Wat That, Vang Vieng Karst Landscape Travel Guide

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Discover Wat That in Vang Vieng: A serene Buddhist temple showcasing Lao spiritual traditions and stunning architecture. A peaceful cultural escape.

Wat That stands as the largest and most well-maintained temple in Vang Vieng, Laos, offering visitors a serene escape into the country's rich spiritual traditions. With its beautiful architecture, resident monks, and tranquil atmosphere, it's a significant cultural landmark.

A brief summary to Wat That

WCHX+PPF, Vang Vieng, LA

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning to experience the temple's peaceful atmosphere and possibly observe the morning rituals.
Dress modestly as a sign of respect; cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the temple.
Take your time to explore the grounds and appreciate the intricate details of the temple's architecture.

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Explore Wat That on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

Wat That is located approximately 1.3 km from the Vang Vieng Southern Bus Terminal. From the bus terminal, walk north along the main road. The temple will be on your right, a short distance from the town center. The walk takes around 15-20 minutes.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Vang Vieng. A tuk-tuk ride from the town center to Wat That typically costs between 50,000 to 100,000 LAK ($5 to $10), depending on your negotiation skills. Agree on the fare before starting the ride. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.

Discover more about Wat That

Wat That is more than just a temple; it's a serene sanctuary that reflects the rich spiritual traditions of Laos. Located a short distance from the center of Vang Vieng, this temple is relatively large compared to other temples in small towns in Laos and is the most well-maintained of the temples in Vang Vieng.The temple grounds feature several buildings, including a functional Buddhist temple with resident monks. The largest and most ornate of these buildings is the main prayer hall. Inside, the prayer hall has a low ceiling adorned with a collection of Buddha statues in a shrine at the far end with a wall mural behind that. Visitors should dress respectfully (no shorts, short skirts or vests) and remove their shoes before entering the building.By far, the oldest part of Wat That is the chedi, which has been discolored black over time by the weather. Chedi towers are normally the oldest part of Buddhist temples in Asia as the solid construction tends to outlast the buildings which often need to be replaced because they deteriorate or need to be updated to include modern facilities such as electrical appliances. Typically, holy relics are encased within the base of a chedi.The other major feature of Wat That is its seated Buddha covered by a distinctive green-colored pavilion. The Lord Buddha is represented in this statue with a broad smile, which is an unusual pose for a Buddha statue and something you will most likely only see at a small temple in Laos.Wat That is a must-visit for those interested in understanding the local way of life. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural knowledge, or simply a peaceful place to unwind, Wat That offers an enriching experience that resonates with visitors long after they leave.