The Heuan Hin (Stone House) in Xayphouthong district, Savannakhet province.--Photo Lao National Radio

Savannakhet celebrates Heuan Hin’s recognition as local heritage site

Authorities in Xayphouthong district, Savannakhet province, on March 11 held a ceremony to celebrate the designation of the Heuan Hin (Stone House) as a local heritage site.
The event featured activities such as live stage performances and a wax castle procession.
An official in charge of the celebration, Mr Phomma Songvilay, said the stone house is a unique structure whose preservation gives current and future generations an insight into the history of Laos and is evidence of Laos’ past prosperity in terms of architectural style.
Provincial authorities have built facilities in the area to attract more visitors to the site, he added.
The Stone House is believed to have been one of 121 resthouses built during the reign of Jayavarman VII from 1181-1218 along roads which once connected every corner of the Khmer empire. Therefore, it shares similar characteristics with the ruined Vat Phou temple complex in Champassak province and Phimai temple in Thailand.
The Stone House is located by the Mekong River and you can imagine the days when the Khmer people travelled up and down the river. An annual festival is held here on the full moon night every April.
Savannakhet province, located about 480km from Vientiane, is full of fascinating sights and stunning landscapes. Among these are Dong Ling (monkey forest), Tad Phalong and Salen waterfalls, and treks through protected areas with the chance to see some wildlife.
There are also the Xayyaphoum and Taleo temples as well as the Hotay Pidok manuscript repository, while several villages are home to members of the Phouthai ethnic group whose traditional lifestyle can be observed by visitors.
Popular annual events in Savannakhet include the rocket and boat racing festivals.

By Siladda Suliyong
 (Latest Update March 13, 2025)