Phonsavan in present-day provincial capital of Xieng Khouang Province. It was established fairly recently, after the former capital, was virtually wiped out during the Vietnam War. You can well imagine the intensity of bombings that was carried out here. The town of that former capital has since been rebuilt, and is now renamed Muang Khun.
Phonsavan has a population of 60,000 and is rapidly expanding. As it is located in close proximity to the Plain of Jars, it is becoming a convenient entry point for visitors to the tourist attraction. Phonsavan is where the Xieng Khouang Airport - really an airfield - is located, and it was here that members of AsiaExplorers landed on our way to view the jars.
Market in progress in Phonsavan.
In the centre of town, there is a large market where you can see the local people sell a lot of interesting things. The things put on sale here include eels, bats, birds, huge rodents and even porcupines. It is a good place to mingle with the tribal people of Laos and admire their costumes.
Since it is located over a thousand meters above sea level, Phonsavan can get quite chilly at night, so warm clothing is advisable if you're coming during the winter months (November to February).
There are four flights from Vientiane to Phonsavan per week. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus from Luang Prabang. Other than that, the best way to go to Phonsavan is by organised tour (AsiaExplorers conducts a tour of Laos a few times a year - check our upcoming trips).
Look what they have for sale: birds (left) and bats (right).
Ready for a meal of porcupines tonight?
The dining hut at our guesthouse, at early morning.
Scraps and remnants from the war.
AsiaExplorers group awaiting our breakfast
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