This area of Xieng Khouang province is named after the mysterious antique stone jars scattered across its countryside.

 

There are more than 400 sites across the whole Plain of Jars which centers on the area of Xieng Khouang. They range from Khorat Plateau in Thailand in the south, through Laos and to the North Cachar Hills in Northern India. The jars appear to be laid in a linear path that was probably a trade route, but their real nature is still shrouded in mystery…
The jars are made of sedimentary rock, usually sandstone, but also granite, conglomerate or calcified coral. They are angular or round and some have disks that could be lids. They can weigh up to 13 tons and range from one to three metres (3 to 10 feet) in height. If visiting the area you must take care to never stray from marked paths, as the region has not yet be cleared of all unexploded ordinance [UXO] dating back to the secret war in Laos.