Unraveling the Mystery of the Plain of Jars

Did you know that the Plain of Jars in Laos, with its ancient megalithic landscape, is one of Southeast Asia’s most significant prehistoric wonders?

Located near Phonsavan, the capital of Xieng Khouang Province in northeastern Laos, this archaeological site is home to thousands of massive stone jars scattered across the landscape. Their purpose remains a mystery, though researchers believe they may have been used for burial rituals during the late Iron Age.

What makes this place even more intriguing is that the jars appear either individually or in clusters of up to several hundred—with no definitive explanation for their existence.

Only three sites are open to tourists, as unexploded ordnance (UXO) from past conflicts still poses a danger in certain areas. Getting to the Plain of Jars requires some effort, as it is not the most accessible destination.

Travelers must first reach Phonsavan, which can be done by bus from major cities like Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane (the capital of Laos). For a faster route, Lao Airlines offers flights from Vientiane.

---

My Journey to the Plain of Jars

During my travels in Laos back in 2009, I visited the legendary Plain of Jars. Here are some highlights from my adventure.

I took an overnight bus from Luang Prabang and arrived in Phonsavan early in the morning. At that time, the only way for tourists to visit the sites was by hiring a minivan with a guide. The cost for a day trip was around US$80, but I was fortunate to share the expense with two Japanese travelers I met on the bus.

Today, visiting is much easier, with various tour companies offering guided trips to all three sites and other points of interest.

Site 2: The First Glimpse of the Jars

After a 40-minute drive, we arrived at Site 2. A short walk brought us to our first sighting of the mysterious stone jars, standing silently in the tranquil countryside.

Here are some interesting-looking Jars found at the Site.

Site 3: A Scenic Walk and Hidden Jars

Next, we visited Site 3, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant before setting off to explore.

Reaching this site was slightly more challenging, as we had to cross several makeshift bridges.

However, the journey was rewarding. Along the way, I watched buffaloes grazing and soaked in the serenity of the countryside.

Here, the jars varied in size and shape, offering a unique backdrop for photos. I couldn’t resist posing beside them, marveling at their sheer presence and mysterious past.

The Unexpected Stops: A Russian Tank & A Village Visit

On the way to our final destination, we stopped at an abandoned Russian tank—an unusual but interesting sight, seemingly left behind as a relic of war.

We also visited a small village, where locals demonstrated traditional weaving techniques and the process of making Lao whisky.

I enjoyed watching children cycling home from school while chickens and turkeys roamed freely, painting a charming picture of rural life.

Site 1: The Grand Finale

Our last stop was Site 1, the most impressive of them all. After a short uphill walk, we were greeted by a breathtaking view—a vast collection of stone jars clustered together on a hilltop.

This site stood out to me for several reasons.

Firstly, the sheer number of jars clustered together in one area was astonishing.

Next, I got to see and hug the largest jar found across all sites—a surreal experience given its size and history.

Finally, we spotted the only known jar lid, which, according to our guide, likely belonged to the largest jar.

As the sun began to set, I took my final photos, capturing the mysterious beauty of this ancient wonder before heading back to Phonsavan.

---

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2019, the Plain of Jars was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical and cultural significance. It is now Laos’ third UNESCO-listed site, further solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

If you’re planning a trip to Laos, make sure to include the Plain of Jars in your itinerary. It’s an adventure into the unknown, where history, mystery, and breathtaking landscapes come together in one unforgettable experience.

---

I Want to Hear from You!

Have you ever visited the Plain of Jars, or would you like to explore this fascinating site in the future? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

---

Recommended