8 AMAZING MUST-SEE Buddhist Temples in Luang Prabang
Stunning Buddhist Temples in Luang Prabang
The best part about temple-hopping here?
Every time I walked into a new Wat (that’s what they call temples), I discovered something amazing – maybe a glittering glass mosaic or a towering spire touching the clouds.
These aren’t just tourist spots either – they’re living, breathing centres of Buddhist culture where local life unfolds every day.
They all make Luang Prabang worth visiting!
Having checked out Buddhist temples all over Southeast Asia, I can tell you there’s something extra special about the ones in Luang Prabang. They mix traditional Lao style with influences from neighbouring kingdoms in a way you just won’t find anywhere else.
If you are coming to Luang Prabang on the Slow Boat, check out my in-depth guide and vlog.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you make a booking through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my Privacy Policy.
🇱🇦 Luang Prabang Quick Guide 🇱🇦
- When To Visit:
Best Months To Visit Luang Prabang (Dry season Nov–Feb is ideal). Weather & Festivals (like Lao New Year / Pi Mai) - Where To Stay In Vang Vieng?
- Getting To Luang Prabang: Flights To Luang Prabang. Overnight Buses & Minivans. Private Transfers / Car Rentals
- Things To Do In Luang Prabang
Alms Giving Ceremony, Pak Ou Caves, KuangSi Waterfalls, Sunset Cruise - Get Trusted Travel Insurance – I Use Safety Wing
Watch My Vang Vieng Travel Vlog
Vat Visounnalath/Vat Wisunarat
Opening Times: 06.00 AM – 6.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1 hour
Cost: Free
Address: V4PQ+VHV, Luang Prabang, Laos
Vat Visounnalath was one of the first temples we explored in Luang Prabang, as it was close to our hotel Mao Pha Sok Guesthouse.
It gave us a welcoming taste of what was to come in the following days,
Vat Visounnalath, aka Vat Wisunarat. It was built in 1513 by King Wisunarat and is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang.
The temple is known for its unique blend of Lao and Khmer architectural styles. They can be seen in its carvings and detailed murals.
There is also a museum for those interested in Buddhist iconography and history.
The temple’s main attraction is the Phra Bang, a sacred Buddha image considered Laos’s most important religious artefact.
The Phra Bang was originally enshrined in the temple of the same name but was moved to Vat Visounnalath in the 16th century.
I made a post about coming from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, which can help you plan the trip with ease.
Vat Sensoukharam
Opening Times: 08.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free
Address: V4WR+5M2, Luang Prabang, Laos
Sensoukharam is a beautiful temple with golden leaf decorations.
Its name means “100,000 treasures”, and there are different legends about how it got this name.
One legend says that the temple was built with 100,000 stones from the nearby Mekong River. I
n contrast, others claim that it was named after the 100,000 Laotian KIPs that were needed in 1718 to build the temple.
Whether true or not, this Luang Prabang Temple is a must-visit!
Furthermore, the temple is conveniently located in the old quarter of town along the main street (Sakkaline Road), between Vat Xieng Thong and Phousi Mountain, with stunning views of both the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers.
I also made a post about the best restaurants in Luang Prabang.
Vat Syrimoungkoun Xaiyaram
Opening Times: 08.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free
Address: V4WV+F33, Luang Prabang, Laos
Vat Syrimoungkoun Xaiyaram is easy to identify because of two white lion statues outside the entrance, which capture your attention immediately.
The temple complex may have a smaller building for worship, but it has a large courtyard where you can often see young novice monks studying in the shade of frangipani trees.
This peaceful temple will automatically relax you and bring you a sense of inner peace.
The monks who live in the kutis (living areas for the monks) will be roaming around the courtyard, and they are also found in other temples in Luang Prabang.
Vat Sibounheuang
Opening Times: 08.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free
Address: V4WV+G5Q, Luang Prabang, Laos
Vat Sibounheuang is one of Luang Prabang’s magnificent temples.
I fell in love with the ceiling and the gold and red colours as you came to the entrance.
There is a unique sense of calm at all the temples in Luang Prabang, and Vat Sibounheuang is something special.
You can embrace the aura of the monks as they will undoubtedly be walking around the temple, and the aroma of incense will add to the atmosphere of calm. Here, you will be present.
The famous Alms giving ceremony, where offerings are donated to the monks every morning in Luang Prabang, happens outside this temple on Sakkaline Road if you are interested.
However, after attending the ceremony one morning, we were left extremely disappointed with many tourists’ behaviour and lack of respect toward the monks.
If you are attending this ceremony, please follow the rules and requests of the monks; otherwise, it’s better to stay at the hotel.
I hope to do a post on my experience at the Luang Prabang Alms Giving Ceremony soon, so stay tuned for this (short rant over!)
Back to the temple itself.
I was impressed with the long wooden Naga hanging in the temple. It was enormous, and I can’t remember seeing one of that size throughout my time in South East Asia!
Vat Xieng Thong
Opening Times: 06.00 AM 0 18.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Cost: 20,000 KIP
Address: V4XV+277, Khem Khong, Luang Prabang, Laos
Vat Xieng Thong, aka the Golden City Monastery, is my favourite temple in all of Luang Prabang and the most famous.
The complex where Vat Xieng Thong is located is big.
You can enjoy the best intricate detail and architecture which the city has to offer.
This was the busiest temple I have been to, along with Phousi Temple, and you have to visit it when you are in Luang Prabang. It is guaranteed to leave you speechless!
Vat Xieng Thong was built between 1559 and 1560 by King Setthathirath.
It is known as one of the most important monasteries in Laos and remains a significant monument to the spirit of religion, royalty, and traditional art.
Its rich history and cultural significance make it an essential landmark to visit.
You can get a guide to bring you around the temple, too, to get a deeper insight into the history of the temple.
Don’t miss out on visiting the Royal Carriage House in the same complex.
See the funeral carriage of King Sisavang Vong (1885-1959), King of Luang Prabang, 1904-46, and King of Laos. It is a masterpiece of Laotian construction and architecture.
Haw Pha Bang
Opening Times: 08.00 AM –11:30 am & 1:30 PM – 4.00 PM (last entry half hour before closing)
Suggested Duration: 15-30 minutes
Cost: 30,000 KIP
Address: V4RP+MHC, Sisavangvong Road, Luang Prabang, Laos
Now, if you are searching for an eye-catching temple with grandeur, size and a real sense of spirituality, then look no further than Haw Pha Bang.
Located within the Royal Palace complex in Luang Prabang, I found it to be the best-maintained temple and one of the most impressive architecturally.
While you can only look at the entrance of the temple, you can appreciate the detail and beauty of this golden temple.
The handrails are exquisite Nagas and sparkle as you walk up the stairs.
The temple has an ornamental element consisting of 17 spires, consistent with temples throughout the country.
While the palace was constructed in 1904 when the French were active in the region, the temple was started in 1963.
The central Buddha figure is the Prabang Buddha. The Prabang was cast in Sri Lanka back in the 1st century AD, and it came to the city as a gift from the King of Khmer in 1359.
Hence, the name changed to Luang Prabang in 1560 to honour the Buddha image.
If I had to visit one temple in Luang Prabang, Haw Pha Bang would be it!
Vat Chom Si Is Located At Phousi Hill
Opening Times: 06.00 AM – Sunset
Suggested Duration: 2 hours
Cost: 20,000 KIP
Address: V4RP+3R Luang Prabang, Laos
Phousi Temple is a Buddhist temple in a stunning setting. Maybe the best Buddhist Temples in Luang Prabang?
The temple is situated on top of Phousi Hill, 328 steps up, providing visitors with a breathtaking view of the city and the Mekong River below.
Additionally, the climb to the top of the hill can be challenging but doable, and the view from the top makes it all worth the sweat.
Note – it can get busy at sunset, so there will be competition for the best seat to view the sun falling away behind the mountains.
The temple itself is nice but less attractive than the other Luang Prabang temples. Yet, it is an example of traditional Laotian architecture.
Visitors can explore the complex and admire the intricate carvings and decorations throughout.
Interestingly, the temple is also home to several important Buddhist relics, including a Buddha footprint and a golden stupa.
So you can spend time walking the paths above the city and discovering these relics around the hilltop before you get to the main attraction.
We climbed up the ascent up a zig-zag path on Kingkitsarath Road beside the Nham Khan River but made the descent down via the second route, where we arrived on the roadside right beside Haw Pha Bang on Sisavangvong Road.
Both routes are manageable for people of all fitness levels.
Find out more about navigating to Luang Prabang Railway Station in my detailed guide.
Vat Aham
Opening Times: 08.00 Am – 5.00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1 hour
Cost: Free
Address: V4PQ+X7V, Kingkitsarath Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos
Located beside Vat Wisunarat, Vat Aham is a small, hidden gem and a peaceful temple to explore with fewer tourists roaming and more locals.
Also known as the Monastery of the Blossoming Heart, this temple is one of the best temples in Luang Prabang and for good reason.
The temple is known for its unique architecture, which features two main halls and a distinctive roof design.
The temple was originally built in 1818, but it has been renovated several times over the years.
Annually, the temple hosts a large festival called Boun Ork Phansa, which marks the end of Buddhist Lent and involves colourful processions and other festivities.
Discover the best restaurants in Luang Prabang, trust me, I’ve tried many of them!
Luang Prabang Tour Options
Below are some tours which you can consider when in Luang Prabang. Some include visiting the temples in the city:
Luang Prabang Private Full-Day Tour and Lunch
Luang Prabang: UNESCO World Heritage City Highlights Tour
Luang Prabang traditional culture + cave + sunset +(Ticket)
Conclusion
That’s it, folks! We’ve just toured the best eight Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang.
If you’re coming into the city from the Luang Prabang Railway Station, I have a. full guide on that.
All in all, there are so many to see, but trust me, every single one is worth your time. They’re just full of charm and peace, and they give you a great look into the Buddhist culture that shapes this city.
There are many amazing things to do in Luang Prabang, including the temples.
If you had fun exploring Luang Prabang with me, let’s keep the adventure going in Vang Vieng. It’s a place full of stunning landscapes and adventure that you won’t want to miss.
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
Is Luang Prabang Worth Visiting?
Luang Prabang is certainly worth visiting. Besides the many amazing Buddhist temples, tourists can visit the Luang Prabang night market, enjoy the Luang Prabang nightlife and grab a coffee in one of the many Luang Prabang cafes, which are sprawled through this wonderful city.
Why Is Luang Prabang Famous?
Luang Prabang is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its temples, monasteries, and markets. The city is also known for its traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and paper-making. Additionally, Luang Prabang is home to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, which is a popular destination for tourists as well as Pak Ou Caves.
How Many Temples Are There In Luang Prabang?
According to historical records and local authorities, there are currently 33 temples located in this city. Each of these temples has its own unique design, history, and cultural significance. Visitors to Luang Prabang can take a tour of the temples and learn more about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Where To Stay In Ninh Binh: All You Need To Know
- Trang An Boat Tour: My Experience
- Is Ninh Ninh Worth Visiting: My Honest Thoughts
- 15 Things To Do In Ninh Binh
- Ta Van Village: What To Expect From Your Visit
Loved this post., Loads of useful information for visitors and it brought back happy memories of our time in Luang Prabang. We didn’t manage to spend as much time there as you did but we did get to visit some of the temples you mentioned. Vat Xieng Thong was our favourite. Very sad to hear about the lack of respect from tourists at the alms giving ceremony.
There are all really beautiful temples! I love Vat Xieng Thong’s top – the green spikey things haha. I still can’t believe that tourists are not respectful – like it’s not hard to see the significance of these temples, treat them nicely and respect others’ traditions! I’d love to visit and learn more about the traditions and the different temples.
All the temples are stunning but I think Vat Sibounheuang is my favourite. Great post full of helpful information to allow a visitor to make a short list, if they have limited time.
I always suffer second-hand shame when tourists act disrespectfully. I can’t imagine how they justify such behaviour.
Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com
Great info on the main Temples here. They are all beautiful and unique in their own way from Nagas to funeral carriages.
Laos is one of the countries I missed off in my S E Asia tour as I found it difficult to get to back 5 years ago, but I clearly have missed some wonderful sights.
It’s always difficult to chose which temples, churches, mosques to visit when one place has so many and to avoid religious site overload. These look like great choices.
Wow, 33 temples is an impressive number, and how great to see that a lot of them don’t cost anything to visit. I do enjoy exploring temples, they’re always so vibrant and full of unique carvings and details. I would happily explore many of these, until you inevitably get to the “templed out” point as in many SE Asia trips though. A good reason to save some for another day and spread out your visits – and spend longer in such a beautiful place
What a wonderful place, rich in spirituality and culture. I am always fascinated by places like this, so different from what we westerners are used to as places of worship.
Once again the post is very well organized, with extremely useful content.
I am still amazed when I hear reports of tourists who do not know how to behave when traveling. Once and for all people have to learn to respect the places they visit.
First, I haven’t been to Laos and second, there’s no excuse as to why I haven’t visited it yet. Temple visiting is one of those important ingredients to an enriching trip to southeast Asia – both culturally and spiritually. Anyone heading to Laos will find this post a helpful guide in navigating temples and tourist behavior. Thanks for taking me to Luang Prabang James. Awesome photos! #flyingbaguette
Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/
First, I haven’t been to Laos and second, there’s no excuse as to why I haven’t visited it yet. Temple visiting is one of those important ingredients to an enriching trip to southeast Asia – both culturally and spiritually. Anyone heading to Laos will find this post a helpful guide in navigating temples and tourist behavior. Thanks for taking me to Luang Prabang James. Awesome photos! #flyingbaguette
Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/
Haw Pha Bang is so beautiful! I love all the details in gold, and I agree (based on your list here) that it’s the one of the best maintained and one of the most impressive architecturally. But I do love a good climb and would probably check out Vat Chom Si, too. It’s so disappointing that some tourists couldn’t show respect and behave properly.
Temples, the churches of Asia 😀 I’m not too sure I would be engaged for all 8 temples but I can appreciate the intricate details. I particularly like the dragon symbols and decorations around the building. Ha Pha Bang would definitely be of interest to me here but also no surprise to read that it is one of the popular temples and therefore maintained well. Keep exploring James!
Carolin | Solo Travel Story