Plain of Jars: A Stone Age Mystery in Laos
Explore the enigmatic Plain of Jars in Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of mysterious stone jars dating back to the Iron Age.
Located on the Xieng Khouang Plateau in Laos, the Plain of Jars is one of Southeast Asia's most enigmatic archaeological sites. Thousands of stone jars, dating back to the Iron Age (500 BCE to 500 CE), are scattered across the landscape, their original purpose still a mystery. The jars range in size from 1 to 3 meters in height and can weigh up to several tons. The Plain of Jars comprises over 90 sites, with the most popular being Sites 1, 2, and 3. Site 1, also known as Thong Hai Hin, is the largest and most accessible, featuring a visitor center with information about the site's history. Site 2 offers dramatic views from atop a small hill, while Site 3 provides a more secluded experience amidst rice fields. While the exact purpose of the jars remains unknown, theories suggest they were used for burial rituals or food storage. The Plain of Jars also bears the scars of the Second Indochina War, with bomb craters and damaged jars serving as reminders of the region's turbulent past. Despite the challenges, efforts are underway to preserve and protect this unique cultural heritage site, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
Local tips
- Visit the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) UXO Visitor Information Centre in Phonsavan to learn about the ongoing efforts to clear unexploded ordnance from the area.
- Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for walking on uneven terrain, especially when exploring sites 2 and 3.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the Plain of Jars can get very hot during the day.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and dress modestly when visiting the sites.
- Stay on marked paths to avoid unexploded ordnance.
A brief summary to Plain of jar tour office
- phonsavan Phonsavan Phonsavan, Phonsavan, 00900, LA
- +8562055660696
Getting There
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Tuk-tuk
From Phonsavan city center, the most convenient way to reach the Plain of Jars is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey. A typical one-way trip to Site 1 should cost around 50,000 LAK. Confirm if the price includes waiting time if you plan to visit multiple sites. Remember that some roads to the sites, especially Sites 2 and 3, can be bumpy and unpaved.
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Motorbike
For independent travelers, renting a motorbike is a popular option. Several rental shops are available in Phonsavan, with prices ranging from 50,000 to 200,000 LAK per day depending on the bike's quality. Be aware that roads can be in poor condition, especially to more remote sites. Exercise caution and wear a helmet. Fuel costs are additional. Parking at Site 1 costs 2,000-5,000 LAK.
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Tour
Joining a guided tour is a hassle-free way to explore the Plain of Jars. Tours typically include transportation, entrance fees to the sites (15,000-35,000 LAK per site ), and a knowledgeable guide. Prices vary depending on the number of people in the group, starting from 150,000 LAK per person for a group tour. Private tours are also available for around 600,000 LAK. Confirm with the tour operator what sites are included and if lunch is provided.
Attractions Nearby to Plain of jar tour office
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ສວນສິງຫາ Soun Singha สวนสิงหา
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Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum
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ສວນ ຕູ້ລີ ທະວີຊັບ
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Laos War Memorial
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Vietnamese War Monument
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ເດີ່ນບຸນກີນຈຽງ ແຂວງຊຽງຂວາງ
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ຮ້ານນັ່ງຫຼີ້ນthecamping
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Mulberries
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ສວນດອກໄມ້ຄັງໄຂ
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Plain Of Jars Visitor Center
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Cánh đồng chum
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The Cave in the Plain of Jars
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The old Soviet Union settlement
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Phu Kheng Tunnel
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Phu Keng Jar Quarry Viewpoint 1
Landmarks nearby to Plain of jar tour office
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Plain of jar tour office
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Nice Guest House
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Anoulackkhenlao Hotel ໂຮງແຮມ ອານຸລັກແຄນລາວ
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Cranky-T Café and Bar
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Simmary
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Lieyphi Guesthouse
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Kong Keo Guesthouse, Tours & Motorbike rental
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Phonsavan Night Market
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ຊຽງຂວາງເຊັນເຕີ
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ຊຽງຂວາງເຊັນເຕີ
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ຕົວແທນຈຳໜ່າຍເຈນຕິໂກ
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Sipanya Guesthouse
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Favanh Mai Hotel
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Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, Xieng Khouang Province
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Mr. Souk’s Adventures