#40 Trek through the Plain of Jars in Laos

But do this with a guide or stay within the footpaths; some of the areas where these stone jars are located may still harbour UXO (unexploded ordnance) from the “Secret War”, when the US dropped missiles on Laos between the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Hint of danger aside, we think these megaliths are still worth your while.

Referred to as the Stonehenge of Southeast Asia, the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang province feature just that: jars made of sandstone, granite or limestone that number to the thousands, which measure about three metres tall and can weigh up to a tonne.

Dating back to the Iron Age, they’re believed to have once served as burial sites and a place for funeral ceremonies after archaeologists found human remains and burial goods.

The three major jar sites are found around Phonsavan, a seven- to eight-hour bus ride from Luang Prabang.

Text done by Ana Ismail.