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Xieng Khuang Province

Travel Guide Asia Laos Xieng Khuang Province

Introduction

Phonsavanh, Xieng Khuoang Province

Xieng Khuang Province is probably best known for being the most heavily bombed province in Laos. The campaign, which ran from 1964 and 1973 has left scars across the landscape and continues to affect the province's people. UXO (unexploded ordanance) is still a huge problem, so it's not a good idea to stary off the well-worn paths.

However, it's not all doom and gloom, as more and more tourists filter in to the area to visit the enigmatic Plain of Jars, although several other interesting war sites are now open to tourists.

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Geography

Xieng Khuang is home to the highest mountains in Laos, as well as deciduous woodlands, pine forests, sweeping grasslands and rolling hills. There are also plenty of caves to explore as well as numerous lakes, waterfalls and hot springs.

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Cities

Phonsavan - access point to the Plain of Jars

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Sights and Activities

Plain of Jars
Visiting fresh local food markets
Exploring the many caves
Walking tours

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Events and Festivals

Same as those celebrated nationally.

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Weather

Cooler than the rest of the country, particularly up in the mountains. Temeratures can drop below freezing during the night in the cool season (November - January).

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Getting There

By Plane

Fly with Lao Airlines into Xiang Khouang Airport from Vientianne.

By Car

By Bus

There are public buses from Vang Vieng and Vientiane to Phonsovan.

By Boat

Boats to Nong Khiaw leave regularly with the latest departing in the early afternoon.

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Getting Around

By Plane

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

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Eat

There are plenty of places to eat in Phonsavan, the provinces capital, but outside you'll be hard pushed to find many tourist-oriented restaurants.

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Drink

Again, there are a few bars in Phonsovan, but the further you are from the capital the less likely you are to find m/any tourist haunts.

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Sleep

There are plenty of hotels and guest houses in Phonsovan and enough guest houses and homestays outside the capital to satisfy the more adventerious traveller.