Situated in Laos’ central plains of the Xiangkhoang Plateau, the Plain of Jars has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the country’s third World Heritage Site after Luang Prabang’s old town and Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape. The listing was approved at the World Heritage Committee’s 43rd session.
Boasting more than 2,000 megalithic stone jars believed to have been used for funeral rites during the Iron Age, the aptly-named Plain of Jars encompasses 80 sites, 11 of which have been officially recognised by UNESCO. Three of the largest sites in Paek district near the provincial capital, Phonsavanh (about 350 kilometres away from the country’s capital of Vientiane and 260 kilometres away from Luang Prabang), are particularly popular with travellers being home to 300, 90 and 150 of the ancient jars.
The Plain of Jars is best visited as part of a multi-day tour. Diethelm Travel Laos’ expert guides will help add another layer of discovery unravelling the region’s mysterious marvels on these unique itineraries:
For even more information, itineraries and customised Laos experiences, contact info@la.diethelmtravel.com.