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Wat Xiengthong: The Jewel of Luang Prabang

Discover Wat Xiengthong, Luang Prabang's most iconic temple, a dazzling showcase of Lao architecture, history, and spiritual heritage.

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Wat Xiengthong, or the Temple of the Golden City, stands as one of Laos' most historically significant and artistically impressive monasteries. Built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, it showcases classic Luang Prabang architecture and remains a vital monument to Lao religion, royalty, and traditional art.

A brief summary to Wat Xiengthong

  • V4XV+277, Khem Khong, Luang Prabang, LA

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting this active religious site.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best light to capture the temple's glittering architecture and mosaics.
  • Take your time to explore the various buildings and appreciate the intricate details of the carvings and decorations.
  • Be mindful of the monks and novices; women should not touch them.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Wat Xiengthong is located at the northern tip of the Luang Prabang peninsula, making it easily accessible on foot from most hotels and guesthouses in the city center. From the Royal Palace Museum, walk north along Sisavangvong Road, then turn left onto Khem Khong Road. Continue walking until you reach the temple entrance. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the Mekong River. Entrance fee is 20,000 kip.

  • Tuk-Tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang and are a convenient way to reach Wat Xiengthong. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short tuk-tuk ride from the city center to Wat Xiengthong typically costs between 15,000 to 20,000 kip. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Entrance fee to the temple is 20,000 kip.

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Discover more about Wat Xiengthong

Wat Xiengthong, whose name translates to “Temple of the Golden City,” is a dazzling display of Lao artistry and a crucial landmark in Luang Prabang. Constructed between 1559 and 1560 under the reign of King Setthathirath, this temple has been a spiritual hub and a symbol of Lao identity for centuries. Located at the tip of the Luang Prabang peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers converge, Wat Xiengthong was a royal temple until 1975 and served as a site for royal coronations and major religious festivals. The temple's architecture embodies the classic Luang Prabang style, featuring a low-sweeping, multi-tiered roof adorned with gold stenciling. The Sim, or main shrine hall, is particularly striking, with its cascading roofs and intricate decorations. Inside, Dharmachakras (dharma wheels) decorate the ceiling, while the rear gable boasts a stunning glass mosaic depicting the tree of life. Other notable structures within the temple grounds include the Sanctuary of the Reclining Buddha, a royal funerary carriage house, a Triptaka library, and various stupas and chapels. The temple's walls are adorned with detailed gold stencils depicting mythological scenes and geometric designs, illustrating the story of King Chanthaphanith and Jataka tales from Buddhist cosmology. Wat Xiengthong is not only a religious site but also a vibrant art museum, showcasing the profound skill and reverence of Lao artisans.

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