Khopfa Mekong Cruise
Khopfa Mekong Cruise: A Sunset Spectacle
Wat Chomphet: A Mekong Overlook
Discover panoramic views and serene beauty at this historic hilltop temple overlooking Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
Wat Chomphet, built in 1888, sits atop a hill across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. A visit combines cultural appreciation with scenic beauty.
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
Walking
From the center of Luang Prabang's old town, walk towards the Mekong River. Head to one of the marinas opposite the Royal Palace. Take a passenger motor boat or car ferry across the Mekong River to Ban Xieng Maen. From the pier, walk about one kilometer, following signs to Wat Chomphet. The path leads to a stairway of 123 steps up to the temple. Cost: Ferry or passenger boat is approximately 5,000-10,000 LAK per person.
Tuk-tuk
Hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Luang Prabang to take you to the Mekong River. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at one of the piers where you can take a ferry or boat across the river to Ban Xieng Maen. From there, it's a one-kilometer walk to Wat Chomphet. Negotiate the tuk-tuk fare in advance. Cost: Tuk-tuk to the river pier may cost around 20,000 LAK for a short trip. Ferry/boat is 5,000-10,000 LAK per person.
Local tips
✓
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
✓
Dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
✓
Take the local car ferry for an authentic experience and to save money.
✓
Combine your visit with other temples in the Chomphet District for a fuller experience.
Discover more about Wat Chomphet
Wat Chomphet (or Wat Chom Phet) is a Buddhist temple located on a hilltop in the Chomphet district, across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang. Constructed in 1888 by the Siamese military , the temple provides visitors with panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.To reach the temple, visitors take a short ferry or boat ride across the Mekong River and then ascend a stairway of 123 steps to the temple grounds. The temple itself may be in a state of disrepair, but this adds to its authentic charm. The temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, especially during sunset.Wat Chomphet's history is intertwined with the region's past, having served as an important royal temple. The temple's two stupas contain the remains of King Ounkham and his mother. Though the temple has undergone periods of neglect, restoration efforts are underway. 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 Phonsavan
Discover the enigmatic Plain of Jars, immerse yourself in Lao culture, and explore the resilient spirit of Phonsavan in the highlands of Laos.
Tell me more about Phonsavan
