Plain of Jars

Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars is a fascinating archaeological site, named for the thousands of scattered stone jars found across the plain and the low hills of the highland valleys. These stone jars date back to the Iron Age (circa 500 BC to 500 AD). Some are clustered together, while others stand alone, making this one of the most important sites for studying the prehistoric cultural life of humans in Southeast Asia.

The Plain of Jars is located on the Xiangkhouang Plateau, at the northern end of the Annamite Range — the most significant mountain range in Indochina. It is said that “Xiengkhouang” is the collective name for these thousands of mysterious stone jars. There are 90 jar sites within Xieng Khouang Province, each containing between 1 to 400 jars. The jars vary in height and circumference from 1 to 3 meters. Except for those at Site 1, none of the jars feature carvings. The carvings on the jars at Site 1 include some prehistoric depictions of figures — people with arms raised and knees bent, as if taking part in a ritual, likely representing customs from 500 BC to 200 AD. There are also carvings resembling China’s Huashan Mountain, rendered with striking realism.

Initial research into the stone jars of the Plain of Jars began in the early 1930s. Studies suggest that the jars are related to prehistoric funeral rituals. This theory has been supported by excavations carried out by Lao and Japanese archaeologists, who have uncovered human remains, burial goods, and pottery near the jars. However, there is also an alternative explanation that the jars were used to collect rainwater for travelers on long journeys.

Plain of Jars

Must-visit reason: One of the most important sites for studying the prehistoric cultural life of humans in Southeast Asia

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Laos[Laos]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Xieng Khouang Province [Xieng Khouang Province]