Plain of Jars

Located in the Xiang Khouang Plateau on the highlands of Laos, the Plain of Jars is an impressive collection of stone jars of different sizes and is recognized as one of the unique prehistoric archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

The mysterious origins of the Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars is home to hundreds of large stone jars, mostly made of sandstone, ranging from 1 to 3 meters in height and weighing as much as 10 tons. Despite extensive research, the exact origin and purpose of these jars remain a mystery. Many theories exist, with local beliefs suggesting they were used in ancient burial rites, to brew rice wine, or to store rainwater for travelers on long caravan journeys. The true function of these fascinating jars continues to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike, adding to the mystique and allure of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Exploring the safe sites of the Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars has several accessible and safe sites, including Site 1, Site 2, Site 3, and the Quarry. Site 1 is the easiest to reach and offers a great view of the massive jars. Site 2 provides stunning vistas and is a popular spot for visitors, with the eastern section being the most visited. From Site 2, visitors can hike to Site 3, which is more tranquil and less crowded. While exploring, it’s important to stay on marked paths due to the risk of unexploded ordnance in the area. Other sites, like Site 16, 23, and 52, are less accessible but can be explored with a guide.

Local efforts to remove explosives and recycle war remnants

Despite efforts to clear unexploded ordnance from the region, the Plain of Jars remains a reminder of the Secret War during the 1960s. Locals creatively recycle remnants into useful items, such as spoons and building materials.

How to get to the Plain of Jars

The closest town to the Plain of Jars is Phonsavan, the capital of Xiang Khouang. Visitors can fly into Phonsavan from Luang Prabang or Vientiane or take a road trip from these cities to explore the site.

n serves flights connecting Luang Prabang and Vientiane. You will get a breathtaking view of Jar Site 1 when taking off. The other option by road is using a private car starting from these 2 big cities and Vang Vieng.

 

Best time to visit the Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars has a subtropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C. The best time to visit is between November and March during the dry season.