Pha That Luang: The Great Golden Stupa
Vientiane's golden heart: a national symbol of Laos, a sacred Buddhist site, and a testament to Lao history and culture.
Pha That Luang, Vientiane's most important religious site and a national symbol of Laos, is a stunning, gold-covered Buddhist stupa believed to enshrine a breastbone of Buddha. Originally built as a Hindu temple in the 3rd century, it was rebuilt as a Khmer temple in the 13th century and then in the 16th century by King Setthathirath. The current design reflects Lao culture and identity, making it a must-see for any visitor.
A brief summary to Pha That Luang Vientiane
- That Luang, Xaysettha, Ban Nongbone, 10009, LA
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting; cover shoulders and knees.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- The That Luang Festival in November is a vibrant celebration.
Getting There
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Taxi
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available in Vientiane. A taxi ride from the city center to Pha That Luang typically takes 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical fare is between 30,000 to 60,000 LAK. Some taxis may use a meter with a base fare of approximately 43,655 LAK and a price per km of 33,315 LAK. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Loca are available.
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Walking
Walking to Pha That Luang is possible if you are staying in central Vientiane. From the city center, the walk is approximately 5 kilometers and takes about an hour. Be prepared for hot and humid conditions. Follow the main roads northeast, using landmarks such as Patuxai as a guide. There are no mandatory costs associated with walking.
Discover more about Pha That Luang Vientiane
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wat That Luang Neua
0.1 km
Discover a serene Buddhist temple in Vientiane, featuring golden statues, intricate murals, and a sacred Bodhi tree, near the iconic Pha That Luang.
Revolution Memorial Tower
0.5 km
Explore the Revolution Memorial Tower in Vientiane, a stunning tribute to Laos' independence and cultural heritage.
Lao Golden Hotel
2.1 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Lao Golden Hotel, your ideal base for exploring the vibrant capital city of Vientiane, Laos.
Xaysomboun Boutique Hotel
2.8 km
A conveniently located Vientiane hotel offering comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to city attractions.
King Sisavangvong Statue
2.9 km
Honor the last king of Laos at the King Sisavangvong Statue in Vientiane, a landmark of Lao history and cultural significance.
ຫໍຫຼັກເມືອງ
3.0 km
Explore Lao Buddhist art and history at this former temple, now a museum, in the heart of Vientiane.
Vientiane City Pillar (Hor Lak Muang)
3.0 km
A sacred shrine in Vientiane, honoring the city's foundation and guardian spirits with ancient pillars and cultural significance.
That Khao Primary Secondary
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant educational landscape of Vientiane at That Khao Primary Secondary, a reflection of Laos's commitment to nurturing young minds.
Presidential Palace
3.2 km
Admire the grandeur of Vientiane's Presidential Palace, a stunning example of French colonial architecture and a symbol of Laos' political history.
Unmissable attractions to see
ຮູບປັ້ນເຈົ້າໄຊເສດຖາ
0.1 km
Explore Vientiane's iconic monument, a captivating blend of history and culture set against a picturesque backdrop.
ວົງວຽນໂພນເຄັງ(bounmy psv)
0.7 km
Explore the cultural treasures of Laos at Bounmy PSV Museum in Vientiane, where history and artistry come alive in captivating exhibits.
Lao People’s Army History Museum
0.8 km
Discover the military legacy of Laos at the Lao People's Army History Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Patuxay Park
1.8 km
Discover the beauty of Patuxay Park, a serene urban oasis in Vientiane, Laos, blending history, culture, and nature in one captivating destination.
Fountain
1.9 km
Discover the enchanting Fountain in Vientiane, a vibrant landmark showcasing Lao culture amid stunning artistry and scenic beauty.
Patuxay - Victory Monument
2.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Patuxay, Vientiane's iconic Victory Monument, showcasing a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views.
Ocean Park Vientiane
2.1 km
Dive into adventure at Ocean Park Vientiane, the ultimate water park experience in Laos with thrilling slides and relaxing pools.
THATLUANG Temple
2.1 km
Discover the beauty and spiritual significance of THATLUANG Temple, a cultural landmark in Vientiane that embodies the heart of Laos.
ອະນຸສອນສະຖານ ທ່ານ ໜູຮັກ ພູມສະຫວັນ Noukhak Phoumsavanh Memorial site
2.1 km
Explore Laos's rich history at the Noukhak Phoumsavanh Memorial Site in Vientiane, where culture and heritage come alive through engaging exhibits.
Karaoke ( 베트남 노래방)
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant karaoke scene in Vientiane, where every night is filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Vientiane Library
2.3 km
Discover the Vientiane Library, a serene haven of literature and local culture in Laos' capital, perfect for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
National university Of Lao
2.5 km
Explore the National University of Laos, a cultural and educational gem in Vientiane, where tradition meets modernity in a serene campus setting.
Talat Sao Morning Market
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Laos at Talat Sao Morning Market, a must-visit destination for fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies.
COPE Visitor Centre
2.7 km
Explore the COPE Visitor Centre for an enlightening experience on Laos' history and the resilience of its people in the face of war's legacy.
Sacred Heart Cathedral - Vientiane - ວັດກາໂທລິກ
2.9 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Sacred Heart Cathedral in Vientiane, a blend of neo-Gothic architecture and rich cultural history, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Green Pepper Vientiane Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Lao cuisine at Green Pepper Restaurant in Vientiane - where every meal is a delightful journey into local flavors.
อีสานแซบ (Isan Seab)
0.9 km
Discover authentic Isan flavors at Isan Seab in Vientiane – where every dish tells a story of Thai culinary heritage.
Doi Ka Noi Restaurant
0.9 km
Discover authentic Laotian flavors at Doi Ka Noi Restaurant in Vientiane - a culinary gem for every traveler seeking unique tastes.
Tamnak Lao Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Laotian flavors at Tamnak Lao Restaurant in Vientiane—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Hangout Vientiane
2.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Hangout Vientiane - a must-visit culinary gem in Laos' vibrant capital.
Arirang Restaurant
2.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Korea at Arirang Restaurant in Vientiane - where authentic cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere.
Bistro 22
2.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Bistro 22 in Vientiane - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Horm Mou Thord (ຫອມຫມູທອດ)
2.9 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Horm Mou Thord in Vientiane's Settha Palace Hotel - where tradition meets elegance.
PVO Vietnamese Food
2.9 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at PVO Vietnamese Food in Vientiane - a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking vibrant dishes.
Belle Époque Brasserie
2.9 km
Experience the fusion of French elegance and Laotian flavors at Belle Époque Brasserie in Vientiane.
Mini Makphet
2.9 km
Discover Mini Makphet: A Culinary Haven for Authentic Laotian Flavors in Vientiane.
Lao Derm Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Laotian flavors at Lao Derm Restaurant in Vientiane – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Four Seasons Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Malaysian cuisine in Vientiane at Four Seasons Restaurant – where every dish tells a story.
The Pharaohs Restaurant
3.0 km
Savor Authentic Egyptian Cuisine and Hookah Experience at The Pharaohs Restaurant in Vientiane.
Kualao Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience the essence of Laotian cuisine at Kualao Restaurant, where tradition meets fine dining in Vientiane.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop Ho Hang Vientiane
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Lao culture at Shop Ho Hang in Vientiane, where unique clothing and traditional textiles come together.
ຮ້ານຂາຍເສື້ອຜ້າ Gingery
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant blend of traditional and modern fashion at Gingery, your go-to clothing store in Vientiane, Laos.
BILLY l’amour de ma vie
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion at Billy l’amour de ma vie, a chic clothing store in Vientiane blending local and contemporary styles for every taste.
ຮ້ານຂອບຳຣະນະຄອນຫລວງ
0.4 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship at ຮ້ານຂອບຳຣະນະຄອນຫລວງ, Vientiane's premier jewelry store showcasing local artistry.
ຮ້ານຂາຍໂມງວຽງຈັນ SR-Watch Shop
0.4 km
Explore a diverse selection of exquisite timepieces at SR-Watch Shop in Vientiane, where craftsmanship meets style in a charming setting.
PK Sport Shoes
0.4 km
Explore top-quality sportswear and footwear at PK Sport Shoes in Vientiane, Laos - your go-to destination for athletic fashion.
online shop
0.4 km
Explore Vientiane's charming children's store, offering a delightful selection of toys and apparel that sparks creativity and joy for kids of all ages.
B-Am Shop
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant fashion landscape at B-Am Shop, a must-visit clothing store in Vientiane, Laos, where culture meets style.
lila_bookshop
0.4 km
Explore the literary treasures of Lila Bookshop in Vientiane, a cozy haven for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Monic Online2023
0.4 km
Discover unique fashion at Monic Online2023, a vibrant clothing store in Vientiane blending traditional Lao culture with modern styles.
O.K Mart
0.4 km
Discover a world of beauty at O.K Mart, Vientiane's premier cosmetics store with a diverse range of products to enhance your beauty routine.
Rice store
0.4 km
Explore the heart of Laotian culture at Vientiane's Rice Store, where authentic flavors and local traditions come together in every grain.
daonoy shop
0.4 km
Explore Daonoy Shop in Vientiane for an authentic experience in beauty products that blends local traditions with modern essentials.
Magasin Tee
0.4 km
Explore the best in electronics at Magasin Tee, Vientiane's premier tech destination, offering a wide range of gadgets and top-notch accessories.
DAISO Laos (Watnak Branch)
0.4 km
Explore DAISO Laos in Vientiane for an exciting shopping experience with a vast selection of affordable home goods and unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
GoldMoon
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at GoldMoon, where local drinks and lively music create unforgettable memories.
What's Club
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at What's Club, where great music and unforgettable moments await every night.
Vegas Music Bar ຮ້ານອາຫານ ເວກັສ
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vegas Music Bar in Chanthabouly, where live music meets delicious cuisine for an unforgettable evening.
Happy life Snack Bar
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Vientiane at Happy Life Snack Bar, your go-to destination for delicious snacks and refreshing drinks.
Suite 21
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at Suite 21, a lively bar with an extensive drink menu and a welcoming atmosphere.
ຮ້ານອາຫານ ບໍ່ເປັນຫຍັງ ສາຂາ2 Bor pen yang Restaurant 2nd
2.5 km
Experience authentic Laotian flavors at Bor Pen Yang Restaurant 2nd in Vientiane, where every dish tells a story.
Club DPlus
2.6 km
Discover the electric nightlife at Club DPlus, a lively bar and nightclub in Vientiane, offering unforgettable experiences and vibrant entertainment.
Tully's Irish Pub
2.6 km
Discover Tully's Irish Pub in Vientiane: where Irish charm meets local hospitality, and every visit is filled with laughter and good cheer.
Artisan Vientiane
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at Artisan Vientiane, a charming bar offering a delightful mix of local culture and lively atmosphere.
Go Dunk
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Vientiane at Go Dunk, where live music meets a lively bar atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking local culture.
Moonlight Lounge
3.3 km
Discover the electric atmosphere of Moonlight Lounge, Vientiane's premier destination for nightlife, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.
The Beer House - Smoke & Oak Cigar Lounge
3.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence at The Beer House, Vientiane's premier beer garden and cigar lounge.
The Beer House
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant beer culture of Vientiane at The Beer House, a lively garden offering local brews and delicious snacks.
Gallery38
3.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Gallery38, Vientiane's top bar, serving creative cocktails and local brews in a vibrant setting.
Rustic White 90’s Music Bar
3.4 km
Immerse yourself in the nostalgic beats of the 90s at Rustic White 90's Music Bar, Vientiane's vibrant hub for music and fun.
