Wat Xieng Thong

Located near the spot where Mekong and Nam Khan river meet, Wat Xieng Thong is one of Luang Prabang’s most beautiful and historically-significant Buddhist temples.

Despite the number of breathtaking holy sites around Luang Prabang, there is something about Wat Xieng Thong that sets it apart that even from a distance, the remarkable architecture of the temple — sweeping two-tiered roof, wall mosaics of intricate design– can make anyone stop and stare. This temple was once a favorite of royals — coronations and other important festivities were held in Wat Xieng Thong’s temple grounds. Inside, you can find a mosaic of the tree of life, the reclining Black Buddha, walls with beautiful carvings, and a 12-metre funeral carriage bearing the ashes of Luang Prabang’s royals.

Location

The temple is located at the Xieng Thong Village, Sakkalin Road, Luang Prabang, Laos.

Opening Days and Hours

Tourists can visit the temple from 8:00 to 17:00.

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance is LAK 20,000 (USD 2.4).

How to Get There

• Fly from Vientiane to Luang Prabang via Lao Airlines or Lao Skyways.
• From the airport, board a taxi to Luang Prabang’s city centre.
• From the city centre, hire a tuk-tuk to bring you to Wat Xieng Thong.

Suggested For

• Backpackers/solo travelers
• Couples
• Group of friends
• Families

Time to Spend

You can spend at least one hour exploring Wat Xieng Thong.

Popularity and Best Time to Go

Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most visited temples in Luang Prabang. Best time to visit is between 8:00 to 10:00 and 15:00 to 17:00.

Food

Some of the nearby restaurants serving Lao and Western delicacies are La Silapa Italian and Lao Kitchen, Bamboo Garden Restaurant, Utopia Restaurant, Lao Lao Garden, Coconut Luang Prabang, and Amigos.

Nearby Attractions

• Royale Palace Museum
• Elephant Village Sanctuary
• Wat Chom Si
• Wat Manorom

Stay

Hotels such as Lotus Villa Boutique Hotel, Villa Ban Lakkham, The Apsara, Villa Santi Hotel, and The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel offer accommodations at rates ranging from USD 60 to USD 250.