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Pha That Luang: Laos' Golden Heart

Discover Laos' national symbol, a magnificent golden stupa with a rich history and deep cultural significance, in the heart of Vientiane.

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Pha That Luang, or the Great Golden Stupa, is Vientiane's most important religious monument and a national symbol of Laos. Believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, this gleaming gold-covered stupa is a sight to behold and a testament to Lao history and culture.

A brief summary to Pha That Luang Vientiane

  • That Luang, Xaysettha, Ban Nongbone, 10009, LA

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect when visiting the temple.
  • Explore the surrounding temples, Wat That Luang Tai and Wat That Luang Neua, for a more complete experience.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
  • If visiting in October or November, don't miss the Boun That Luang festival, a vibrant celebration with parades and ceremonies.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Vientiane. Tell the driver 'Pha That Luang' or show the address. The ride from the city center typically takes 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey; expect to pay around 20,000 to 30,000 LAK. Some taxis may use a meter; base fare is approximately €1.90 (LAK 43,655) with a price per km of €1.45 (LAK 33,315).

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are a popular and readily available mode of transport in Vientiane. Negotiate the fare before your ride to Pha That Luang. A typical fare from the city center is around 60,000 LAK. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

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

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Discover more about Pha That Luang Vientiane

Pha That Luang, officially named Pha Chedi Lokajulamani, stands as the most significant Buddhist monument in Laos and a powerful symbol of national identity. Located about 4 kilometers northeast of Vientiane city center, its golden splendor is immediately striking. Legend has it that the site's history dates back to the 3rd century BC, when Indian missionaries erected a stupa to enshrine a sacred Buddha relic. Over the centuries, the site saw various transformations, including a Khmer temple in the 12th century. In 1566, King Setthathirath moved the capital to Vientiane and commissioned the construction of the current stupa, covering it in gold leaf. The stupa's design reflects Buddhist cosmology, with three levels representing the ascent from Earth to the Sky. The central stupa is surrounded by smaller stupas and a cloister adorned with ancient Lao and Khmer artifacts. Although the structure has been damaged and rebuilt several times due to invasions and wars, it has always been restored and remains a potent symbol of Lao sovereignty. Today, visitors can explore the grounds, admire the architecture, and soak in the serene atmosphere. Wat That Luang Tai, with its large reclining Buddha, and Wat That Luang Neua are also located on the grounds and are worth a visit.

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