One of my must see destinations before I leave this earth just got crossed out. I have seen so many pictures and heard so many stories from people – But I finally got a chance to see it myself. Supposedly, there are three main Plain of Jars sites and the most accessible is site one shown below. The other two sites aren’t as accessible because of road conditions and long hilly trails of hiking to the site itself. So, I’ll pass on those two sites :-).
This site was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War – I am amazed that a lot of those jars survived the war. The bomb craters are scatter throughout this site. After 30+ years, the sizes and depth of those craters remained unbelievable large.
I went there in December of 2009, early in the morning when the fog still lingered… it was breathtakingly beautiful and eerie at the same time. I had chills down my spine from standing at such a historical site of myth (how the jars came about) and of human experience (from the bombing). The long drive there was worth it if you can withstand the sharp turns – the green scenery of valleys and mountains was just heavenly, and the legends associated with certain areas were just funny and educational. Seems like you had a good time!
I love the foggy morning there…Things are so peaceful there compare to other big cities in Laos. Although, the town is expanding and construction sites all over. The roads are much better now compared to back in 2009.
I had an awesome time in Xieng Khouang and I’m already looking forward to the next trip back.
You know how we leave a small part of ourselves every we travel to, hence the infamous t-shirts with “I left my heart in …”? Did you leave yours there? 😉
I love Luang Prabang the most in the northern region, though I don’t think I can live there because I still like to have access to big cities’ ammenities.
Yep! I sure did left my heart there :-). I’ve been trying to retrieve it. Laos will always have a special place in my heart.
I bet it would look awesome in photos with the misty morning fog hanging around.
You were indeed lucky to have made the trek to this place.
I wonder if photography makes people travel, from being a ranter to a photo-blogger. 😉
This is one place that I like to visit, on my last trip we had to choose between Xieng Khouang and Luang Prabang and I chose the latter, and well worth it. Next time it will be the Plain of Jars. Is there internet connection at the sight?
Hhhhmmmm… I wonder about that part of being a ranter to photo-blogger also.. I’ve always like traveling and wish I had captured even 10% of what I do now a day.
Let me know if you are heading to Xieng Khouang anytime soon. I might be able to set you up with a personal tour of Melburries Farm :-).
No WiFi or internet connection at the site… But, I think she just using the 3G band.
You need to get the local rate-
Local rate to???? Not sure if I follow here..
Sorry- the flight cost less if you have lao ID.
Not true anymore… They had stop that practice for awhile now. Locals or tourists all pays same price, I traveled with mostly locals and they do not get special treatment.
so mysterious and beautiful.. thanks for sharing!
You are welcome..So many people have studied the sites and yet no one can confirm where it came from.
Hi See. I have been to Xiengkhoung and I love the place. The Plains of Jars is truly mystic. Did you notice some of the hotels and houses used UXOs as fences? You should have visited also the MAD office in the town proper, they have a mini museum showing all sorts of UXO/bombs dropped in the place. many areas, esp near the border aren’t completely cleared yet.
Its also nice to go there during Mhong new year to get photos of women in their nice traditional flowing skirts. There are a lot of areas to go there for taking photos and relaxing but some areas are difficult to access.
Hi Chel, I didn’t get a chance to visit UXO office/museum. Although, few restaurants and coffee shops have all types of UXO metals. I just can’t imagine being there 40 years ago with all those bombs are coming down.
Such a bewildering place. Looking forward to seeing this place soon. Great post and photos seeharhed! 🙂
Sabaidee Padaek, Thanks for stop by and comments. This place hasn’t change since the Vietnam War, other than removing most of unexploded bombs from property. I think the best times to visit this place is early in the morning or late evening.