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Wat Chomphet: Mekong Views and Ancient Ruins
Discover panoramic views and historical charm at Wat Chomphet, a hilltop temple offering a tranquil escape across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang.
Perched atop a hill across the Mekong River from Luang Prabang, Wat Chomphet offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Built in 1888, this temple provides a glimpse into the region's history and a tranquil escape from the bustling town.
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
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Getting There
Ferry and Walking
To reach Wat Chomphet, start from Luang Prabang and head to the pier opposite the Royal Palace. Take a passenger motor boat or the car ferry across the Mekong River to Ban Xieng Maen. Ferries depart approximately every 10-15 minutes. The cost is approximately 5,000 LAK per person each way. Once on the other side, follow the signs and walk about one kilometer to Wat Chomphet. The walk leads to a stairway of 123 steps up to the temple.
Tuk-Tuk and Ferry
Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk in Luang Prabang for a round trip to the ferry pier. Negotiate the price beforehand, but expect to pay around 23,000 LAK. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the pier, where you'll take the ferry across the Mekong River (5,000 LAK per person each way). Upon arrival in Ban Xieng Maen, walk approximately one kilometer to the base of Wat Chomphet. From there, climb the 123 steps to the temple.
Local tips
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Wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and stunning sunset views.
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Combine your visit to Wat Chomphet with other nearby temples like Wat Xieng Maen and Wat Long Khun for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Discover more about Wat Chomphet
Wat Chomphet, or Wat Chom Phet Satni Silimoungknoun Vaxi Alram, sits prominently on a hilltop in the Chomphet District, offering breathtaking views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. Founded in 1888 by Siamese military commander Chaophraya Surasakmontri, while he was stationed in Luang Prabang to suppress the Chinese Haw. To reach the top, visitors must climb 123 steps.Though the temple is not well-maintained, its weathered façade provides a sense of authenticity. The temple's ceiling is stenciled with dragons and swans, auspicious symbols for Chaophraya Surasakmontri. Two stupas behind the sim (ordination hall) contain the remains of King Ounkham (r. 1868 - 1895) and his mother, Princess Khammoun. Wat Chomphet once served as an important royal temple during coronation ceremonies. Recent efforts have begun to restore the temple.Visitors can explore the temple grounds, soak in the scenery, and experience a peaceful atmosphere. Wat Chomphet is best visited in conjunction with other temples in the area, such as Wat Xieng Maen and Wat Long Khun.
A brief summary to Wat Chomphet
Use Wat Chomphet as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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