Ever curious about the ancient stone jars in Laos’ Plain of Jars? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with mystery. It hosts around 2000 jars from 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. So, it’s not just beautiful scenery; it’s a deep dive into history.
Our Laos travel guide offers a detailed Plain of Jars itinerary for 5 days. You’ll see the rich culture and stunning sights of this unique place. Get ready for an adventure through charming markets and historic finds.
Introduction to the Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is an amazing site in Xieng Khouang Province, Laos. It’s famous for its ancient stone jars spread across the land. The jars are about 2,000 years old, but their origin and use are still guessed at.
Start your trip to the Plain of Jars in the welcoming town of Phonsavan. From here, visiting several jar sites is easy. At Site 1, Thong Hai Hin, you’ll see over 300 jars. One of them is huge, weighing more than 10 tons and almost 10 feet tall. The entry fees are quite low, about $0.48 to $0.72.
Exploring local culture is a must during your visit. Your travel guide to Laos will likely recommend the Phonsavanh market. There’s also an exhibit with items from the Indochina War. Plus, don’t miss the Tham Piew cave or the boat ride in Kong Lor Cave. These experiences will show you more of the area’s beauty.
Your stay will have great transportation choices, like private cars. Meals are included too, adding to the cultural feel of your trip. With its mix of history, nature, and culture, the Plain of Jars will be a trip to remember.
Historical Significance of the Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is historically important, showing a mix of culture and archaeology. It has thousands of stone jars across Xiangkhouang Province’s valleys and foothills. Out of the 90 sites found, jars are made from sandstone and granite. They stand between 1 to 3 meters tall. Most are simple, but one has a frogman carved on it.
In July 2019, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This marked its importance in Laos’s archaeology. Researchers found over 2,100 stone jars used for ancient burials back in the Iron Age. They think these jars held ashes of young people.
Local stories say giants made the jars for storing rice beer after a win. Research shows this site helps us understand Southeast Asia’s history from before our time, dating to 2000 BCE.
Yet, the area remains largely unexplored. This is because of unexploded bombs. Only less than 10% of the sites are safe to visit. But, there could be over 10,000 jars still hidden, waiting to be discovered.
Getting to Phonsavan: Your Gateway to the Plain of Jars
Phonsavan is your main stop for visiting the Plain of Jars. It’s just 15 minutes away from the nearest jar sites. This city is centrally located, 260 km from Luang Prabang, 235 km from Vang Vieng, and 350 km from Vientiane. It’s perfect for those looking to explore the area’s archaeological wonders.
Getting to Phonsavan is now easier with more travel options. Buses from Luang Prabang take about 8 hours for the 263 km journey. Buses from Vang Vieng take about 7-8 hours to cover 234 km. For more freedom, you can rent bikes or motorbikes to explore on your own time.
Phonsavan sits about 1,100 meters above sea level, giving it a unique climate. This high position, along with better roads, makes it simple to visit the ancient stone jars. These jars are over 2,000 years old, adding mystery to your adventure.
The Plain of Jars is rich in history. There are over 90 sites with up to 400 stone jars each. Entry costs 20,000 LAK per location. For a good night’s rest, try “Nice Guest House.” It offers comfortable rooms starting at 400 Baht per night.
| Travel Route | Distance (km) | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Luang Prabang to Phonsavan | 263 | 8 hours |
| Vang Vieng to Phonsavan | 234 | 7-8 hours |
| Vientiane to Phonsavan | 350 | Varies |
Your trip to Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars is sure to be full of discovery and adventure.
Plain of Jars Itinerary 5 Days
Planning a 5-day Plain of Jars tour immerses you in a breathtaking world. Each day offers new visits and interactions, giving you a journey filled with culture and history in Laos.
Day 1: Arrival in Phonsavan and Site 1 Exploration
Begin your journey in Phonsavan, the start of your Plain of Jars adventure. At Site 1, you’ll see over 300 jars spread out. There is a 15,000 kip admission and a 3,000 kip parking fee. Capture amazing photos and dive into the history of this UNESCO site.
Day 2: Visiting Sites 2 and 3
Day two takes you to Sites 2 and 3, quieter and just as stunning. Each site charges a 10,000 kip entry fee. You can hire a driver for about $50 to shuttle between these fascinating places, making your journey even richer.
Day 3: Discovering Local Villages and Culture
Your third day is about Laotian culture and history. Visit the Hmong villages and Tham Piew cave, about 50 kilometers away. Discover stories of resilience amid challenges, like UXOs in the countryside.
Day 4: Hidden Gems Around the Plain of Jars
Day four invites you to explore hidden gems. Relax by the Hin Bun River and explore Kong Lor Cave, 7.5 kilometers long. With fewer tourists, you connect more deeply with the local culture. Renting a motorbike for $10 lets you explore freely.
Day 5: Capturing Memories and Departure
On your last day, reflect on your adventure. Enjoy breakfast and soak in the last moments of this beautiful landscape. Leave Phonsavan with memories and insights from an unforgettable journey.
Must-See Attractions in the Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars offers a link to captivating landscapes and ancient secrets. At Sites 1, 2, and 3, visitors find unique features that highlight this historical region’s essence.
Site 1 is known for its massive stone jars, with origins dating back thousands of years. A visitor center there gives vital details about the artifacts and their importance. As you explore, the history seems palpable amid the beautiful surroundings.
Site 2 offers beautiful views and a tranquil setting. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude. Its stunning scenes are ideal for photos or quiet contemplation amidst nature’s splendor.
At Site 3, find yourself surrounded by magical vibes, tall trees, and greenery. This serene environment boosts the feeling of adventure, leaving lasting memories of your visit to Xieng Khouang’s key spots.
The area’s local villages and cultural spots, near Phonsavan, add more layers to your journey. There, witness traditions and customs that provide a deeper insight into the region’s vibrant culture.
| Site | Unique Features | Visitor Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Site 1 | Large stone jars, visitor center | Informative & historical immersion |
| Site 2 | Stunning views, less crowded | Peaceful reflection & photography |
| Site 3 | Magical ambiance, surrounded by trees | Nature immersion & picturesque setting |
Get ready for an adventure at these must-see attractions in Plain of Jars. Each spot beckons you to uncover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Xieng Khouang.
Tips for Visiting the Plain of Jars
When planning your trip to the Plain of Jars, keep some key tips in mind. Comfy walking shoes are a must for the rugged terrain. This way, you can enjoy exploring the amazing stone jars. It’s also important to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Having a flexible schedule can make your trip even better. You might find special places not many know about. Chatting with local guides will help you learn the deep history of the jars and local culture. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss. Also, travel experts in Laos recommend getting travel insurance for extra safety.
The following table summarizes useful tips for your journey:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Wear Comfortable Shoes | Essential for navigating uneven surfaces at the jar sites. |
| Stay Hydrated | Carry enough water to stay refreshed during your explorations. |
| Flexible Itinerary | Allows for spontaneous visits to additional attractions. |
| Engage Local Guides | Provides deeper insights into the history and culture. |
| Travel Insurance | Offers peace of mind and coverage for unexpected events. |
Safety Measures and Unexploded Ordinance Awareness
Visiting the Plain of Jars is an incredible journey, but it comes with risks. Laos, especially Xieng Khouang province, was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War. This has left many unexploded bombs that are dangerous to both visitors and locals.
To stay safe at the Plain of Jars, always be alert and follow all warnings. Don’t wander off the paths at jar sites. Even though Jar Sites 1, 2, and 3 have been cleared, it’s still important to be aware.
The Mine Advisory Group (MAG) helps remove unexploded bombs in Laos and educates tourists. By joining guided tours, you travel safely and learn about the area’s history.
About 20 million unexploded bombs remain in Laos. Being careful at this archaeological site is crucial. By following safety rules, you help ongoing efforts to reduce risks from these bombs. Stay informed and safely enjoy exploring the Plain of Jars.
Conclusion
Your trip to the Plain of Jars is a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. This journey sheds light on ancient burial practices through the megalithic jars dating back to the Iron Age. Each jar site tells a story from long ago, making your visit memorable.
Visiting the seven cleared sites, like Site 52 with its 392 jars next to a Hmong village, deepens your cultural understanding. You spent five days moving from old wonders to lively local culture. This made your trip both educational and fun. The Plain of Jars is a must-see for travelers, thanks to these experiences.
This journey lets you connect with the land and its people in a special way. The memories you make and the insights from the summary of the Plain of Jars visit highlight Lao history’s richness. Taking stories of ancient jars and Lao culture back home makes your experience unforgettable.
