Wat Wisunarat, Southern Laos Travel Guide

Wat Wisunarat, also known as Wat Visoun, stands as a testament to Luang Prabang's rich history and enduring Buddhist traditions. Constructed in 1513 during the reign of King Wisunarat, it holds the distinction of being the oldest temple in the city. The temple's history is marked by both reverence and destruction. Originally built from wood, it was tragically burned down in 1887 during an invasion by Black Haw riders, a Chinese military rebel group.The temple was rebuilt in 1896, using stucco and brick while retaining elements of its original Lao architectural style. The wooden windows reflect the Wat Phou Temple in southern Laos, complemented by classic Luang Prabang stucco work. One of Wat Wisunarat's most striking features is the large Sinhalese-style stupa in the northeast corner. This stupa, commissioned by the wife of King Wisunarat, is designed to resemble a lotus flower, though locals often refer to it as the 'watermelon stupa' due to its rounded dome. This unique stupa is the only one of its kind in Laos.Inside the sim (main hall), visitors can view a collection of gilded Buddha statues and ancient stones dating back to the 15th century. These stones were donated by Prince Phetsarat following the Black Haw invasion. The temple once housed the revered Pha Bang Buddha image, now located in the Royal Palace Museum. Over the years, Wat Wisunarat has also served as a Museum of Religious Arts, housing various religious artifacts and precious items related to Buddhism and the royal family. Today, Wat Wisunarat continues to function as a working temple, welcoming visitors to explore its grounds and learn about its fascinating history.