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Visit the iconic That Luang Stupa, an important symbol of Buddhism and Lao culture. Explore the surrounding temple complex, admire the intricate architecture, and take time to reflect at the peaceful meditation areas. The site is ideal for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. You can also learn about its historical and spiritual significance through local guides.
That Luang ( lPha That Luang ) is located to the north of Wat That Luang, north of Vientiane, the capital of Laos. It was originally a part of Wat That Luang, but because its importance far exceeds that of this temple, people usually only call it That Luang. It is a Buddhist holy place in Laos.
The beautiful golden Pha That Luang is Laos' most important national monument. It represents both Buddhism and the Laotian sovereign state, and is considered a national treasure. It serves as a center of worship for both Lao Buddhists and the general public. The main pagoda even appears on the national emblem. Pha That Luang has undergone numerous restorations, ensuring its preservation to this day.
The base of the pagoda is designed to allow believers to climb up, and each floor has passages and stairs. The corridor is 85 meters long on each side and houses various Buddha statues.
The best time to visit is in the evening, when you can enjoy the sunset reflected on the tower.
As a Buddhist holy place, it is regarded as a sacred place in the hearts of the Lao people. The That Luang Festival is held here every November . It is the largest folk temple fair and the most solemn and grand religious festival in the country.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
5000 kip
Tuesday to Sunday 8:00-12:00, 13:00-17:00, closed on Monday
That Luang is the most important religious monument in Laos, dating back to the 3rd century. It is said to house a relic of the Buddha. The gold-covered stupa symbolizes the unity of Laos and its Buddhist heritage, serving as a national symbol of Lao sovereignty and religious devotion.
That Luang is located in the capital city of Vientiane, Laos. It is accessible by taxi, tuk-tuk, or local buses. Walking is an option for those staying nearby, as the site is located in the central part of the city.
That Luang is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee is approximately 10,000 LAK (Lao Kip). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate upon arrival. It is not necessary to buy tickets online.
There is no need to book tickets in advance. You can purchase them on the spot as the attraction does not usually require advanced reservations.
Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the stupa, temple complex, and surrounding grounds. If you wish to participate in a guided tour or engage in spiritual reflection, you may want to allocate more time.
The main highlight is the golden That Luang Stupa itself, surrounded by a large courtyard and smaller temples. Visitors should also explore the surrounding gardens and admire the fine details of the stupa's architecture.
Guided tours in English and Lao are available. Audio guides are not typically offered, but local guides provide excellent information about the stupa's history and significance.
The best photography spots are around the stupa, particularly from the surrounding courtyards and platforms. Early morning or late afternoon light creates beautiful shots of the golden stupa. The reflection of the stupa in the pools also offers great photo opportunities.
Start at the entrance gate, then walk around the stupa, exploring the surrounding temples and statues. Don't forget to take time to visit the gardens and the meditation areas. End your visit by sitting near the stupa for quiet reflection.
That Luang does not offer night visits or light shows. The stupa is best visited during the day to appreciate its full grandeur, although the site is beautifully lit at night from the outside.
That Luang can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays. The afternoon is also less crowded compared to peak hours.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, a small gift shop, and places to buy water. There are no large restaurants on-site, but small eateries are located nearby.
The site is accessible for elderly and children, although there are some steps leading up to the stupa. For disabled visitors, the site may present challenges due to uneven ground and stairs, but the surrounding areas can still be explored with ease.
Cash is preferred, but some small shops near the site may accept mobile payments or cards. It's best to carry local currency, especially for smaller purchases.
There are several local restaurants and cafes around the That Luang area, offering traditional Lao food, including noodle soups, grilled meats, and rice dishes. Popular nearby eateries include local market stalls and small cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, but a few eateries in Vientiane cater to Muslim dietary needs.
There are several hotels near That Luang, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. The area around the city center offers a variety of hotels that are a short drive from the stupa.
Nearby attractions include the Patuxai Monument, the Buddha Park, and the COPE Visitor Centre. All of these are easily reachable and can be combined into a day trip from That Luang.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near That Luang where visitors can buy traditional Lao handicrafts, including silk scarves, wooden carvings, and jewelry. Buddhist-themed items are popular as well.
Taxis and tuk-tuks are the best options to continue your trip after visiting That Luang. You can also rent a motorbike if you're comfortable navigating the city on your own.
