Ho Phrakeo Museum, Vientiane Travel Guide

Ho Phra Keo, also known as Haw Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a former Buddhist shrine that stands as a museum of religious arts. Constructed in 1565 by King Setthathirat, it was intended to house the Emerald Buddha, which is now located in Bangkok's Grand Palace. The temple served as the royal chapel for the Lao monarchy.Ho Phra Keo has faced destruction and reconstruction throughout its history due to Siamese invasions. The temple was rebuilt by 1942 under French control. Today, it is no longer a place of worship but a museum displaying Lao Buddhist sculptures and artifacts.Inside, visitors can explore the main museum, which features an altar for the Emerald Buddha and various Buddhist artifacts, carvings, and scriptures. The museum also displays Buddha statues, 6th-century stone sculptures, a gilded throne, Khmer Buddhist stone tablets, bronze frog drums, and palm-leaf manuscripts. The stone balustrade at the temple stairs is adorned with a dragon.Outside, a well-maintained garden offers a peaceful space for meditation and rest. From the terrace, visitors can enjoy views of the Presidential Palace.