That Ing Hang: A Sacred Stupa in Savannakhet

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Discover That Ing Hang Stupa in Savannakhet: a sacred site with stunning architecture and deep-rooted Buddhist traditions dating back to the 16th century.

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That Ing Hang

That Ing Hang is a revered Buddhist stupa located 12km northeast of Savannakhet, Laos. Believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha's collarbone or spine, it's a significant pilgrimage site with architecture reflecting Lao and Khmer influences. The stupa is a powerful symbol of faith and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from across the world.

A brief summary to That Ing Hang

JV52+FJ2, Savannakhet, LA

Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Dress respectfully, covering shoulders, chest, and knees. Women may be required to wear a traditional Lao skirt (sinh) to enter the temple grounds.
Visit during the annual That Ing Hang Festival (first full moon of the lunar calendar) for a vibrant cultural experience.
Take time to explore the gardens surrounding the stupa for a peaceful escape.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Savannakhet city center, the most common way to reach That Ing Hang is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate the fare beforehand; a round trip should cost approximately 100,000 LAK. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Confirm that the driver will wait for you while you visit the stupa.
Motorbike/Bicycle

You can rent a motorbike or bicycle in Savannakhet. Follow Route 9 northeast for about 11.5 km, then turn east for 3 km where you will see clear signposts. Motorbike rentals cost around 20,000 LAK per day. Be mindful of traffic and road conditions.
Public Transport

Any northbound bus from Savannakhet can drop you off near That Ing Hang. Tell the driver your destination in advance. From the main road, it's a short walk to the stupa. Bus fares are typically very affordable (a few thousand LAK), but schedules can be infrequent. Check local bus schedules at the Savannakhet bus station.

Discover more about That Ing Hang

That Ing Hang Stupa, approximately 9 meters tall, is one of the most important religious sites in Laos, located in Savannakhet. Built in 1560 by King Setthathirath of the Lan Xang kingdom, the stupa stands on the site of a pre-existing Khmer temple. It is believed to enshrine a sacred relic of the Buddha's collarbone or spine, imbuing it with immense religious significance. According to local tradition, the Buddha rested here while wandering in ancient times, leaning against a 'hang' tree, hence the name 'Ing Hang'. The stupa's architecture reflects both Lao and Khmer styles. It features three terraced bases topped by a traditional Lao stupa and a gold umbrella weighing 450g. The lower section contains a chamber housing a collection of Buddha images; however, women are not permitted to enter this chamber. The French restored That Ing Hang in 1930. That Ing Hang continues to be a center of pilgrimage and devotion. Visitors can appreciate the tranquil ambiance, intricate architecture, and vibrant murals depicting Buddhist stories. The annual That Ing Hang Festival, held on the full moon of the first lunar month, is a major event. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respect local customs.