Wat Kang: A Glimpse into Vang Vieng's Past

Wat Kang is a modest yet charming Buddhist temple nestled in Vang Vieng, Laos. Located at the north end of town, it offers a tranquil respite from the lively tourist scene. As one of the two Buddhist temples in the town center, Wat Kang provides a window into the local culture and history. The ordination hall, constructed in 1938, is adorned with intricate paintings, showcasing a typical Lao temple design found outside major cities. Inside, visitors can admire a seated Buddha statue and a reclining Buddha statue, along with four smaller Buddha images and a small chedi. The temple's drum tower is a significant feature, traditionally marking the center of a Laotian village or town. Its presence suggests that Wat Kang may be the older of the two temples, once situated at the heart of Vang Vieng before the town expanded. While the exact founding date of Wat Kang remains unknown, it stands as a testament to the town's past. Before the surge in tourism and the establishment of the airfield during the 'Secret War,' Vang Vieng was a small, agricultural community, suggesting that early temples were likely simple structures. Today, Wat Kang provides a peaceful space for reflection and an opportunity to appreciate the cultural heritage of Vang Vieng.