Laos Travel: Discover the Fascinating Plain of Jars

Highlights of the Trip

The Plain of Jars is an interesting archaeological area in Laos, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world every year. The Plain of Jars is home to many enormous stone jars, situated on high plateaus overlooking the valleys and mountains of the Xieng Khouang plateau. The jars range in size from one meter tall to three meters tall and are believed to have been carved from sandstone and limestone.

The site is also noted for its spectacular natural environment, filled with remarkable limestone karst formations, and winding rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers. The Plain of Jars is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique archaeological and cultural importance.

During this tour, we will take you to Site 1, Site 2, and Site 3 of the Plain of Jars. You can learn about the history and culture of this fascinating destination, while admiring the dramatic scenery and unique local lives. This enticing tour also takes you to some of Laos’ most impressive sights, including Vat Sisaket, Ho Phrakeo, and That Luang Stupa.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Vientiane

• Vat Sisaket: One of the oldest and most well-preserved temples in the country.
• Ho Phrakeo: A royal temple for the purpose of housing the Emerald Buddha.
• That Luang Stupa: An iconic symbol of the country and a significant religious monument for Buddhists around the world.

Phonesavanh

• Plain of Jars Site 1: The most famous and largest of the three main sites within the Plain of Jars.

Mouang Khoun

• Vat Phia Vat and Vat Tha Foune Temple Ruins: These temples are considered to be some of the oldest and most significant Buddhist monuments in the entire country, dating back to the 11th century.
• Plain of Jars Site 2 and 3.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Plain of Jars: A mysterious and captivating archaeological site that has puzzled researchers and historians for decades. This is a vast plateau covered in thousands of large stone jars scattered throughout the landscape. These stone jars range in size from one to three meters in height and are estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The sheer number of jars, estimated to be over 3,000, adds to the intrigue and mystery of the site. Visitors to the Plain of Jars are greeted with a vast, otherworldly landscape, dotted with these stone jars. The dramatic scenery and the mystery behind the jars make for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The site has recently been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, further cementing its importance and significance.

Phonesavanh Market: It is one of the largest and most popular markets in the country, offering a wide range of goods and services to locals and tourists alike. The market is named after its founder, Mr. Phonesavanh, who opened it in the 1980s. Ever since then, it has been a hub of activity and a favorite shopping destination for people from all walks of life.

Hill Tribe Villages: Stop at H’Mong, Thai Dam (Black Thai) and Phuan for a visit. Each tribe boasts a unique culture and way of life. These villages are home to various ethnic groups.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Laos

When you visit Laos, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including larb, a savoury meat salad made with minced or chopped pork, chicken, or beef, mixed with herbs, spices, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice and fish sauce. Sticky rice, or khao niaw, is a staple in Lao cuisine, and is eaten with almost every meal.

Accommodation of this Tour

Vientiane: Beaurivage Mekong (Superior Room).

Xiengkhuang (Phonesavanh): Vansana Hotel (Standard Room).

Explore our website or get in touch with us today to discover more about Laos travel or plan your dream Laos holiday itinerary.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Vientiane Airport

You will be greeted at Wattai Airport and then transferred to the Lao capital, Vientiane. Here you will check into your hotel before exploring the magnificent Vat Sisaket. This is the only temple in the city to remain standing since it was built in 1818 – surviving a Thai invasion a decade later. From there, visit the Ho Phrakeo, the chapel formerly used by the Royal family that contains an emerald Buddha from the time of the Lane Xang Kingdom. After this, you’ll take them to view the Patouxai monument and the iconic That Luang Stupa.

Day 2: Explore Phonesavanh

You will be picked up from your hotel in the afternoon for transfer to Vientiane’s Wattay airport for your flight to Phonesavanh, the newly established capital of Xiengkhouang Province. When you arrive, you will be met, transferred, and checked in to your hotel. The Plain of Jars is a large area around Phonesavanh, with hundreds of huge jars of unknown origin scattered across more than a dozen groups. Today, you will venture to Plain of Jars site 1, 10 km away from Phonesavanh, which is home to over 300 jars.

The Plain of Jars is composed of over 20 jar sites arranged in groups and singly on hills and low mountains across the plain. It has long been an enigma with the discovery of thousands of megalithic stone jars that have been left behind by an unknown population. Although there is no definite answer to who made these jars, or for what purpose, there are theories ranging from the jars being used during metalworking to those resulting from ancient burial rites.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Xiengkhouang – Uncover traditional Hill Tribes.

Following your breakfast, wander through the lively Phonesavanh market, where the hill tribes usually visit to exchange their goods, particularly venison. This will provide you with a perfect introduction into the culture and tradition of Laos. Then, we will hit the road and travel to Mouang Khoune, the former capital which encountered a heavy bombing throughout the Vietnam War. We stop at various hill tribe villages such as H’Mong, Thai Dam (Black Thai) and Phuan for a visit. After that, there will be a brief tour of the ruins of Vat Phia Vat and Vat Tha Foune temples at Mouang Khoune before having lunch at a local restaurant. Finally, on the way back to Phonesavanh, we also visit site 2 (home to numerous jars) and site 3 of the Plain of Jars, both located close to Mouang Khoune.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4: Vientiane

After a delicious breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return to Vientiane. Upon arrival at Vientiane’s Wattay airport, you will be met and taken to check in at your hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5: Vientiane Departure

Following breakfast, you will have some free time until you transfer to the airport for your flight out. Vientiane is an old and beautiful city, filled with ancient Buddhist temples, colourful markets, and a vibrant nightlife. It is the home of traditional Lao cuisine, and in your free time you can discover a range of exotic dishes to enjoy. You can also visit the vibrant local markets and explore sprawling city parks to soak up the culture and tradition of this charming city.

✓ Breakfast

Explore our website or get in touch with us today to discover more about Laos travel or plan your dream Laos holiday itinerary.

Price

£841

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Vientiane, explore Vat Sisaket, Ho Phrakeo, Patouxai monument, and That Luang Stupa.

Day 2: Fly to Phonesavanh, visit Plain of Jars site 1, learn about the mysterious stone jars’ origins.

Day 3: Discover hill tribe culture at Phonesavanh market, explore Mouang Khoune, visit hill tribe villages, temples, and Plain of Jars sites 2 and 3.

Day 4: Return to Vientiane, enjoy free time in the city.

Day 5: Depart from Vientiane, explore the city’s attractions, markets, and cuisine before departure.

FAQs

1. What is the significance of the Plain of Jars, and why are there so many scattered across the area? The Plain of Jars is a mysterious archaeological site featuring thousands of ancient stone jars, believed to be remnants of burial rituals or storage vessels, though their exact purpose remains unknown.
2. What can I expect to see and experience at the Phonesavanh market regarding hill tribe culture? At the Phonesavanh market, you’ll encounter hill tribes exchanging goods, offering insight into Laos’ diverse cultures and traditions, particularly through the trade of venison.
3. Is there any particular attire or gear recommended for exploring hill tribe villages and temples in Mouang Khoune? Comfortable attire and sturdy footwear are advisable for exploring hill tribe villages and temples in Mouang Khoune, allowing for easier navigation through varied terrain.
4. Are there any specific dietary considerations for meals during the tour, especially at local restaurants? While meals during the tour typically feature local cuisine, dietary preferences or restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice to ensure an enjoyable dining experience for all participants.
5. Can you provide more information about the history and cultural significance of Vat Sisaket, Ho Phrakeo, Patouxai monument, and That Luang Stupa in Vientiane? Vat Sisaket, Ho Phrakeo, Patouxai monument, and That Luang Stupa hold historical and cultural significance in Vientiane, representing architectural marvels, religious landmarks, and symbols of national pride, each with its unique stories and contributions to Laos’ heritage.