What is the Plain of Jars?

An archaeological landscape with thousands of ancient stone jars scattered across hillsides, dating to the Iron Age (500 BCE-500 CE). Their original purpose remains mysterious, though they're believed to be funerary vessels.

Is it safe to visit the Plain of Jars?

Yes, but only with official guides and on cleared paths. UXO clearance is ongoing, and visitors must stay within marked areas at all times.

How do I get to Xiangkhoang?

Fly to Xieng Khouang Airport (near Phonsavan) from Vientiane, or take an 8-10 hour bus from Vientiane or Luang Prabang on winding mountain roads.

What should I pack for Xiangkhoang?

Layered clothing for cool evenings, sturdy walking shoes, rain gear (seasonal), sun protection, insect repellent, flashlight, and any personal medications.

Can I visit ethnic villages?

Yes, but go with a reputable guide who can facilitate respectful interactions. Some villages welcome tourists and may offer homestays or cultural experiences.

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at major entry points, including the airport in Phonsavan. Check current requirements.

What is the best way to get to Xiangkhoang?

By bus from Vientiane (8-10 hours) or Luang Prabang (6-8 hours). Flights are available but limited.

Can I visit the Plain of Jars independently?

Yes, but a guide is recommended for deeper insight and safety regarding UXO.

Light clothing for day, warm layers for cool evenings, sturdy shoes, rain gear if visiting in wet season, and insect repellent.

Are there ATMs in Phonsavan?

Yes, a few ATMs are available, but they may run out of cash. Bring enough Lao kip from larger cities.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Lao phrases helps.

What is the local currency?

Lao kip (LAK). US dollars and Thai baht are accepted in some places but change is often in kip.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid pointing your feet at people or Buddha images. Do not touch monks or their robes.

Can I trek in Xiangkhoang?

Yes, there are several trekking routes through villages and hills. Hire a local guide for safety and cultural insight.

What is the food like?

Lao cuisine is similar to Thai, with sticky rice, larb, and grilled meats. Local specialties include jeow bong (chili paste) and buffalo meat.

Very limited. A few bars and restaurants in Phonsavan, but it's a quiet destination.

Xiangkhoang

ProvinceLaos, Asia

Xiangkhoang is a STATE in Laos, Asia.

Xiangkhoang Province in northeastern Laos is a land of ancient mystery and breathtaking highland landscapes. The region's crown jewel is the UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars, where thousands of enigmatic stone jars dating back 2,000 years dot the rolling hills, creating one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating archaeological sites. Beyond the jars, Xiangkhoang offers stunning natural beauty with cool mountain climates, lush valleys, and traditional Hmong and Khmu villages where visitors can experience authentic Lao highland culture. The provincial capital Phonsavan serves as the gateway to these wonders, while nearby sites like the old capital of Muang Khoun reveal French colonial ruins and ancient temples. Xiangkhoang's tragic history as the most heavily bombed region during the Vietnam War adds a sobering layer to visits, with bomb craters still visible and UXO clearance efforts ongoing. Today, travelers come for the unique combination of archaeological mystery, cultural immersion, and the serene beauty of Laos's high plateau region.

Best time to visit Xiangkhoang

November to February offers cool, dry weather with clear skies—ideal for exploring archaeological sites and enjoying mountain views. March to April is hotter but still dry. May to October is rainy season with lush greenery but difficult road conditions and limited visibility. The Hmong New Year (usually December) provides excellent cultural immersion opportunities.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cooling, less rain, 20-28°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Good transition month

Know before you go

Getting there

XKH

Xieng Khouang Airport

Domestic

5 km away

LPQ

Luang Prabang International Airport

International

180 km away

VTE

Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)

International

250 km away

Getting around

"Transport options are limited. In Phonsavan, tuk-tuks and shared jumbos (converted trucks) are common for short trips. Motorbike rentals are available but require extreme caution due to road conditions and UXO risks. Chartered minivans with drivers are best for visiting jar sites and remote areas. No ride-hailing apps operate here. For inter-province travel, buses connect Phonsavan to Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Roads are often unpaved and challenging—4WD vehicles recommended for independent travel."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Available in most guesthouses and cafes in Phonsavan

Local SIM

Local SIM cards from Unitel or Lao Telecom available in Phonsavan for around $3-5

Calling code

+856

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

UXO risk is the main concern. Otherwise, low crime. Roads can be dangerous.

Night safety

6/10

UXO risk is the main concern. Otherwise, low crime. Roads can be dangerous.

Transport

6/10

Scam risk

5/10

"UXO (unexploded ordnance) is the primary safety concern. Always stay on marked paths and never venture off-trail, especially around the Plain of Jars sites. Only visit jar sites with official guides. Petty theft can occur in Phonsavan—secure valuables. Road travel can be hazardous due to poor road conditions, especially during rainy season (May-October). Avoid traveling at night. Scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial tour operators—use registered guides. Political demonstrations should be avoided. Overall, Xiangkhoang is generally safe with common-sense precautions."

Police

191

Ambulance

195

Fire

190

Tourist Police

021-251128

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Xiangkhoang are limited. Phonsavan Provincial Hospital provides basic care, but serious conditions require evacuation to Vientiane or Thailand. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, especially for rural travel. Dengue fever is present—use insect repellent and mosquito nets. Altitude sickness is possible in higher areas. Drink only bottled or boiled water. UXO (unexploded ordnance) injuries remain a risk—never touch suspicious metal objects. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and villages—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes and temples. The head is considered sacred—never touch anyone's head. Feet are considered low—avoid pointing soles at people or Buddha images. Greet with a slight bow and 'sabaidee.' Tipping isn't customary but appreciated in tourist establishments. Always ask permission before photographing people. When visiting Hmong and Khmu villages, consider bringing small gifts like school supplies rather than money. Alcohol is commonly shared—declining politely is acceptable."

LaoHmongKhmu

Costs and practicals

Currency

Lao Kip (LAK) · ₭

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5

Hotels

$15-40

Local transport

$1-3

Cost notes

Xiangkhoang is very affordable. Budget guesthouses and local eateries are common.

Timezone

Asia/Vientiane +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

250,000

Area

15,880 km²

Government

Provincial Administration

ISO code

LA-14

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Provinco Siangĥuang, सिएंगखुअंग प्रान्त, Xiangkhoang, Sziangkhuang tartomány, Wilayah Xiangkhouang, Вилояти Сиангxоанг, 川圹省, シエンクワーン県, LA-XI, Provincia de Xiangkhoang, Xiangkhouang Séng, سیانگہوانگ صوبہ, Xiêng Khoảng, Xiang Khouang, Provinz Xieng Khouang, Xiengkhuang, Xieng Khouang, Сіангкхуанг, Prowincja Xieng Khouang, 씨앙쿠앙주, Xiangkhouang Province, シエンクワーン, ຊຽງຂວາງ, Xiangkhouang, แขวงเชียงขวาง, استان شیانگخوانگ, محافظة زيانغهوانغ, ខេត្តសៀងខ្វាង, Provinsi Xiangkhoang, Сиангкхуанг, ខ្វែងជើងខ្វែង, ແຂວງຊຽງຂວາງ, Siankuano provincija, Propinsi Xiangkhouang, Xieng Khuang, Provincia di Xiangkhoang, Muang Fonsavan, Muang Phonsavan, Muang Phônsavan, Phone Savan, Phong Savan, Phonsavan, Phônsavan, mu'anga phonsavana, muanfonsawan, muwaniግ ፎnisavani, muyam phanasabhana, mwaang fwnsafan, mwang fwnsafan, mwang fwnsawan, Муанг Фонсаван, مواang فونسافان, مواng فونسافان, موانگ فونساوان, मुआंग फोंसावान, মুয়াং ফনসাভান, ਮੁਆਂਗ ਫੋਂਸਾਵਾਨ, ໂພນສະຫວນ, ໂພນສະຫວັນ, ሙዋንግ ፎንሳቫን, ムアンフォンサワン

Capital CityMajor HubHistoric SiteOff the Beaten PathHikingCulturalNature