Introducing Phonsavan
It may not be the prettiest of Laos’ provincial capitals, but urban charm isn’t what brings tourists to Xieng Khuang’s largest city. They arrive in droves to visit the Plain of Jars and other sights in the area. Most congregate in the central crisscross of streets, peppered with none-too-appealing buildings and a hodgepodge of new and old guesthouses. But Phonsavan sprawls itself over a much larger distance, and the human milieu of tourists and locals, combined with the undulating backdrop, holds a bucolic charm.
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Traditionally, the area surrounding Phonsavan and the former capital of Xieng Khuang has been a centre of Phuan language and culture (part of the Thai-Kadai family, like Lao, Siamese and Thai tribal). The local Vietnamese presence continues to increase and you’ll hear the Vietnamese language in the streets almost as frequently as Lao and Phuan.
Outside the province most Lao (including Lao Airlines) still call the capital ‘Xieng Khuang’.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Re: 15 day Itinerary November 2011-- Good or Bad? Any suggestions?
by ElegantLaos 13 September 2011
Dear Nathan, I think you have a very good plan here. I wonder on day 6, what do you do, as you mentioned flying from Phonsavanh to Vient…
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15 day Itinerary November 2011-- Good or Bad? Any suggestions?
by kargesman 13 September 2011
Hello Everyone, I have done much research on Laos and put this itinerary together with a local Laotian travel company in Laos. Would…
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Re: Late September-December. Festivals/Itinerary for SE Asia
by wanderingstraycat 12 September 2011
- approx Oct 12 (Boun Ok Phansa) & Oct 13 (Boun Lai Heua Fai - lanterns in temples across town & fireboat parade on the night after Boun…
Hotels & Hostels in Phonsavan
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Hotel Maly
Phonsavan
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Phoukham Guest House
Phonsavan -
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Vansana Plain of Jars Hotel
Phonsavan
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