Things To Do
in Xiangkhoang
Xiangkhoang Province sits high in central Laos, known for its limestone karst landscapes. The star attraction is the Plain of Jars, where thousands of ancient stone jars dot dry valleys and rolling fields. Rural villages, hill tribes, and slow-moving rivers give the region a serene, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
Travel here rewards curiosity with cultural exchanges and dramatic scenery away from the crowds of Luang Prabang or Vientiane.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the mysterious Plain of Jars, where ancient stone jars dot the landscape. After exploring the site, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional Lao breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling dishes like sticky rice and fresh fruit.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the history of the Plain of Jars by visiting the nearby museum that showcases artifacts and provides insight into the significance of the jars. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you wander through the peaceful countryside, perhaps spotting local wildlife along the way. Conclude your afternoon with a refreshing drink at a local café, soaking in the rural charm of Xiangkhoang.
As the sun sets, head back to the town center for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Lao cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of local life. Wrap up your evening by visiting a night market, browsing handmade crafts and sampling local snacks.
Start your day with a guided tour to nearby ethnic minority villages, where you can learn about the unique cultures and traditions of the local people. Engage with the villagers, observe their daily activities, and perhaps even participate in traditional crafts like weaving or pottery. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local home, featuring fresh produce and traditional dishes.
In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration by attending a cooking class that teaches you how to prepare classic Lao dishes. Visit a local market to gather fresh ingredients, and then return to the village to cook with a knowledgeable local chef. Share your meal with your hosts, savoring the flavors of Laos while building connections with the community.
In the evening, return to the town and find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring the dishes you've learned to cook. Reflect on your day's experiences while enjoying the delicious food and local ambiance. If available, look for traditional dance performances or music events in the area to cap off a culturally enriching day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-3 |
| 🧺Laundry service | $2-4 |
| 🎟️Attraction entrance/market fees | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich archaeological and cultural experiences with a peaceful pace
- Lower crowds and authentic Lao experiences
- Limited infrastructure and fewer luxury options
- Fewer Western-style amenities and longer travel times
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khop chai" - Thank you
- "Ao pass Lao mai?" - Do you speak Lao?
Places to Visit in Xiangkhoang
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient jar fields set against rolling farmland and limestone hills; ideal at sunrise or sunset for soft light.
Historic temples and banyan trees in a peaceful highland setting; great for atmospheric compositions.
Hilltop overlooks and roadside vistas that frame the plains and distant jar fields.
Food in Xiangkhoang
Xiangkhoang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant Lao herb-stew with meat (often buffalo or pork), eggplant, and greens.
Must-Try!
A zesty minced-meat salad with lime, mint, and chili, traditionally served with sticky rice.
Thick, comforting chicken noodle soup made with a homemade broth.
Steamed sticky rice served with various chili dips and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main town market offering Lao staples, grilled meats, fresh produce, and snacks.
Local stalls along the main road offering sticky rice, grilled fish, and spicy dips after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite wai or a nod; show respect to elders and monks.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially villagers or inside homes.
Avoid touching anyone on the head; do not point feet at people or sacred spaces.
Remove shoes when entering homes or temples.
Safety
Tipping in Xiangkhoang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not expected; round up at meals or leave small tips for guides and staff.
Cash is widely used; Lao kip and USD are commonly accepted in towns. Credit cards are rare outside larger lodges; ATMs exist in Phonsavanh but may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with high humidity; carry water, use sunscreen, and seek shade during peak heat.
Daily showers and possible flooding in low-lying areas; plan flexible outdoor time and carry a light rain jacket.
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; perfect for treks and photography.
Xiangkhoang at Night
Hiking in Xiangkhoang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hills offering viewpoints of jar fields, farmland, and distant limestone outcrops.
Airports
How to reach Xiangkhoang by plane.
Phonsavanh airport serving the province; operates domestic flights to Vientiane and Luang Prabang when available.
Main international gateway in Vientiane; connect to Lao domestic flights to XKH.
Regional hub with connections to Lao provinces; convenient for travelers heading toward Xiangkhoang from the north.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Lao majority with minority communities including Hmong, Khmu, Tai Dam, and other hill tribes present in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Laos; played in schools and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xiangkhoang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lao dishes are vegetable-forward. Look for vegetable curries or stir-fries and request no fish sauce; ask for tofu or mushrooms as protein where available.