Phonsavan

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Phonsavan
Center of the capital district Phonsavan
Center of the capital district Phonsavan
Phonsavan (Laos)
Phonsavan
Phonsavan
Location in Laos
Coordinates: 18.5°41′N 103.2°06′E / 19.183, 103.3
Country Flag of Laos Laos
Admin. division Xiangkhoang Province
Government
 - Mayor
Elevation 9,022 ft (2,750 m)
Population
 - Total 57,000
 - Religions Buddhism

Phonsavan (pop. 57,000) is the new capital of Xieng Khouang Province, Laos.

It was built in the mid 1970s, because the old capital of Xieng Khouang was utterly destroyed during the fighting between the Pathet Lao and American backed anti-communist troops. Its most famous attraction is the nearby Plain of Jars. The town itself is dusty and modern compared to most other Laotian towns. The Red Cross centre in the middle of the town provides information on the impact of the fighting on the town.