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Wat Mai Souvannapoumaram: Luang Prabang's Gilded Gem

Discover Wat Mai, Luang Prabang's largest temple, adorned with stunning gilded reliefs and rich in Lao history and Buddhist tradition.

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Wat Mai Souvannapoumaram, or simply Wat Mai, stands as one of Luang Prabang's largest and most exquisitely decorated temples. Founded in the late 18th century, its intricate gilded reliefs and significant role in Lao history make it a must-see.

A brief summary to Wat May Souvannapoumaram

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
  • Remove hats and shoes before entering the temple's prayer halls.
  • Visit during the Lao New Year (Pi Mai) to witness vibrant celebrations and ceremonies.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the gilded reliefs and ornate decorations.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Royal Palace Museum and Mount Phousi.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Wat Mai is centrally located on Sisavangvong Road, next to the Royal Palace Museum. From most hotels and guesthouses in the city center, it is easily accessible on foot. Walking along Sisavangvong Road, you'll find the temple on the same side as Mount Phousi, a short distance from the night market area. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang. A short tuk-tuk ride from anywhere in the city center to Wat Mai typically costs around 20,000 LAK. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The ride should only take a few minutes from most central locations.

  • Bicycle

    Renting a bicycle is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around Luang Prabang. Many guesthouses and rental shops offer bicycle rentals at reasonable prices. From the city center, cycle along Sisavangvong Road towards the Royal Palace Museum; Wat Mai is located right next door. Bicycle rentals typically cost between 20,000-30,000 LAK per day.

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Discover more about Wat May Souvannapoumaram

Wat Mai Souvannapoumaram, often shortened to Wat Mai (meaning 'New Monastery'), is a stunning Buddhist temple in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos. Constructed around 1780 during the reign of King Anurat, it is one of the largest and most richly adorned temples in the city. Its proximity to the Royal Palace underscores its historical significance as a temple frequented by Lao royalty. The temple's architecture showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Lao artisans. The sim (ordination hall) features a five-tiered roof adorned with golden Naga finials, exemplifying Luang Prabang Style III. The exterior walls and doors are embellished with intricate gilded reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Jataka tales, and daily life in Luang Prabang. These elaborate patterns, floral designs, and mythical creatures create a visually captivating masterpiece. Wat Mai has served as an important religious and spiritual center, and it once housed the Pra Sangkharat, the highest Laotian Buddhist dignitary. The temple also played a crucial role in safeguarding the city's palladium, the Prabang Buddha image, after the destruction caused by Chinese Haw raiders in 1887. Today, Wat Mai remains a vibrant center for worship, learning, and cultural preservation, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage and spiritual traditions of Laos.

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