Background

Wat Phousalao: The Golden Buddha Overlooking Pakse

Discover Wat Phousalao in Pakse: a hilltop temple with a giant golden Buddha and stunning Mekong River views. A spiritual and scenic escape.

4.5

Wat Phousalao, a Buddhist temple in Pakse, Laos, is perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city and the Mekong River. Its centerpiece is a giant golden Buddha statue, making it a serene retreat and a significant cultural landmark.

A brief summary to Wat Phousalao

  • ບ້ານສະເຫຼົ້າ ເມືອງໂພນທອງ ແຂວງຈຳປາສັກ, Pakse, LA
  • +8562099786676

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as the steps can be steep.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape.
  • Dress modestly to respect local customs when visiting the temple.
  • Consider visiting during Buddhist festivals for a unique cultural experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Pakse, walking to Wat Phousalao is possible but quite a trek. Head southeast on Route 13 towards Champasak. After crossing the Lao-Japanese Bridge, take the first left. You can either climb the long staircase or take the 4.5km road to the top. Be prepared for a steep climb. There is no entrance fee to the temple.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Wat Phousalao via public transport, take a local bus or tuk-tuk from Pakse. Head to the main bus station and look for buses heading towards Champasak. Inform the driver of your destination. The bus fare is around 10,000 LAK. The bus will drop you off near the temple, from where it is a 15-minute walk uphill. Then climb the stairs to the temple. There is no entrance fee to the temple.

  • Taxi/Tuk-tuk

    A taxi or tuk-tuk from Pakse city center is a convenient way to reach Wat Phousalao. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short tuk-tuk trip typically costs between 30,000 to 50,000 LAK. The ride to Wat Phousalao takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. From the drop-off point, there is a staircase to reach the temple. There is no entrance fee to the temple.

Unlock the Best of Wat Phousalao

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Wat Phousalao

Wat Phousalao, also known as the Golden Buddha Temple, is a captivating destination that blends cultural richness with natural beauty. Located in Pakse, Laos, this Buddhist temple sits on a hill, providing a tranquil escape from the city below. The temple's most striking feature is the massive golden Buddha statue that captures the essence of Laotian spirituality. While Wat Phousalao is a relatively modern construction, likely emerging in the latter half of the 20th century, it embodies the essence of Laotian Buddhism and cultural heritage. The name "Wat Phou Salao" translates to "Wat Phou of the Salao tree," a tree that holds religious significance in Buddhism. The temple's architecture showcases traditional Laotian design, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Pakse and the Mekong River from the temple grounds, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. The site is adorned with ornate Buddhist statues and colorful prayer flags, creating a serene sanctuary. The climb to the top involves steep stairs and winding paths, adding to the adventure.

Popular Experiences near Wat Phousalao

Popular Hotels near Wat Phousalao

Select Currency