Xieng Khouang is located in the north of Laos. Its landscape mainly consists of mountains and hills. Xieng Khouang province offers access to beautiful high green mountains and rugged karst formations. The former capital city, Muang Khun, was significantly damaged by US bombing and consequently, the capital was moved nearby to Phonsavanh. Of several Muang Khun Buddhist temples built between the 16th and 19th century, only ruins remain. Vat Pia Vat, however, survived the bombing and welcome visitors.