Wat Si Muang
Wat Si Muang, a popular place of worship in Vientiane, is an important landmark that houses the pillar lak meuang, a site believed to be the home of the city’s guardian spirit.
The temple not only has an impressive architecture but it also has an interesting origin — according to legend, a pregnant woman named Si Muang sacrificed herself to appease the angry gods, and eventually, her spirit became the guardian of Vientiane. Visiting Wat Si Muang also provides a unique insight into how the belief of the old animists blended well with Theravada Buddhism. Tourists visit Wat Si Muang either to ask for good fortune by making a promise or to return to fulfill the promise they made.
Location
Wat Si Muang is located in Rue Thaduea, Vientiane, Laos.
Opening Days and Hours
Tourists can visit the temple from 6:00 to 19:00 every day.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance costs LAK 3000 (USD 0.36).
How to Get There
- Fly to Vientiane via local airlines such as Lao Air. International flights to Vientiane are also available via AirAsia, Vietnam Airlines, and Thai Airways.
- From the airport, hire a taxi or board a bus to the town centre.
- From the centre, hire a tuk-tuk to Wat Si Muang.
Suggested For
- Backpackers/solo travelers
- Couples
- Group of friends
- Families
Time to Spend
Spend at least one hour exploring the area.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Because Wat Si Muang is a famous tourist attraction, it’s best to visit as early as 7:00.
Food
While visiting Wat Si Muang, you can try different restaurants serving local and western dishes. Choose from nearby restaurants such as Mittaphap Restaurant, Tota Restaurant, Kung’s Cafe, and Cafe Sinuok.
Nearby Attractions
- Patuxai
- Wat Si Saket
- That Dam
- Lao National Museum
Stay
Find accommodations from nearby hotels like Hemera Hotel, Mercure Vientiane, Green Park Boutique Hotel, and Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel. Rates range from USD 60 to USD 150.