Khopfa Mekong Cruise
Khopfa Mekong Cruise: A Sunset Spectacle
Wat Chomphet: A Hilltop Temple with Panoramic Views
Discover Wat Chomphet in Luang Prabang: A serene hilltop temple offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into local life.
Wat Chomphet, built in 1888, sits atop a hill across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. While the temple itself is somewhat dilapidated, the serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas make it a worthwhile visit.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Wat Chomphet
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
W42Q+65V, 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
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Wat Chomphet
Getting There
Ferry and Walking
From Luang Prabang city center, proceed to the Mekong River. Take the local car ferry from the main boat landing (Tha Heua Luang, behind the Royal Palace Museum) across the Mekong River to Ban Xieng Maen. The ferry costs 5,000-10,000 LAK per person. Upon arrival in Ban Xieng Maen, walk through the village, following the signs to Wat Chomphet. The walk is approximately 1 kilometer and takes about 15-25 minutes. From the village, climb the 123 steps to reach the temple. The entrance fee to Wat Chomphet is 20,000 LAK.
Tuk-Tuk
From Luang Prabang, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Wat Chomphet. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around 24,000 LAK. The tuk-tuk will take you to the ferry landing. After crossing the Mekong River on the ferry (5,000-10,000 LAK per person), the tuk-tuk can either wait for you or you can arrange a pick-up time. From the ferry landing on the other side of the river, there will be a walk of approximately 1 kilometer to the base of the temple. Then climb the 123 steps to reach Wat Chomphet. The entrance fee to Wat Chomphet is 20,000 LAK.
Local tips
✓
Take the local ferry across the Mekong River for an authentic and inexpensive experience.
✓
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a beautiful sunset view over Luang Prabang.
✓
Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a religious site.
✓
Bring cash in Lao Kip for the ferry, entrance fee, and any snacks or drinks you may want to purchase.
Discover more about Wat Chomphet
Wat Chomphet (or Wat Chom Phet, full name Wat Chomphet Satni Silimoungknoun Vaxi Alram) is a Buddhist temple located on a hilltop in the Chomphet District, across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang. Constructed in 1888 by the Thai army, the temple provides breathtaking views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.To reach the temple, visitors take a short ferry ride across the Mekong River, followed by a walk through Ban Xieng Maen village. A climb of approximately 123 steps leads to the temple platform. The temple complex includes two aging pagodas. The temple is in a state of disrepair, though restoration efforts have begun.Wat Chomphet offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center and a glimpse into rural Laotian life. The site is particularly recommended for sunset viewing, offering a less crowded alternative to Phousi Hill. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
A brief summary to Wat Chomphet
Use Wat Chomphet as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Mekong River Valley
Discover the Mekong River Valley in Laos, where breathtaking landscapes, enriched culture, and tranquil river life offer an unforgettable travel experience.
Tell me more about Mekong River Valley
