XIENG KHOUANG
Tours and Vacation Packages

• Hmong-style Grilled Meats: Hmong-style grilled meats in Xieng Khouang are a must-try for anyone exploring the region’s local cuisine. These meats are marinated with a mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and local spices before being grilled to perfection. The smoky, savory flavor makes this dish a popular choice for travelers on Laos tours and those experiencing the unique culinary offerings in Xieng Khouang tourism. Served with rice and vegetables, this dish captures the essence of traditional Hmong cooking and is a highlight of any Xieng Khouang travel package.
• Laap (Larb): Laap, or Larb, is a staple in Lao cuisine and a must-try in Xieng Khouang. This minced meat salad is flavored with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, offering a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s a dish that embodies the freshness of local ingredients and is widely enjoyed across Laos. For those looking for an authentic taste of Laos, Laap should be included in any Xieng Khouang tour or Laos travel package, as it’s a key part of the country’s rich culinary heritage.
• Wild Vegetable Soup: The Wild Vegetable Soup is a unique and wholesome dish that is often served in homestays in Xieng Khouang. Made with seasonal greens foraged from the forests, this soup offers a pure, earthy flavor that connects travelers to the region’s natural landscape. As part of the Xieng Khouang tourism experience, trying this soup provides insight into the traditional food practices of the area, making it an essential dish for anyone on a Laos tour or Xieng Khouang travel package.
• Sticky Rice (Khao Niew): Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) is a staple in Laos and a key component of nearly every meal in Xieng Khouang. It is often served with jeow mak len, a tomato-based dip, or jeow bong, a spicy chili paste that enhances the rice’s natural flavor. This humble yet essential dish is a perfect accompaniment to meat or vegetable dishes and plays a central role in Lao dining culture. If you’re traveling through Xieng Khouang or booking a Laos tour, don’t miss this traditional side dish, which embodies the heart of Lao food.
• Buffalo Jerky (Sin Savanh): Buffalo Jerky (Sin Savanh) is a chewy, flavorful snack that’s commonly enjoyed by locals and visitors in Xieng Khouang. Made from dried buffalo meat, this jerky is seasoned with local spices, offering a hearty, savory snack that pairs well with drinks or as a quick bite during your travels. It’s a popular treat for those on Xieng Khouang tours and a great option for travelers on a Xieng Khouang travel package seeking a snack that is both filling and full of local flavor. This snack gives you a taste of Laos' rich meat preservation traditions.

• Lao Lao Rice Whisky: Lao Lao is a traditional rice whisky that is often homemade and shared among locals during village visits in Xieng Khouang and other parts of Laos. This strong and distinct spirit is made from fermented rice, offering a deep, smooth flavor. As part of the Xieng Khouang tourism experience, trying Lao Lao gives travelers a taste of local customs and hospitality. It’s commonly offered during social gatherings, making it a unique cultural experience for anyone exploring Laos tours.
• Lao Iced Coffee: Lao Iced Coffee is a popular drink for those visiting Xieng Khouang, offering a rich and robust flavor that is perfect for the warm climate. Made with strong coffee and sweetened with condensed milk, this drink is both invigorating and satisfying. Lao Iced Coffee is often served at local cafes and is a must-try for coffee lovers on a Laos travel package. Whether you’re visiting the bustling markets or relaxing at an eco-lodge, this sweet, strong beverage is an essential part of the Lao experience.
• Tamarind Juice: Tamarind Juice is a tart and refreshing drink that’s often enjoyed in Xieng Khouang. Made from tamarind fruit, this juice offers a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day. It’s a popular beverage for travelers looking to try something uniquely Lao while exploring the area. Tamarind Juice can be found in many local markets and is a great addition to any Xieng Khouang travel package, giving you a taste of Laos’ natural flavors.
• Herbal Teas: Herbal Teas brewed from mountain herbs are a specialty in Xieng Khouang, especially in eco-lodges and local villages. These teas are made using a variety of herbs found in the surrounding highlands, offering a calming and refreshing experience. The natural ingredients give these teas a unique flavor, making them a favorite for relaxation after a day of exploring. When traveling through Xieng Khouang or on a Laos tour, sampling these herbal teas provides a soothing way to connect with the region’s natural environment.
• Corn Wine: Corn Wine is a unique highland specialty, especially among the Hmong communities in Xieng Khouang. This homemade wine is made from fermented corn, offering a sweet, smooth flavor that is both distinctive and enjoyable. As part of Xieng Khouang tourism, this drink is often shared during village ceremonies and gatherings, providing visitors with an authentic cultural experience. If you’re on a Laos travel package or exploring the highlands, trying corn wine is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local traditions.

• Plain of Jars (Site 1, 2, 3): Mysterious megalithic stone jars spread across valleys and hills, one of the most famous Xieng Khouang attractions. A highlight for travelers on Laos tours, offering a glimpse into ancient archaeological wonders.
• UXO Survivor Education Center: Insightful exhibit about unexploded ordnance (UXO) and the local resilience in Xieng Khouang Laos, providing a sobering look at the region’s recent history.
• Muang Khoun: Former royal capital, featuring ruined stupas and colonial buildings, offering a look into the history of Xieng Khouang province.
• Hmong Villages: Visit traditional homes, interact with the Hmong people, and learn about their customs and culture, a unique part of Xieng Khouang tourism.
• Tham Piu Cave: Memorial site where hundreds died during a 1969 bombing raid, offering a poignant experience for visitors interested in Xieng Khouang history.

The best time to visit Xieng Khouang Laos is between November and March. During this period, the cool, dry season provides perfect weather for outdoor exploration and discovering the historical wonders of Xieng Khouang tourism, including the iconic Plain of Jars. If you're interested in lush landscapes and don't mind the occasional rain, consider visiting from May to October, though be aware that the trails may be muddy, and the weather can sometimes be unpredictable.

You can reach Xieng Khouang province via Xieng Khouang Airport (XKH) with direct flights from Vientiane. Alternatively, travelers can take a scenic overland journey from Luang Prabang, which takes around 7-8 hours. This route is particularly popular for those booking Laos tours that focus on the central and northern parts of the country, allowing for an immersive view of rural Laos life.

In Xieng Khouang, hiring a local car or guide is highly recommended for exploring the rural and historical areas, including the Plain of Jars and the surrounding villages. For urban exploration within the town, renting a bicycle is a great way to travel, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area at their own pace.

When preparing for your Xieng Khouang Laos trip, pack comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring temples and historical sites, as well as sun protection for daytime excursions.

Since the weather can be chilly, especially during the evenings, bring warmer clothing to stay comfortable in the cooler highland areas.

Don’t forget a scarf if you plan on visiting local temples as a mark of respect.

Traveling in Xieng Khouang province requires being mindful of safety due to the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in certain areas. Always stay on marked paths when hiking or exploring remote regions, especially near historical sites like the Plain of Jars.

Additionally, when visiting ethnic villages such as the Hmong communities, remember to respect local customs, and always ask for permission before taking photographs to ensure you are being respectful to the villagers’ privacy.