Wat Xieng Thong

Wat Xieng Thong is the most celebrated Buddhist temple not only in Luang Prabang but in entire Laos. It was built in 1559 by the Lao King Setthathirath at the confluence of Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. It was used for Royal coronations and ceremonies till 1975. The monastic temple complex contains more than 20 structures inside its grounds, all displaying remarkable traditional Laotian art. If you have time to visit just one temple in Luang Prabang, it should be Wat Xieng Thong. Walk around the temple complex and admire the distinctive tiered roof of the main temple hall which droops low to the ground. The main hall houses Buddha statues in rare mudras. The ceilings are decorated with Dharma Chakras depicting the life of the Buddha. The Red Chapel contains a rare reclining Buddha. The magnificently carved gilded wooden doors will leave you speechless. And the icing on the cake is the stunning 'tree of life’ mosaic which adorns the rear exterior wall. You are certainly going to be awestruck with this real Laotian masterpiece!