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Pha That Luang

4.8

4.6/5239 Reviews

Historic buildings

Opening hours: 08:00-17:00

M43***18:“That Luang Temple is the most sacred Buddhist building in Laos and one of the national symbols. Its golden pagoda is ‌2. Historical background ‌Origin: It was built in the 3rd century and was originally a small pagoda for worshipping Buddha bones. In the 16th century, it was expanded to its current size by King Saythathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom. ‌Reconstruction: After wars and colonial destruction, it was restored many times in the 19th and 20th centuries. The current appearance is the result of the restoration during the French colonial period in the 1930s. ‌Symbolic significance: The That Luang pattern can be seen on the national emblem and currency of Laos, reflecting its national spirit and cultural core position. ‌3. Architectural features ‌Main tower structure: The four-story base symbolizes the Buddhist "three realms" and "nirvana", the top lotus spire points directly to the sky, and the stupa-style tower body is inlaid with reliefs and religious patterns. ‌Decorative details ‌: The base of the tower is engraved with reliefs of Buddha statues, lotus flowers, mythical beasts, etc., and the murals in the corridors depict Buddhist stories and Laotian history. ‌Attached buildings‌: The surrounding small Buddhist temples, scripture pavilions and Buddha statues are well preserved. Some buildings were newly built in recent years with a unified style. ‌4. Cultural significance‌ That Luang Temple is not only a religious holy place, but also a symbol of Lao national identity. The ‌That Luang Festival‌ (Boun That Luang) in November every year is the grandest festival. Monks and believers from all over the country gather to hold ceremonies, parades and market activities, which are very lively. ‌5. Visiting experience‌ ‌Visual shock‌: The golden pagoda forms a sharp contrast with the blue sky. It is particularly magnificent at sunrise and sunset, which is suitable for photography. ‌Cultural immersion‌: You can observe local believers praying and monks chanting scriptures, and feel the immersion of Buddhist culture. ‌Suggestions for visiting‌: Avoid the scorching sun at noon, it is best to visit in the early morning or evening; the interior of the pagoda is not open, but you can visit around the outside. ‌6. Practical information‌ ‌Opening hours‌: 8:00-17:00 (daily) ‌Tickets‌: 10,000 kip (about RMB 4) ‌Transportation‌: Tuk-tuk takes about 15 minutes to reach the center of Vientiane, and the cost is less than 30,000 kip. ‌Dress requirements‌: Wear long pants/long skirts, cover shoulders, and respect the etiquette of religious places. ‌Duration of the tour‌: 1-2 hours (it is recommended to plan a half-day itinerary in combination with other temples in the surrounding area). ‌7. Precautions‌ ‌Respect customs‌: Avoid making noise, pointing at Buddha statues, and women should not touch monks. ‌Sun protection and heatstroke prevention‌: The venue is open, and you need to prepare a hat, sunglasses, and drinking water. ‌Guide service‌: You can hire an English guide at the entrance (about 50,000 kip) to explain the historical details in depth. ‌Small vendors‌: There are stalls selling flowers, incense, candles and souvenirs outside the temple, and you can bargain appropriately. ‌8. Summary‌ ‌Recommendation Index‌: ★★★★★ That Luang Temple is a "must-visit place" in Vientiane and even Laos, with a heavy sense of history and visual impact. Although it is not as large as other famous temples in Southeast Asia, its sacred atmosphere and national symbolism are unique. Suitable for cultural enthusiasts, photography players and short-distance tourists. It is recommended to combine it with attractions such as the Vientiane Arc de Triomphe and Sisaket Temple to experience the charm of Laos. ‌Tips‌: If you have enough time, you can participate in the That Luang Festival (during the full moon in November) to experience the most authentic religious culture and folk customs!”