Location: A northeastern province sharing a border with Vietnam
Natural Protected Areas: none
Proposed World Heritage Site: Plain of Jars (nomination dossier under preparation)
Ethnic Groups: Hmong, Tai Puan, Khamu, Tai Dam
Ecotourism Attractions: Xieng Khouang is best known for the Plain of Jars, hundreds of
giant stone megaliths from 1 – 3 meters tall scattered throughout the province in groups
of up to 300 jars. Local legend states that the jars were used to make an alcoholic brew
to celebrate the victorious military campaign of an ancient king, but archaeological
evidence suggests that the jars were associated with funerary practices of a Bronze Age
people that inhabited the area around 2,000 – 2,500 years ago.
The area is also know for the
intense aerial bombardmen it suffered during the Indochina War, and several bomb craters and war scrap are still visible today. It is recommended that you visit the jars with
the assistance of a local guide.
