Wat Xiengthong, Xieng Khouang Travel Guide

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Discover Wat Xiengthong in Luang Prabang: A stunning temple showcasing Lao art, history, and spirituality at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

Wat Xiengthong, or the Temple of the Golden City, stands as one of the most historically significant and visually stunning temples in Luang Prabang, Laos. Built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, it embodies the essence of Lao religious art, royalty, and traditional architecture. Its location at the tip of the Luang Prabang peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, adds to its spiritual allure.

A brief summary to Wat Xiengthong

V4XV+277, Khem Khong, Luang Prabang, LA

Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Dress respectfully when visiting the temple; cover shoulders and knees.
Take your shoes off before entering any of the temple buildings.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple grounds and appreciate the intricate details of the architecture and artwork.
Be mindful of monks and novices; women are not allowed to touch them.

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Explore Wat Xiengthong on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

Wat Xiengthong is located on the main street at the end of the peninsula in Luang Prabang. From the city center, it's an easy walk, taking approximately 20 minutes. Head northeast, following the main road. The temple is situated on an embankment above the Mekong River, making it a prominent landmark.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Luang Prabang. A tuk-tuk ride from the city center to Wat Xiengthong typically costs between 15,000 to 20,000 LAK, depending on your starting location and negotiation skills. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Wat Xiengthong

Wat Xiengthong is more than just a temple; it's a living testament to Lao history, culture, and artistry. Constructed between 1559 and 1560, under the reign of King Setthathirath, its name translates to "Temple of the Golden City". The temple served as a royal temple until 1975 and was a place for royal coronations and important religious festivals.The temple's architecture exemplifies classic Lao style, featuring a sweeping, low-pitched roofline that seems to cascade towards the earth. The sim, or main shrine hall, boasts nine cascading roofs adorned with gold stenciling. The center of the roof is decorated with the Dok So Fa, small, gold-covered pagodas that reach towards the sky. Inside, the walls are decorated with gold stencils depicting mythological scenes and Jataka stories from Buddhist cosmology.Wat Xiengthong houses several notable structures, including the Sanctuary of the Reclining Buddha, which features a rare reclining Buddha statue dating back to the temple's construction. The royal funerary carriage house displays the 12-meter-high funeral carriage of King Sisavang Vong, adorned with intricate carvings. The rear gable of the sim is decorated with a stunning glass mosaic depicting the Tree of Life, a symbol with multiple interpretations, including the enlightenment of Sakyamuni Buddha.Today, Wat Xiengthong remains a vital center for religious practice and a major tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the temple's many structures, admire its intricate artwork, and experience the serene atmosphere that permeates the grounds.