English
French
Spanish
ItalianXieng Khouang
Xieng Khouang is a province of Laos, about 435km southwest of the capital Vientiane (Lao People's Democratic Republic), there is a vast plateau with a cool climate and numerous famous landscapes. This is Xieng Khouang province, situated at an elevation of 1,200m above sea level, bordering Vietnam's Nghe An province. The region boasts diverse terrain and scenery, including hot springs, forests, stunning waterfalls, and impressive historical sites. Xieng Khouang is home to the Plain of Jars, the prehistoric stone megaliths that attract thousands of tourists annually. (The Lao government is currently finalising an application for the World Heritage Committee to consider listing the Plain of Jars as a World Heritage Monument). The area is of significant archaeological importance on account also of the standing stones in nearby Houaphanh Province.
In the 13th century, the Tai Phuan began migrating from China to north-eastern Laos, establishing a principality called Muang Phuan, with its capital in present-day Khoun Town. Muang Phuan thrived as a trading centre, and by the mid-14th century, it had become a Lane Xang Kingdom protectorate under King Fa Ngum. Muang Phuan later became a centre for Buddhist art and distinctive temple construction. According to French historian Paul Le Boulanger, the "opulence of the 62 pagodas and their stupas, of which the flanks concealed treasures, obtained the capital a fame that spread fear wide and far." After World War II, the French lost control, and the subsequent Indochina War saw Xieng Khouang as Ground Zero for intensive US bombardment from 1964 to 1973, which destroyed most of Khoun Town. Consequently, the capital was moved to nearby Phonsavanh.
Plain of Jars - Xieng Khouang
General weather in Xieng Khouang
The weather in Xieng Khouang is influenced by its elevation. It experiences a tropical monsoon climate.
Muang Khoun
- Wet season (May-October): Xieng Khouang's wet season, lasting from May to October, is characterized by frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. During this period, the landscape becomes lush and green, but outdoor activities may be affected by muddy conditions. Daytime temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). While the wet season offers vibrant flora and fauna, visitors should be prepared for increased humidity and occasional rain showers.
- Dry season (November - April): The dry season in Xieng Khouang is characterized by low rainfall, colder temperatures (20°C to 30°C), and clear skies. This time of year is ideal for outdoor activities due to it provides pleasant weather for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring. The environment is crisp and arid, making it an excellent time to visit historical monuments and admire the region's natural beauty.
Best season to go
The best time to visit Xieng Khouang is from November to February. It is the cool season in Laos when the weather gets cooler. You should bring along warm clothes as you travel to Laos at this time as Xieng Khouang is the highland plain. It will become mild and chilly in the early morning and late night.
Getting to Xieng Khouang is easy with choices such as domestic flights to Xieng Khouang Airport or long-distance busses from major cities, which provide access to this northern Laotian province. Minivans and private automobiles provide convenience for people who want a speedier and more personalized travel experience. When you arrive in Xieng Khouang, you can take tuk-tuks, and songthaews, or rent bikes or motorbikes for short-distance exploring. Key destinations, such as the Plain of Jars, offer guided tours that provide insights into the region's rich history as well as ongoing initiatives, such as UXO clearance at the MAG Center. Visitors can also walk to historic landmarks, and ethnic communities such as Ban Napia, and enjoy the peaceful climate of Phonsavan. To make the most of the journey, it's essential to plan based on specific attractions, consider weather conditions, book accommodations in advance, and approach interactions with local communities respectfully. Visiting Xieng Khouang offers a diverse and engaging experience for visitors looking for a combination of historical, cultural, and natural beauties in this one-of-a-kind Laotian province.
Read more at: Laos Tours 7 days