Wat Chomphet: Mekong Views and Ancient History

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Discover panoramic Mekong views and a serene escape at Wat Chomphet, a historic temple offering a glimpse into authentic Lao village life.

Wat Chomphet, a Buddhist temple built in 1888, sits atop a hill across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang, Laos. While the temple itself is somewhat dilapidated, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, especially at sunset. A visit involves a short ferry ride and a climb, rewarding travelers with a peaceful escape and a glimpse into local village life.

A brief summary to Wat Chomphet

W42Q+65V, Luang Prabang, LA
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Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as Wat Chomphet is a sacred site.
Visit during the late afternoon to witness a breathtaking sunset over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
Take the local ferry to cross the Mekong River for an affordable and authentic experience.
Bring cash in Lao Kip for the ferry, entrance fee, and any snacks or drinks you may want to purchase in the village.
Be mindful of the cracked and uneven steps leading to the temple and wear appropriate footwear.

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Getting There

Ferry and Walking

From Luang Prabang's city center, make your way to the riverfront near the Royal Palace. Take the local car ferry from the marinas opposite the Royal Palace to cross the Mekong River to Ban Xieng Maen. Ferries depart approximately every 10-15 minutes and cost around 5,000-10,000 Kip per person. Avoid offers from private boats, which may charge significantly more. Once on the other side, walk approximately 1 kilometer (about 15-25 minutes) to Wat Chomphet, following the signs. The walk passes through a village. At the bottom of Wat Chomphet, you'll find the ticket booth where you can purchase your entrance ticket for 20,000 Kip. Climb the 123 steps to reach the temple.
Tuk-Tuk and Ferry

From anywhere in Luang Prabang, hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the Mekong River crossing. A short tuk-tuk ride within the city typically costs around 20,000 Kip. Negotiate the price beforehand. At the riverfront, take the local car ferry to cross the Mekong River to Ban Xieng Maen. Ferries depart approximately every 10-15 minutes and cost around 5,000-10,000 Kip per person. From the ferry landing in Ban Xieng Maen, you can either walk (approx. 1 kilometer) or hire another tuk-tuk to take you to Wat Chomphet. A tuk-tuk from the ferry landing to the temple should cost around 20,000 Kip. The entrance fee to Wat Chomphet is 20,000 Kip.

Discover more about Wat Chomphet

Wat Chomphet, officially named Wat Chomphet Santisilimoungkhoun Vuthovaxiraram, offers visitors a unique blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. Constructed in 1888 by a Siamese military commander, the temple's hilltop location provides breathtaking views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.While the temple has suffered from neglect over the years, its weathered facade adds to its authentic charm. Restoration efforts began in late 2023, aiming to preserve this historical site. The temple grounds offer a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore the gardens and admire the Buddha statues.To reach Wat Chomphet, travelers cross the Mekong by ferry, followed by a walk through a local village. This provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Lao people, offering a more authentic experience than the bustling city center. The climb to the temple involves navigating steps that may be cracked or broken, so caution is advised. Despite the challenges, the panoramic views and serene ambiance make Wat Chomphet a worthwhile destination.Inside the temple, visitors can observe the blend of Chinese and Thai artistic influences in the murals. The temple has also served as a site for royal coronation ceremonies, adding to its historical significance. The two stupas at the rear of the sim (main hall) contain the remains of King Ounkham (r. 1868 - 1895) and his mother Princess Khammoun.