Things to do in Xieng Khouang
Discover the best attractions and experiences Xieng Khouang has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient and historically significant sites that shaped Xiangkhoang's story.
Plain of Jars – Site 1
A renowned cluster of stone jars scattered across a plain with easy trails and interpretive signs.
Plain of Jars – Site 2
Another jar field offering expansive views and a quiet, reflective atmosphere.
Plain of Jars – Site 3
A third cluster with similar surroundings and opportunities to explore on foot.
Museums
Learn about the province’s past and present through local artifacts and personal stories.
COPE Visitor Centre
A moving exhibit on UXO impact, clearance work, and survivor testimonies.
Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum
Artifacts and displays detailing provincial history, culture, and wartime memory.
Religious Monuments
Reflect at the province’s Buddhist temples and sacred sites.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Xieng Khouang. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Xieng Khouang is known for its plains and scenic landscapes rather than large parks.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Xieng Khouang. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Explore the main hubs and surrounding areas that frame the province.
Muang Khoun
A historic village near Phonsavanh with ancient temples and poignant wartime ruins.
Phonsavanh Town Center
The provincial capital’s hub for markets, eateries and gateway to the Plain of Jars.
Free Things to Do
Simple, no-cost experiences to enjoy the landscape and local life.
Walk the Plain of Jars sites
Free to wander the jar fields and soak in the quiet, pastoral scenery.
Stroll Phonsavanh Market
Explore stalls for local produce, crafts, and snacks.
Sunrise or sunset at the plains
Find a vantage point to watch golden light illuminate the jar fields.
Gastronomy
Taste the hearty flavors of northern Laos with simple, comforting dishes.
Or Lam
A rich northern Lao stew with meat, potatoes, greens and fragrant herbs.
Laap (Larb)
Citrusy minced-meat salad spiked with herbs and toasted rice powder.
Tam Mak Hoong (Green Papaya Salad)
Vibrant shredded papaya with chilies, lime, and peanuts for a fresh bite.
Nightlife
Relaxed evenings with local flavors, music and conversation.
Phonsavanh Night Market
Evening stalls offering snacks, crafts and local bustle.
Riverside cafes
Casual spots along the streets for sunset drinks and chats.
Guesthouse social evenings
Low-key gathering spaces where travelers swap stories over tea.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and community programs bring Lao hospitality to life.
Traditional Lao dance performances
Occasional shows featuring music, dance and local costumes.
Cultural Center programs
Community events highlighting Lao crafts, songs and storytelling.
Film screenings at local venues
Small-scale cinema or community events with Lao or regional films.
Sports
Outdoor activity options amidst plains and hills.
Hiking near Phonsavanh plateau
Gentle hikes with views over jar fields and countryside.
Cycling tours around the Plain of Jars
Easy routes through villages and jar fields.
Birdwatching in rural Xiangkhoang
Seasonal wetlands offer chances to spot local birds.
Off the Track
Tread a little further for a deeper sense of Xiang Khouang life.
Visit Muang Khoun beyond the main trails
Explore the historic outskirts and bomb-scarred landscapes at a slower pace.
UXO-informed village visit
Meet local guides, learn about safety and resilience in the countryside.
Remote jar-site excursion
Take a guided drive to lesser-visited jars away from the crowds.