Things To Do
in Phônsavan
Phônsavan is a town located in northeastern Laos, known for its unique history and attractions. It is a gateway to the mysterious Plain of Jars, with thousands of ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape. The town also offers visitors a chance to learn about the region's tragic history through its many bomb craters and war remnants from the Vietnam War era.
Phônsavan is a peaceful and scenic destination, popular among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures in Laos.
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khawp chai" - Thank you
- "Sala baai" - How are you?
- "Noy noy" - A little
- "Baw" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plain of Jars, a historical site with mysterious stone jars scattered across the landscape. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
Explore the nearby villages to learn about local crafts and traditional lifestyles. Don’t forget to try some local snacks and interact with the warm local community.
Relax at a local eatery, savoring traditional Lao cuisine as the sun sets. Take a leisurely walk around Phônsavan town to admire the evening lights.
Visit the UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) Visitor Centre to understand the impacts of war in the area and the efforts for clearance. This insightful visit will provide a deeper appreciation of Laos's history.
Make your way to the local market to shop for handicrafts and sample delicious street food. Engage with the vendors and learn about their products.
Head to a quiet café for some tea or coffee while reflecting on your day's adventures. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and perhaps chat with other travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, especially related to the Plain of Jars.
- Stunning natural landscapes and mountainous terrain.
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.
- Opportunity to learn about diverse ethnic cultures and traditions.
- Potential for adventure activities such as trekking and cycling.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to road conditions.
- Language barrier as English may not be widely spoken.
- Basic healthcare facilities may not meet all needs.
- Potential safety concerns related to unexploded ordnance from past conflicts.
Best Activities in Phônsavan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the ancient and mysterious Plain of Jars, a unique archaeological site with thousands of stone jars scattered across the landscape.
Explore the surrounding countryside and jungles with guided trekking tours to discover stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and local wildlife.
Embark on cycling tours around Phonsavan to visit local villages, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy the picturesque rural scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Phônsavan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Phônsavan
Visit one of these nice places.
A collection of ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape, offering a unique and picturesque setting for photography
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the opportunity to learn about the important work of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) in clearing unexploded ordnance
Food in Phônsavan
Phônsavan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat, herbs, and fish sauce, often served with sticky rice. It is a must-try dish, and you can find excellent Laap at the Phônsavan Night Market.
Must-Try!
A spicy Lao noodle soup made with rice vermicelli, flavored with herbs, and served with a variety of fresh vegetables and your choice of protein. Look for Khao Poon at street food stalls or local eateries for an authentic taste.
A savory stew prepared with mixed vegetables, herbs, and either pork, chicken, or fish, giving it a rich and distinctive flavor. Visit traditional Lao restaurants in Phônsavan for an authentic serving of Or Lam.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of street food options, local snacks, and freshly cooked dishes. The market is an excellent place to sample local flavors and experience the vibrant food culture of Phônsavan.
Explore Dongpan Market to discover a variety of fresh produce, local ingredients, and street food stalls. It's a great spot to immerse in the local food scene and try out different Lao delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Phônsavan, it is important to show reverence and deference to older individuals, as age is highly respected in Lao culture.
When visiting temples or rural areas, it's recommended to dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for local customs and traditions.
Greeting with the traditional 'Nop' (a wai) and a smile is considered polite and respectful in Lao culture.
Safety
Tipping in Phônsavan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Phônsavan, Laos. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Phônsavan, Laos. Some establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have local currency on hand. Mobile payment apps are not commonly used in the area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with cooler temperatures and clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect hot and dry weather, with temperatures reaching over 30°C. Not ideal for outdoor activities, but good for exploring indoor attractions.
Expect heavy rains and high humidity. May not be the best time to visit due to muddy roads, but the countryside becomes lush and green.
Phônsavan at Night
Hiking in Phônsavan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountainous area near Phônsavan offering beautiful views and various trails for hiking, with lush forests and wildlife.
Famous archaeological site that can also be explored by hiking. The area has several trails with scenic views of the jars and surrounding countryside.
A popular hiking destination with challenging trails leading to stunning panoramic views; known for its diverse flora and fauna.
This region not only offers historical sites but also various hiking paths that explore the natural beauty and rural landscapes.
A larger hiking area located a bit further away, featuring extensive trails through dense forests and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Aiports
How to reach Phônsavan by plane.
Located in Vientiane, approximately 350 km from Phônsavan, it is the main international airport serving Laos.
Situated in Luang Prabang, about 400 km from Phônsavan, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Savannakhet, approximately 600 km from Phônsavan, it facilitates international travel primarily to neighboring countries.
Found in Pakse, around 700 km from Phônsavan, this is another major airport that connects Laos with international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Phônsavan, they predominantly speak the Lao language and have cultural ties to the central lowland areas of Laos.
An indigenous hill tribe known for their distinct cultural practices and language, they represent a significant portion of the population in the region.
Another indigenous group, the Khmu are known for their agricultural skills and traditional practices, contributing to the cultural diversity of Phônsavan.
This ethnic group is known for their unique customs and traditions, often associated with wet rice farming.
Referring to various highland ethnic groups, they are farmers and craftspeople known for their rich traditions and languages, although they are less populous.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Phônsavan, commonly played in local communities and schools.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball but using feet, head, knees, and chest to hit a rattan ball over a net.
Badminton is widely played recreationally and competitively, with many local clubs and tournaments.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among younger generations, with courts available in various neighborhoods.
A cultural sport that involves grappling techniques, often performed during local festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phônsavan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Lao cuisine prominently features meat, many local eateries and restaurants in Phônsavan offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. When dining out, look for options like stir-fried morning glory, tofu-based dishes, and vegetable soups.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dining choices in Phônsavan. Dishes like fresh spring rolls, grilled meats, and rice-based noodles are typically gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.