Where Is Xieng Khouang Located?
Situated approximately 380 km northeast of Vientiane, Xieng Khouang is a highland province perched at over 1,200 meters above sea level. Its cool climate and lush landscapes make it a welcome escape from the hotter regions of Laos.
Once devastated by war, the region has transformed into a peaceful and welcoming destination. The Plain of Jars’ designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has revived tourism and interest in the area.
Best Time to Visit Xieng Khouang
Ideal Season: November to February
The cool, dry months are perfect for sightseeing. Mornings and evenings can get chilly—pack a warm jacket.
Avoid: June to October
The monsoon season brings heavy rain, especially in July and August, making some roads impassable.
Top Things to Do and See in Xieng Khouang
🏺 1. The Plain of Jars – Laos’s Greatest Archaeological Mystery
Scattered across more than 1,000 square kilometers, the Plain of Jars features over 2,100 ancient stone jars. Carved from sandstone, granite, and limestone, their purpose remains unknown—burial urns? Storage containers?
Key Sites:
- Site 1: 334 jars, including the largest examples
- Site 2: 93 jars and rare carved lids
- Site 3: 150 jars in a scenic rice field
French archaeologist Madeleine Colani‘s 1930s excavations unearthed bones and burial items, supporting the theory of a funerary function.
Muang Khoun – The War-Scarred Former Capital
Once the royal capital, Muang Khoun was nearly destroyed during the Second Indochina War. Today, it’s home to haunting yet beautiful remnants:
- Wat Phia (built in 744 CE): Only a seated Buddha remains, surrounded by ruins
- That Foun Stupa: Said to house relics of the Buddha from India
- Ban Phai Village: Known for rare granite jars and skilled local craftsmen
Tad Kha and Tad Lang Waterfalls
Escape into nature with these beautiful falls:
- Tad Kha: A 100-meter cascade framed by limestone cliffs
- Tad Lang: Towering at 130 meters, close to Site 3 of the Plain of Jars
Both offer scenic hiking trails and swimming spots.
Tham Piu and Tham Pha Caves
- Tham Piu Cave: A war memorial marking the site where 374 civilians were killed in a 1968 bombing
- Tham Pha Cave: A peaceful cave near Nong Tang Lake, known for its sacred Buddha images and spiritual atmosphere
Hmong New Year Festival – A Cultural Highlight
Held in late November or early December, this festival celebrates the Hmong harvest with vibrant traditions:
- Colorful costumes and handmade jewelry
- Traditional dances and bullfighting
- Ball-tossing courtship rituals, where young people seek partners
Mulberries Organic Silk Farm
Founded in 1993, this eco-conscious farm supports sustainable silk production and community development.
Visitors can:
- Tour mulberry orchards
- Learn about natural dyes and traditional silk weaving
- Buy fair-trade, handmade textiles that support local women
Suggested 4-Day Itinerary: Xieng Khouang and Beyond
Day 1: Vientiane → Xieng Khouang
- Fly into Phonsavan
- Visit Plain of Jars Sites 1–3
- Explore Muang Khoun
- Overnight stay in Xieng Khouang
Day 2: Xieng Khouang → Luang Prabang
- Morning market in Phonsavan
- Scenic drive through hill tribe villages
- Visit Luang Prabang temples (Wat Visoun, Wat Aham, Wat Mai)
- Explore the night market
Day 3: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Caves
- Mekong River boat trip to Pak Ou Caves
- Stop at Ban Muangkeo for local whisky
- Climb Mount Phousi for sunset views
- Evening stroll through the night market
Day 4: Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Falls
- Visit the Royal Palace Museum
- Day trip to Kuang Si Waterfalls
- Picnic and swim in turquoise pools
- Optional visits to Hmong and Khmu villages
- Return to Luang Prabang
Practical Travel Tips
- Best Season: November to March (dry season)
- Currency: Bring cash (Lao Kip or USD); cards often not accepted
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting temples
- Local Transport: Use tuk-tuks or shared minivans for short trips
- Safety Tip: Stay on marked paths due to potential unexploded ordnance in rural areas
Conclusion: Why Xieng Khouang Deserves a Spot on Your Laos Itinerary
With its mysterious megalithic jars, poignant war history, breathtaking waterfalls, and vibrant Hmong culture, Xieng Khouang is much more than a stopover—it’s a deeply enriching part of Laos. Whether you’re a history buff, cultural explorer, or curious traveler, this highland province promises stories you won’t soon forget.
