Wat Sisaket, Southern Laos Travel Guide

4.4 (2042)

Explore Vientiane's oldest temple, Wat Sisaket, home to thousands of Buddha images and unique Siamese-Lao architecture.

Wat Sisaket, built in 1818 in Vientiane, Laos, stands as the city's oldest surviving temple. Uniquely constructed in the Siamese style, it houses thousands of Buddha images within its cloister walls, offering a glimpse into Lao's rich Buddhist heritage.

A brief summary to Wat Sisaket

XJ76+7GG, Ave Lane Xang, Vientiane, LA
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Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wat Sisaket.

Dress respectfully by covering shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Take your time to explore the cloisters and admire the intricate details of the Buddha statues.
Note that the temple is open from 8:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00.

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Explore Wat Sisaket on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Wat Sisaket, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Wat Sisaket is centrally located on Lane Xang Avenue, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in Vientiane. If you are near the Presidential Palace or Nam Phu Fountain, it's a short walk. Simply head east towards Lane Xang Avenue; the temple will be on your right.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Vientiane and are a convenient way to reach Wat Sisaket. A typical ride within the city center should cost between 20,000 to 40,000 LAK, but be sure to negotiate the price before you begin your journey. From Wattay International Airport, a tuk-tuk ride will cost approximately 50,000 LAK.
Public Transport

Vientiane has a public bus system, and some routes may pass near Wat Sisaket. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information. Bus fares are typically 6,000-10,000 LAK per trip.

Discover more about Wat Sisaket

Wat Sisaket, located on Lane Xang Avenue in Vientiane, is a testament to Laos' enduring cultural and religious heritage. Constructed between 1819 and 1824 under the reign of King Anouvong, it distinguishes itself with Siamese architectural influences, setting it apart from traditional Lao temples. This unique design, featuring a five-tiered roof and a surrounding terrace, may have been instrumental in its survival during the Siamese invasion of 1828, which devastated much of Vientiane.The temple's most striking feature is its vast collection of Buddha images. Over 6,800 Buddha statues reside within the temple, crafted from various materials such as wood, stone, tin, and bronze. These statues, dating from the 16th to 19th centuries, are arranged in niches along the cloister walls, creating a visually stunning and spiritually significant environment. Some statues bear the marks of past conflicts, serving as reminders of the nation's history and resilience.Inside the main hall (Sim), visitors can admire murals depicting scenes from the Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha's past lives. The temple complex also includes a former library, which once housed ancient palm-leaf manuscripts documenting Buddhist teachings. Although Wat Sisaket is a museum, it continues to function as a working monastery, with monks and novices in residence. The temple's serene atmosphere and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand Lao culture and spirituality.