Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Phonsavan, Laos

Phonsavan is the charming capital city of the Xieng Khouang Province in central Laos and is commonly regarded as a gateway to the Plain of Jars, an enigmatic formation of stone structures resembling jars.

The Plain of Jars is undoubtedly among the premier attractions in Laos; however, if you are traveling to Phonsavan, which translates to ‘Hills of Paradise’ in Lao, it is advisable to allocate several days to explore the area’s attractions. The region offers breathtaking landscapes, opportunities for trekking on the city’s periphery, and visits to waterfalls, caves, and natural pools.

It is essential to note that many of the prominent attractions are situated outside the city, thus necessitating travel time to fully experience them. Within the town, one can observe the day-to-day lives of the residents and even encounter Laotian cowboys tending to cattle in the surrounding fields.

Here are the 15 best activities to pursue in Phonsavan:

1. Visit Mulberries Farm

Mulberries Farm is, rather confusingly, a silk farm where visitors can gain insights into the silk-making process.

The facility guides you through the stages, from the cocoon stage of the silk worms to the final product in the form of exquisite silk scarves.

For those interested in a practical experience, classes are available that teach the art of weaving and dyeing beautiful silk pieces.

2. Travel to the Tham Xang Caves

The Tham Xang Caves are located approximately 36 kilometers from Phonsavan, and visiting them is certainly worthwhile.

The caves are set within a limestone cliff and historically served as a refuge for soldiers during the Secret War era.

Notably, the complex contained facilities such as a hospital and a medical depot.

Currently, guided tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the historical significance and how individuals once lived in these caves.

3. Fish in Nong Tang Lake

Nong Tang Lake is situated roughly 48 kilometers from Phonsavan and is an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts.

This expansive lake, encircled by picturesque limestone cliffs and karst formations, is a favored spot for local families seeking a picnic on weekends.

A small restaurant overlooks the lake, providing dining options, and overnight accommodation is available at lakeside guesthouses.

4. Check out the Navang Craft Center

The Navang Craft Center is renowned in Phonsavan for its stunning wood carvings.

This family-owned establishment produces its items from Fujian Cypress wood, a rare material known for its fragrant aroma. Each piece is expertly handcrafted.

Visitors can observe artisans at work and explore a beautiful collection of souvenirs on display.

5. Visit the UXO Survivors Information Center

The UXO Survivors Information Center addresses the issue of ‘unexploded ordnance,’ including bombs and mines that continue to pose dangers across Laos.

This center features a variety of handicrafts created by UXO survivors and includes exhibitions that narrate experiences of bomb and mine victims.

One particularly poignant area of the center is the reading room, which provides literature about the Secret War and its ongoing impact on local communities.

Purchasing handicrafts or making a donation ensures that a substantial portion of the proceeds directly supports UXO survivors and their treatment.

6. Shop at the Fresh Food Market

For visitors seeking local cuisine in Phonsavan, the Fresh Food Market is an ideal choice.

Here, you will discover an assortment of local fruits and vegetables, including many varieties unique to the region, such as Chinese pears, making it a noteworthy stop for those in the area.

The market also offers unusual items, such as swallows and wild mushrooms, which may not appeal to everyone, but certainly present a distinctive aspect of Laotian culture.

7. Visit the Old Cemetery

The Old Cemetery is notable in Phonsavan for its collection of diverse religious relics.

The site features Tai Dam animist tombs alongside traditional Catholic gravestones, providing an intriguing exploration opportunity during your afternoon visit.

Chinese graves and Lao Buddhist structures can also be found here, all situated on a hillside that overlooks the town.

8. Shop at the Hmong Crafts Center

Laos is home to various ethnic communities, including the Hmong people.

If you wish to understand more about this unique group, a visit to the Hmong Crafts Center is recommended, where you can find authentic handicrafts that make excellent souvenirs or gifts.

Additionally, there is a massage parlor available for relaxation following your shopping experience.

9. Hike to the Tad Ka Waterfall

The Tad Ka Waterfall is situated in Tajok, approximately 32 kilometers from Phonsavan’s center.

The allure of this destination lies in the stepped design of the waterfall, with water cascading over multiple levels before plunging into pools below.

To access the waterfall, visitors must trek through dense jungle, and many local operators offer tours that typically include a delightful picnic lunch by the enchanting cascades.

10. Eat some Indian food

Travelers to Laos may find it surprising that almost every town and city features at least one Indian restaurant.

This is largely due to the significant Indian community in Laos, allowing you to savor dishes such as curries and flatbreads throughout the country.

One of the premier locations for indulging in Indian cuisine in Phonsavan is Nisha, known for its delicious offerings like tikka masala and a wide variety of vegetarian curries.

11. Walk around the War Memorials

Phonsavan is well-known for its war memorials, which were erected to commemorate the sacrifices of thousands of Pathet Lao soldiers during the Indochina Wars.

As you explore the town, you will encounter these memorials dispersed throughout, serving as a poignant tribute to both the Lao and Vietnamese troops who lost their lives during this tumultuous period.

Many memorials are strategically located on hillsides, offering panoramic views of the town as well.

12. Soak in the Hot Springs

The Hot Springs, located at Baw Nyai, lie about 67 kilometers from Phonsavan and provide an excellent opportunity to unwind in hot tubs while surrounded by lush jungle.

A scenic trek leads to the hot spring source, and overnight accommodations are also available in bungalows with direct access to the famed bathing pools of this region.

13. Visit the UXO Information Center (MAG)

Two UXO Information Centers exist in Phonsavan, located in close proximity to one another.

This center, managed by the British Mines Advisory Group (MAG), explores the ongoing issue of unexploded bombs and mines that litter portions of Laos.

Visitors can engage with galleries that detail the impact of bombings on the area, and view safely defused UXO artifacts.

The center operates on donations and plays an active role in clearing unexploded ordnance in the region, making it a meaningful visit for those interested in supporting the local community.

14. Visit a local bar

The bars in Phonsavan tend to possess a rustic charm rather than upscale decor; nevertheless, they offer an authentic window into Laotian life.

One of the most popular bars in town is Barview, which features a small cafe with stunning views of the lush jade-green rice fields below.

The establishment serves traditional bar snacks such as barbecued meats, complemented by an ample selection of local, ice-cold beer.

15. Travel on to the Plain of Jars

The primary allure of Phonsavan is the opportunity to explore the Plain of Jars, which can be included in a day excursion, although it is wise to plan accordingly.

Numerous tour operators in Phonsavan can facilitate trips to the jars, and finding accommodations in the vicinity can be challenging, necessitating thorough planning.

The Plain of Jars refers to a megalithic landscape in central Laos, where thousands of stone jars can be discovered across the valleys and hills.

Amazingly, the origins of these jars remain elusive, and the area has faced extensive bombing; nevertheless, it is considered one of the most picturesque locations in Laos and presents an intriguing archaeological enigma.