A huge archaeological complex littered with stone jars sized from 70cm up to 3 or 4 metres, the true origin of the jars remains a mystery. On this journey, guests will be able to formulate first-hand theories on the nature of their origin as well as exploring the area’s fascinating – if often tragic – history as a target for US bombs during the Vietnam War.
Itinerary
📍 Phonsavan Airport – Phonsavan (3 km): 5 min
Welcome to Xieng Khuang. Locally known as “Phonsavan,” the town acts as the gateway to the Plain of Jars.
Upon arrival to Xieng Khuang, our guide and driver will be waiting to provide transport to the hotel for check in.
After checking into the hotel, take a brief city tour and pay a visit to the MAG Center in town. MAG is a humanitarian organization dedicated to clearing the remnants of conflict for the benefit of local communities worldwide. Laos is the most heavily bombed nation in the world (per capita).
Free entry, open everyday from 08:00–20:00.
Overnight in Xieng Khouang
Inclusions:
📍 Phonsavan – Plain of Jars (16 km): 20/30 min Phonsavan – Muang Khoun (40 km): 45 min
In the morning, journey through Phonsavan to the Plain of Jars.
The Plain of Jars is a huge archaeological complex filled with 2500-year-old stone jars sized from 70cm up to four meters. While archaeologists have their hypotheses, the true origin of the jars remains a mystery.
The trip includes visits to the three major sites. Begin at Site 1, the closest site to the town and the largest, before visiting Site 2 at Hai Hin on Phou Salator. The tour ends at Site 3 in Hai Hin Lat Khai, which is the most impressive site with over 150 jars. Nearby the site, pay a visit to Ban Xiengdi, where there is a small monastery known for its Buddha images. On the journey back, take note of the bomb craters that still scar the face of the land today.
Attention: The Plain of Jars was heavily bombed during the war; it is imperative to respect all signage and to stay along the defined trails due to bombs, UXO and landmines.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Phonsavan.
In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day trip to Muang Khoun. Muang Khoun is home to a unique sitting giant Buddha as well of some old pagodas that remain in ruins. The foundation and columns of Wat Phia Wat are still standing as is the 30-meter stupa constructed in the Lan Xang/Lanna period.
Then return to Xieng Khuang.
Overnight in Xieng Khouang
Inclusions:
☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch
📍 Phonsavan – Phonsavan Airport (3 km): 5 min
After breakfast, enjoy free time at leisure until transport is provided to the airport for the onward flight.
Inclusions:
☕ Breakfast
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Nick Ghosh
Global Director of SalesEXO Sales Team
Having spent much of his childhood between Southeast Asia and the UK, Nick has the passion and destination knowledge of a true local. After teaching English at Shanghai University in 2006, Nick returned to the UK to work for a top tour operator for ten years. Serving as a Southeast Asia Product Manager prior to joining EXO, Nick became our UK Sales Director in 2016 and since August 2018 our Global Sales Director based in the UK.
Lucas Arruda
Sales Manager, Latin AmericaEXO Sales Team
Hailing from Brazil, Lucas leverages a deep well of professional experience, destination knowledge and love of travel to his role as Sales Manager for Latin America. He initially joined EXO in our China offices, gaining a strong understanding of EXO services and products, which he brings to this new role.
Sophie Rowley
Sales Manager UK & IrelandEXO Sales Team
Sophie's passion for travel began when she was young, joining her parents for trips abroad. Captivated by the allure of new destinations and diverse cultures, she went on to pursue a degree in International Tourism and Hospitality Management. After a decade working for a renowned UK travel agent, she transitioned to her role as EXO’s Sales Manager for the UK & Ireland.
Pantanida Jantsakool Pitz
General Manager German MarketEXO Sales Team
Born in Bangkok, Pantanida began her career in the travel industry in the early 2000's. After travelling around Southeast Asia for a period of time, she moved to Ho Chi Minh City to help start up the German department for EXO Travel. She has been based in Germany since 2008, where she looks after our German-speaking clients.
Amanda Pilar
Sales Director - North AmericaEXO Sales Team
Amanda is a graduate in Hospitality and Tourism Management and calls Boston home. She first fell in love with Asia in 2012 then worked as a travel specialist creating bespoke luxury journeys to Asia for a leading US tour operator. Her passion to bring unforgettable travel experiences for all clients ensures she brings the best in terms of support for our trade partners in North America.
Kate Winslow
Sales Manager, North AmericaEXO Sales Team
Kate joined EXO Travel in 2023 as North American Sales Manager. With a history of extensive travel in Asia and a proven track record as a Virtuoso advisor, she enriches the travel planning process and promotes EXO's diverse destinations with a fresh perspective. Her passion for unique journeys is a boon for both EXO and our partners.
Nadine Jones
Sales Manager Australia and New ZealandEXO Sales Team
As a former Olympic-qualifying athlete and lifelong travel industry professional, Nadine combines a wealth of experience with a competitive mindset to deliver top shelf services to our partners in Australia and New Zealand.
Alice Lefebvre
Sales Manager - FranceEXO Sales Team
Alice caught the travel bug early, accompanying her parents on cultural and architectural trips as a young child. She went on to study tourism and work for a well-known tour operator before taking a solo trip across three continents. In 2017, Alice joined EXO Malaysia as Inbound & Product Manager and, in 2023, returned to Paris as Sales Manager to support EXO's partners in the French-speaking market.