Wat Ong Teu: A Sanctuary of Learning and History
Explore Wat Ong Teu in Vientiane, a historic Buddhist temple and learning center with stunning architecture and the city's largest Buddha statue.
Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan, also known as the Temple of the Heavy Buddha, is one of Vientiane's most important and historically rich Buddhist monasteries. Founded in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, during the golden age of Buddhism in Laos, the temple was conceived as both a place of worship and a center for learning. The temple's name comes from the massive bronze Phra Ong Teu Buddha statue housed within its ordination hall ('sim'), which is the largest Buddha image in Vientiane. Throughout its history, Wat Ong Teu has faced numerous challenges, including destruction during the Siamese invasion in 1827. The temple has been rebuilt and restored, most notably with the support of the French colonial government in the early 20th century. This reconstruction helped to re-establish the temple as a key educational institution, particularly with the founding of the Lao Buddhist Institute in 1929, which continues to function today as a school for Theravada Buddhism. The architecture of Wat Ong Teu blends traditional Lao and Thai styles, featuring multi-tiered roofs and ornate decorations. The temple complex includes a sim (ordination hall), a bell tower, a drum tower, a stupa, and monks' living quarters. The main hall houses the large bronze Buddha statue, which stands over 6 meters tall and serves as a focal point for prayer and contemplation. Wat Ong Teu remains a vibrant center for Buddhist practice and education, attracting monks and visitors from across Southeast Asia. It serves as a reminder of Laos' enduring faith and cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Dress respectfully when visiting; cover shoulders and knees. This is a functioning religious site.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to experience the temple in a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Take your time to admire the intricate details of the temple's architecture, including the multi-tiered roofs and decorative elements.
- Engage with the monks to learn more about Theravada Buddhism and the temple's role in preserving Lao traditions.
A brief summary to Wat Ong Teu
- XJ83+7G4, Vientiane, LA
Getting There
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Walking
Wat Ong Teu is centrally located in Vientiane, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From the Presidential Palace, walk east along Setthathirath Road for approximately 10 minutes. The temple will be on your right. No costs are associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
Vientiane has a public bus system, though routes can be difficult to navigate for non-locals. Check with your hotel or a local tourist information center for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. A single bus fare within the city typically costs around 6,000 LAK. From the Central Bus Station (Talat Sao), take a bus heading east and ask the driver to stop near Wat Ong Teu.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Loca are readily available in Vientiane. A short taxi ride from the city center to Wat Ong Teu should cost approximately 43,655 LAK (base fare) plus 33,315 LAK per kilometer. Ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare beforehand. A 5km ride in Vientiane costs about 9.5 USD.
