Plain of Jars
The Valley of Jars, a large hilly plateau in northeastern Laos, is named for the mystical stone jars that stand here in several places. Others are scattered across the plains and surrounding hills. At Site 1 – Thong Khai Hin – there are 250 jugs weighing from 600 kg to 1 ton, and the largest jug in the valley weighs 6 tons. Some of them have stone lids.
General information
There are many different theories to explain the origin and purpose of these jugs, but they remain a mystery. Dating them is very difficult, although archaeologists have concluded that these “utensils” are about 2,000 years old.
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Although these sites are of great interest to archaeologists and have been known for many decades, the Indonesian wars have hindered research. As the area is the flattest place in Northern Laos, there has been virtually non-stop fighting over the jug valley and it was bombed by the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. According to local legend, the jugs were made to age rice wine, which was supposed to be drunk to celebrate victory over a cruel leader – even this legend reflects the history of this strife-torn area.
.Tourists are primarily attracted to the jugs, but this is a lovely area with grassy meadows and magnificent rolling hills of brown and purple. Here villages are being rebuilt, fruit trees are being planted, and rice is being cultivated.
Warning
Only three pitcher sites are open and considered safe, other areas are at risk of being blown up by landmines left here after the war, so never stray off the paths.
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