler.
Nice Guest House
4.0 km
Discover comfort and culture at Nice Guest House in Phonsavan, where authentic hospitality meets scenic adventures in Laos.
Anoulackkhenlao Hotel ໂຮງແຮມ ອານຸລັກແຄນລາວ
4.0 km
Comfortable and convenient hotel in Phonsavan, perfect for exploring the Plain of Jars and surrounding attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
ເດີ່ນບຸນກີນຈຽງ ແຂວງຊຽງຂວາງ
2.7 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Phonsavan Park, a serene retreat in the heart of Laos, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Vietnamese War Monument
3.5 km
Explore the Vietnamese War Monument in Phonsavan, a powerful symbol of resilience and history amidst beautiful landscapes.
ຮ້ານນັ່ງຫຼີ້ນthecamping
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of The Camping in Phonsavan, where nature and culture intertwine for unforgettable memories.
Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum
3.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of Laos at the Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum in Phonsavan.
ສວນ ຕູ້ລີ ທະວີຊັບ
4.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Phonsavan's garden, a perfect escape for nature lovers and a serene retreat in Laos.
Laos War Memorial
4.0 km
Discover the Laos War Memorial in Phonsavan, a serene tribute to resilience, peace, and the historical struggles of the Lao people amidst stunning landscapes.
MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre, Phonsavan
4.1 km
Discover the history and ongoing efforts to clear unexploded ordnance at the MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre in Phonsavan, Laos.
ສວນສິງຫາ Soun Singha สวนสิงหา
4.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and local culture at Soun Singha Park, a tranquil oasis in Phonsavan, Laos perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Cánh đồng chum
5.0 km
Discover the captivating mystery of the Plain of Jars in Laos, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty.
The Cave in the Plain of Jars
5.1 km
Discover the enchanting Cave in the Plain of Jars, a blend of ancient history and natural beauty in the heart of Laos's mysterious landscape.
Plain Of Jars Visitor Center
5.2 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Laos at the Plain of Jars Visitor Center, your gateway to exploring UNESCO World Heritage wonders.
ສວນດອກໄມ້ຄັງໄຂ
8.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Ban Houa Park, a serene escape in Laos featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and peaceful picnic spots.
Phu Kheng Tunnel
10.1 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Phu Kheng Tunnel in Phonsavan, Laos - a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Phu Keng Jar Quarry Viewpoint 1
11.0 km
Experience the ancient wonders of Phu Keng Jar Quarry Viewpoint, where history and breathtaking landscapes converge in Phonsavan, Laos.
The old Soviet Union settlement
13.5 km
Explore the Old Soviet Union settlement in Phonsavan, a unique tourist attraction highlighting Laos's historical and cultural evolution.
Essential places to dine
ຮ້ານ ນາງບົວພັນ
1.3 km
Savor authentic Lao cuisine at ຮ້ານ ນາງບົວພ╩ນ in Phonsavan - where every dish tells a story!
Vilayphat Noodle Shop
1.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Laos at Vilayphat Noodle Shop in Phonsavan, where every bowl tells a story.
ຮ້ານປີ້ງແບ້ແອ່ນຟ້າ
1.5 km
Savor authentic Lao flavors at ຮ້ານປີ້ງແບ້ແອ่ນฟາ in Phonsavan - a culinary gem showcasing traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
Hẻm Bia Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience authentic Lao seafood cuisine at Hẻm Bia Restaurant in Phonsavan – a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Aroma Food Bakery Xiengkhouang Laos
1.8 km
Discover the flavors of Laos at Aroma Food Bakery in Xiengkhouang – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Lao restaurant
1.8 km
Savor authentic Laotian flavors in Phonsavan's premier restaurant featuring traditional dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
ຮ້ານ ເຝີທາດຂາວ
1.8 km
Experience authentic Lao cuisine at ຮ້ານ ເຝີທາດຂາວ in Phonsavan—where every dish tells a story.
ຮ້ານອາຫານແອນຟິວ
1.9 km
Savor authentic Lao dishes at ຮ້ານອາຫານແອນຟິວ in Phonsavan - where every meal tells a story.
Noodle soup ຮ້ານເຂົ້າປຸ້ນ
1.9 km
Experience authentic Lao flavors at Noodle Soup ຮ້ານເຂົ້າປຸ້ນ in Phonsavan - where every bowl tells a story.
ຮ້ານ ຍົກຈອກ
2.0 km
Experience authentic Lao flavors at ຮ້ານ ຍົກຈໍ in Phonsavan, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
ร้าน สาลาเบย ยกจอก
2.0 km
Experience authentic Laotian cuisine at Sala Bey Yok Jok in Phonsavan – a must-visit restaurant blending tradition with flavor.
Sainamkat Restaurant
2.0 km
Discover authentic Laotian cuisine at Sainamkat Restaurant in Phonsavan - A must-visit for every traveler seeking local flavors.
Nakat restaurant XKH
2.0 km
Experience authentic Laotian cuisine at Nakat Restaurant in Phonsavan - a culinary delight waiting to be discovered.
Sabaidee Xiengkhouang
2.1 km
Discover authentic Lao cuisine at Sabaidee Xiengkhouang in Phonsavan - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
ຮ້ານອາຫານທັອບຟາຍ Top 5 Restaurant
2.1 km
Savor authentic Laotian flavors at Top 5 Restaurant in Phonsavan – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ຮ້ານຊື້-ຂາຍລົດບ້ານໂງຍ,ເມືອງແປກ,ແຂວງຊຽງຂວາງ
0.3 km
Discover unique local crafts and vibrant culture at the Shopping Mall in Phonsavan, where shopping meets Laotian heritage.
ຮ້ານຂາຍເຄື່ອງກໍ່ສ້າງພອນ+ຫລ້າ
1.2 km
Discover the essence of Phonsavan through its local grocery store, where fresh produce and cultural flavors come together.
Shopping
1.4 km
Discover the essence of local culture at Phonsavan's vibrant shopping mall, offering unique handicrafts, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.
Xiengkhouang black garlic ກະທຽມດຳຊຽງຂວາງ
1.5 km
Explore Phonsavan's culinary gem - Xiengkhouang Black Garlic, where local flavors and health meet in every delicious bite.
ບ້ານໂພນສະຫັວນ
1.5 km
Experience local culture and flavors at ບ້ານໂພນສະຫັວນ, a charming grocery store in Phonsavan offering fresh produce and unique Laotian products.
ໂຮງແຮມລະອອງດາວ
1.5 km
Explore the cultural treasures of ໂຮງແຮມລະອອງດາວ, a charming store in Phonsavan offering unique crafts and souvenirs.
Sinnaly bueaty shop (ຮ້ານຂາຍເຄື່ອງສໍາອາງ)
1.5 km
Explore the unique offerings of Sinnaly Beauty Shop in Phonsavan, where local beauty traditions meet modern cosmetics for an unforgettable shopping experience.
ຮ້ານ ເຊໂດນ ວໍເຕີ ( Xedon Warter Shop)
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant flavors and authentic products at Xedon Warter Shop in Pakxe, a treasure trove of local Lao culture and culinary delights.
Garden Coffee Shop
1.6 km
Discover the warmth of Laos at Garden Coffee Shop, where aromatic brews meet cozy ambiance in the heart of Phonsavan.
Xiengloei Cafe
1.6 km
Discover the aromatic charm of Xiengloei Cafe in Phonsavan, a perfect spot for coffee lovers seeking relaxation and local flavors.
Home Appliances Store
1.8 km
Explore Phonsavan's top electronics store for quality home appliances that enhance your living experience.
ຮ້ານ 3 ແຍກໄຟແດງນ້ຳຫງຳ ຂາຍກະບອງເພັດ - ຖົງຕີນ
2.0 km
Experience the charm of ຮ້ານ 3 ແຍກໄຟແດງນ້ຳຫງຳ, where local culture and exquisite gift baskets come together in the heart of ເມືອງແປກ.
ຮ້ານເກີບໜັງມີລາຊູສ໌MILASHOES
2.0 km
Discover stylish footwear at MILASHOES in ນຳ້ຫງຳ້ໂພນສະຫວັນ, blending local craftsmanship with modern trends.
Morning Market
2.0 km
Discover Phonsavan's Morning Market, where fresh produce and local flavors unite in a vibrant cultural experience.
Võ Đại Tú Anh
2.2 km
Discover a unique shoe shopping experience at Võ Đại Tú Anh in Phonsavan, blending local culture with stylish footwear options.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
FriendZone -
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at FriendZone, Phonsavan's top bar offering diverse drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
迪芭音乐餐吧
1.8 km
Discover the lively 迪芭音乐餐吧 in Phonsavan, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife and live music, perfect for tourists seeking fun.
迪芭音乐餐吧
1.8 km
Explore the lively atmosphere of 迪芭音乐餐吧, a vibrant bar in Phonsavan offering live music and a delightful drink selection for an unforgettable night.
ມາຫຼີ້ນບາຣ໌
2.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance of ມາຫຼີ້ນບາຣ໌, a vibrant bar in Phonsavan that offers a unique taste of Lao nightlife and unforgettable experiences.
ມາຫຼີ້ນບາຣ໌
2.3 km
Immerse yourself in the lively nightlife of Phonsavan at ມາຫຼີ້ນບາຣ໌, where drinks, music, and memories come together in a vibrant setting.
ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ
2.4 km
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ, a must-visit bar in Phonsavan for authentic Lao culture and vibrant nightlife.
ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ
2.4 km
Experience authentic Lao flavors in a vibrant setting at ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ, the perfect blend of culture and cuisine.
ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ
2.4 km
Experience authentic Lao cuisine and vibrant nightlife at ຮ້ານອາຫານຕົ້ນແປກ in Phonsavan, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
First Love Bar1
2.5 km
Discover the cozy charm of First Love Bar in Phonsavan, where refreshing drinks and warm hospitality await every traveler.
Tree Town Restaurant and Pub (ຮ້ານອາຫານ&ບັນເທີງ ທີທາວ)
2.7 km
Discover the lively essence of Phonsavan at Tree Town Restaurant and Pub, where culture meets nightlife in a vibrant disco club atmosphere.
The king bar and restaurant
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The King Bar and Restaurant in Phonsavan, where local flavors meet a welcoming ambiance.
ເທັກ Nana night club
3.6 km
Discover the electrifying ambiance of Tech Nana Night Club in Phonsavan, where music and culture collide for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ in Phonsavan, where local flavors meet a lively nightlife experience.
ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ
4.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ in Phonsavan, where traditional Laotian culture meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.
ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ
4.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Phonsavan at ນັ່ງຊິວ ບາຣ໌ກູ, where locals and travelers mingle over refreshing drinks and great music.