Pha That Luang: The Great Golden Stupa

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Discover Laos' most sacred monument, a dazzling golden stupa that embodies the nation's spirit and rich Buddhist heritage.

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Pha That Luang Vientiane

Pha That Luang, or the Great Golden Stupa, is Vientiane's most iconic landmark and Laos' most important religious monument. Covered in gold leaf, the massive stupa is a symbol of national pride and Lao sovereignty. The temple complex is a must-see for anyone visiting the capital city.

A brief summary to Pha That Luang Vientiane

That Luang, Xaysettha, Ban Nongbone, 10009, LA

Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

Dress modestly when visiting; cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
Visit during the annual Boun That Luang festival in November to experience traditional performances, music, and ceremonies.
Explore the surrounding complex to discover temples, monuments, and gardens, each offering a unique glimpse into Lao culture.
Be aware of the opening hours, as the site typically closes for an hour around midday.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Vientiane and offer a direct route to Pha That Luang. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical ride from the city center costs around 60,000 kip. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxi

Taxis offer a quick and convenient way to reach Pha That Luang. You can find taxis through apps like LOCA or by hailing one on the street. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs between $3 to $5 (approximately 30,000 to 50,000 kip). The journey usually takes around 5 minutes.
Public Transport

Take bus number 14 from the bus station near the Morning Market (Talat Sao). Ask the driver to confirm the bus stops at Pha That Luang. The journey may take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is approximately 5,000 LAK.

Discover more about Pha That Luang Vientiane

Pha That Luang, located in Vientiane, is more than just a temple; it's the national symbol of Laos and a testament to the country's rich history and Buddhist traditions. The 'Great Golden Stupa' is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage site.The site's history dates back to the 3rd century BC, with legends attributing the original stupa to Emperor Ashoka. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous transformations, including being rebuilt as a Khmer temple in the 13th century. In the 16th century, King Setthathirath moved the capital to Vientiane and ordered the construction of the current stupa, surrounding it with 30 smaller stupas. The stupa has faced destruction and looting from Siamese invasions, with restorations in the 20th century by the French colonial government.The architecture of Pha That Luang is impressive, with a pyramid-shaped main stupa reaching 45 meters in height and covered with 500 kilograms of gold leaf. The design incorporates three levels, representing the path to enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy. The surrounding complex includes temples, gardens, and monuments, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Two temples, Wat That Luang Tai and Wat That Luang Neua, remain of the original four built around the stupa.