Wat Luang: Pakse's Spiritual Heart

Wat Luang, considered the most sacred temple in Pakse, is a prominent religious site reflecting the cultural heritage of Southern Laos. Established in 1935 during the French colonial period, the temple initially served as a Buddhist school, teaching English, business, and cultural studies to monks. Today, it remains a vital center for Buddhist worship and community activities in Pakse. The temple's architecture features a traditional Lao style, evident in its tiled roofs, concrete pillars, and wooden doors. The walls are adorned with murals depicting the life of Buddha and various myths. Inside the congregation hall, or "sim," a large golden Buddha image is displayed in the "Calling the Earth to Witness" mudra. Local belief holds that Buddha's footprint can be found on the temple grounds, attracting devotees. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire treasured artifacts, and discover remarkable items from the area. The temple also houses funerary shrines containing ashes of the Lao royal family and a former prime minister. The temple is situated near the Xe Don River, offering opportunities for scenic river cruises.