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Wat Pa Phon Phao: The Temple of Tranquility

Discover Wat Pa Phon Phao in Luang Prabang: A serene temple with unique architecture, stunning murals, and panoramic views.

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Wat Pa Phon Phao, or the Temple of Tranquility, is a Buddhist temple on a hill in Luang Prabang, Laos. Known for its unique octagonal architecture and intricate murals, the temple provides a serene space for meditation and offers panoramic views of the city.

A brief summary to Wat Pa Phon Phao

  • V5M2+67F, 13, Luang Prabang, LA

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor towards the monks and nuns at the temple.
  • Remove shoes, hats, and sunglasses before entering the temple premises.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Luang Prabang city center, Wat Pa Phon Phao is approximately a 3km walk. Head southeast, crossing the Nam Khan River. Follow the road, keeping an eye out for the temple on a hill to your left. The walk takes around 45 minutes, offering views of the surrounding area. No costs involved.

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available in Luang Prabang. Negotiate a round trip fare to Wat Pa Phon Phao, which should cost around 24,000 LAK (approximately $3 USD). The journey takes about 10-15 minutes from the city center.

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Discover more about Wat Pa Phon Phao

Wat Pa Phon Phao, also known as the Temple of Tranquility, is a distinctive Buddhist temple located on a hill southeast of Luang Prabang, Laos. Overlooking the Nam Khan River and situated near the Luang Prabang Airport, this temple serves as a peaceful forest meditation retreat. Built in the 1950s by Mrs. Bounmy Phonsak, a wealthy Laotian woman, Wat Pa Phon Phao stands out with its octagonal shape, symbolizing the Buddhist Eightfold Path to enlightenment. The temple is adorned with a golden stupa and was once led by the abbot Ajahn Saisamut, a revered Lao Buddhist teacher whose funeral in 1992 was one of the largest ever seen in Laos. The interior of Wat Pa Phon Phao features a collection of detailed murals depicting Buddhist teachings and mythology. These colorful murals offer insights into the life of Buddha and Buddhist cosmology, with some portraying scenes of Buddhist hell as a reminder of moral living. The temple's unique architecture, serene environment, and artistic expressions make it a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in Luang Prabang. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the gardens, and witness the daily practices of Buddhist monks.

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