Wat Xiengthong, Luang Prabang Travel Guide

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Discover Wat Xiengthong, Luang Prabang's 'Golden City Temple,' a masterpiece of Lao architecture and a spiritual sanctuary on the Mekong River.

Wat Xiengthong, or the 'Golden City Temple,' is a magnificent Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, Laos, showcasing traditional Lao architecture and artistry. Built in 1560 by King Setthathirath, it remains one of the most historically significant and visually stunning temples in the country.

A brief summary to Wat Xiengthong

V4XV+277, Khem Khong, Luang Prabang, LA

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wat Xiengthong.

Dress respectfully when visiting: cover your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering the sim.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the temple in a more peaceful setting.
Take your time to admire the intricate details of the mosaics, carvings, and murals throughout the temple complex.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of Wat Xiengthong.

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Explore Wat Xiengthong on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Wat Xiengthong, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Wat Xiengthong is located in Luang Prabang's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most guesthouses and hotels. From the city center, simply walk towards the tip of the peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. The temple is a prominent landmark and easy to find. Allow 10-20 minutes walking from the main street, Sisavangvong Road.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang. Negotiate the fare before you get in. A short ride from anywhere in the city center to Wat Xiengthong should cost around 20,000-30,000 LAK. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.

Discover more about Wat Xiengthong

Wat Xiengthong stands as a shimmering testament to Lao artistry and religious devotion. Constructed in 1560 by King Setthathirath, its strategic location near the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers once marked it as a gateway for royal processions. The temple's name, meaning 'Golden City Temple,' hints at its former splendor and importance.The sim, or ordination hall, is the centerpiece, distinguished by its sweeping, multi-tiered roof that extends low to the ground, a classic example of Luang Prabang architectural style. The exterior is adorned with intricate mosaics, including the famed 'tree of life' mosaic on the west gable, crafted from colored glass. Inside, the temple houses a collection of gilded Buddhas and elaborate murals depicting scenes from Lao history and Buddhist mythology.Beyond the sim, explore the various structures within the temple complex, each with its own unique charm. The royal funerary carriage house displays an ornate, gilded carriage used for royal cremations. The red chapel, with its exterior murals, recounts the story of a local hero. Throughout the grounds, smaller shrines and stupas add to the temple's serene atmosphere. Wat Xiengthong offers a captivating glimpse into Laos' rich cultural and spiritual heritage, making it an unmissable destination in Luang Prabang.