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Wat Mixai: Temple of Victory

Discover Wat Mixai, the Temple of Victory in Vientiane: A vibrant Buddhist center with unique architecture and a glimpse into local spiritual life.

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Wat Mixai, or the Temple of Victory, is a Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, constructed in the 16th century to celebrate a military victory. Renovated in the early 1900s, it features a Central Thai architectural style and serves as a lively religious and educational center for the local community.

A brief summary to Wat Mixai

  • XJ84+532, Rue Setthathilath ban mixay, Hom 8, Vientiane, LA

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to witness the monks' almsgiving ceremony and experience the temple's peaceful atmosphere.
  • Dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting the temple.
  • Take your time exploring the intricate details of the temple's architecture, including the carvings and murals.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Wat Mixai is located on Setthathilath Road in central Vientiane, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From the Presidential Palace, walk east along Setthathilath Road for approximately 15 minutes. The temple will be on your left. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    Vientiane has a public bus system. Several bus routes serve the city center. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option to Setthathilath Road. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to Wat Mixai. A single bus fare within the city is approximately 5,000-8,000 LAK.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Vientiane. Use a ride-hailing app or flag down a taxi. Provide the driver with the address: XJ84+532, Rue Setthathilath ban mixay, Hom 8, Vientiane. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 43,655 LAK to the city center, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about Wat Mixai

Wat Mixai, also known as the Temple of Victory, is a significant Buddhist temple in the heart of Vientiane. Built during the reign of King Sai Setthathirat (1550-1571), it commemorates the victory over Burmese troops in the 16th century Lao-Burma war. The temple's name is associated with the Buddha's victory over the demon Mara. In the early 1900s, Wat Mixai was renovated, adopting a Central Thai style of religious architecture. This is evident in its less pronounced roof curve and the use of red tiles, common in Central Thailand. The temple entrance features mythical creatures, 'asuras', adopted from the Hindu epic Ramayana, and 'hti' ornaments, which are seven-tiered gold umbrella shapes common in Myanmar. Today, Wat Mixai is a functional temple serving the local community as a place of worship, monastic study, and education. Visitors can observe the daily life of monks, novices, worshippers and schoolchildren. The main hall houses a large Buddha statue, with imposing red and gold columns and a ceiling mural depicting the Buddha's life. The temple grounds also contain small stupas and sculptures of mythical creatures. While not a museum, Wat Mixai offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of Vientiane and welcomes visitors to appreciate its beauty and cultural significance.

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