Phonsavan is known for being a lively and vibrant town, with local people always offering an extensive, warm welcome to visitors. It is a young town which was only erected in the 1970s and is also the recently named capital of Laos‘ Xieng Khouang Province.
The town is modern in comparison to other places in Laos yet still similar to other Laotian towns with its villages and pretty scenery that surround it. Slightly dusty and sandy, the roads are fairly even and not too bumpy, with the buildings nicely constructed with a Red Cross center offering information to tourists.
Hill tribes and small villages encompass the area and the landscape provides some great hiking trails. Phonsavan is most famous for its nearby Plain of Jars, also known as Thong Hay Hin, which is a collection of mysterious big stone jars with largely debated origins.
The scenery in Phonsavan is unique to the area, with lush grassy hills and forests filled with pine trees making it a stark contrast to the more common mountainous landscapes found in Laos. The only downside to Phonsavan is that it is still plagued with unexploded ordinance so choosing a good guide is essential for your safety in the area.
Getting There & Away
The main entry point to Phonsavan is through its small airport, with sleepy immigration officers on hand to welcome every tourist into the region. If you are already in the country, then buses run from the station in the heart of the town to many popular towns and cities but the roads to Sam Neua (8 to 10 hours) and Vientiane (11 hours) are the most comfortable and frequently used routes.
Things to Do
Phonsavan Attractions
- Plain of Jars
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By far the main draw for visitors to the area, the mysterious stone jars and boulders are shrouded in ambiguity as to how or why they appeared.
- Muang Kham
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This neighboring town has a fascinating selection of hot springs that offer its visitors an amazing experience in the natural, bubbly jacuzzis.
- Hmong Market
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Held on sundays behind the post office, this market is well worth a visit.
- Tham Piew
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The caves make for an interesting couple of hours and great photo opportunities.
- Laos War Memorial
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Located on a hill top, the memorial pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the war and as well as being an attractive stupa with a sweeping view of phonsavan, it also contains the remains of over 4,500 laotians who died in the poignant war.