Ho Phra Keo Museum: A Glimpse into Lao History and Art

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Explore Lao Buddhist art and history at the Ho Phra Keo Museum, a former temple of the Emerald Buddha in Vientiane.

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Ho Phrakeo Museum

Ho Phra Keo Museum in Vientiane is a former temple transformed into a museum of religious art. Originally built in 1565 to house the Emerald Buddha, it now showcases Lao Buddhist sculptures and artifacts.

A brief summary to Ho Phrakeo Museum

XJ66+MJC, Vientiane, LA
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Monday 8 am-12 pm
Tuesday 8 am-12 pm
Wednesday 8 am-12 pm
Thursday 8 am-12 pm
Friday 8 am-12 pm
Saturday 8 am-12 pm
Sunday 8 am-12 pm

Local tips

Dress respectfully when visiting; cover shoulders and knees.
Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Presidential Palace and Wat Si Saket.

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Getting There

Walking

Ho Phra Keo Museum is located on Setthathirath Road, near the Presidential Palace in Vientiane. From the city center, head east towards the riverfront. The museum is easily accessible on foot from most central hotels and guesthouses. Walking allows you to take in the sights of Vientiane.
Public Transport

Vientiane has a public bus system. The central bus station is near the Morning Market. From there, you can take a bus towards the city center and walk a short distance to Ho Phra Keo. Bus fares are very affordable, typically around 5,000 kip per trip. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport in Vientiane. You can easily hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in the city. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short tuk-tuk ride to Ho Phra Keo from the city center should cost approximately 20,000 to 40,000 kip, depending on your bargaining skills.

Discover more about Ho Phrakeo Museum

Ho Phra Keo, also known as Haw Phra Kaew, stands as a significant landmark in Vientiane, Laos. Constructed in 1565 by King Setthathirath, it initially served as the royal temple and housed the revered Emerald Buddha. The temple provided a space for royal ceremonies and reflected the King's religious devotion and authority.However, the Emerald Buddha was moved to Bangkok following a Siamese invasion in 1779. The temple was later destroyed during subsequent conflicts with the Siamese in 1828. It wasn't until the 1930s and 1940s, under French control, that the temple was rebuilt. In the 1970s, it was transformed into a museum.Today, Ho Phra Keo Museum showcases an extensive collection of Lao art and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore Buddha statues, wood carvings, and stone sculptures, offering insights into the country's rich cultural heritage. The museum also features a well-maintained garden, providing a tranquil space for reflection. The architecture reflects a blend of traditional Lao design and French colonial influences.