Haw Phra Bang: A Royal Temple
Discover Haw Phra Bang, Luang Prabang's Royal Temple: A blend of Lao tradition and spiritual significance, housing the country's most sacred Buddha image.
Haw Phra Bang, also known as Wat Ho Pha Bang, is a temple built to enshrine the Phra Bang Buddha image, the most revered Buddha image in Laos. The city of Luang Prabang derives its name from this image. The 83-centimeter tall Phra Bang statue is believed to have been made in Sri Lanka almost 2,000 years ago, though its style suggests it likely dates from the 14th century. The statue is made of 'thong,' a precious alloy of bronze, gold, and silver. The Phra Bang was given to Fa Ngum, the first ruler of the Lan Xang Kingdom, in 1353 by the King of Angkor. While the Phra Bang arrived in Luang Prabang in 1512, the Haw Phra Bang temple wasn't built until much later. Construction of the current structure, which replaced an older wooden temple, began in 1963 but was interrupted and only completed in 2006. Designed by Laotian and French architects, the temple combines traditional elements with modern building techniques. The temple features a three-tiered roof, a tiered facade, and intricate wood carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. The interior is adorned with murals and gilded statues, creating a spiritual atmosphere. The temple complex includes a library, a drum tower, and a bell tower. The stairways leading to the entrance are decorated with multi-headed Naga serpents. As part of the Lao New Year celebrations, the Phra Bang image is carried in procession to the Wat Mai temple, where it is ritually cleansed.
Local tips
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting the temple.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Photography is allowed inside, but flash photography is prohibited.
- Combine your visit with the Royal Palace Museum for a comprehensive experience; the entrance fee covers both.
A brief summary to Haw Phra Bang
- V4RP+MHC, Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, LA
Getting There
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Walking
Haw Phra Bang is located on the Royal Palace Museum grounds in central Luang Prabang, making it easily accessible on foot from most hotels and guesthouses in the old town. From the main street (Sisavangvong Road), enter the Royal Palace Museum complex. The temple is located in the southeastern corner of the complex. Allow 5-10 minutes walking from most central locations. No costs are associated with this approach.
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Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang. A short tuk-tuk ride from anywhere in the city center to the Royal Palace Museum will typically cost between 20,000 and 30,000 LAK, depending on your bargaining skills. Negotiate the fare before you begin your journey. From the tuk-tuk drop-off point, enter the Royal Palace Museum complex and walk to the southeastern corner to reach the temple.
