
Buddha Park (also known as Buddha Park), also known as Xiangkun Temple, is located on a meadow by the Mekong River . It was built by the founder Bunleua Sulilat . The park is full of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, a monument to the absurd ambitions of an eccentric man.
There are many Buddhist and Hindu sculptures densely placed inside the Xiangkun Temple, which integrate the philosophical thoughts, legends and icons of Hinduism and Buddhism into a mysterious whole. It is full of Shiva, Vishnu, Guanyin and Buddha in various forms, which is shocking.
Here, a remarkable dome-shaped pagoda stands, echoing the Wanqiao Park across the river in Nong Khai ( Thailand ). Locals call it " Heaven and Hell . " Inside the pagoda lies a wall filled with cryptic paintings and statues depicting human suffering – the so-called Hell.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Foreigners: 15,000 kip
Locals: 10,000 kip
Bringing a camera inside will cost an additional 3,000 kip
8:00-17:00
Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, was created in 1958 by the Lao mystic Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat. The park is home to over 200 statues, primarily focused on Buddhist and Hindu figures, making it a unique blend of religious symbolism. It holds spiritual significance for both locals and tourists alike, with its large Buddha statues being central to Lao cultural identity.
Buddha Park is located about 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane, Laos. It is best reached by taxi, tuk-tuk, or a rental vehicle. There is no metro system in Vientiane, and walking is not recommended due to the distance.
Buddha Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, as it’s less crowded and the weather is cooler.
The entrance fee is around 5,000 to 10,000 Lao Kip (approximately 1 USD). Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance of the park.
There is no need to book tickets in advance. Tickets can be bought on-site upon arrival.
Typically, 1 to 2 hours are enough to explore the park, depending on how much time you wish to spend on each sculpture and the surrounding gardens.
Guided tours are available in English, and audio guides can be rented at the entrance for a small fee.
Start by entering the main gate and explore the large reclining Buddha. Then, walk through the park to admire the smaller sculptures and religious artifacts. End with a visit to the top of the Buddha statue for the best views of the area.
There are no night visits or light shows available. The park is open during the day only, and there are no special tours after dark.
The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit during weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. However, food and drinks are limited within the park, so it’s advisable to bring your own water or snacks. There are some local shops near the entrance selling souvenirs.
The park is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though the terrain may be challenging in certain areas due to uneven paths. There are no specific facilities for disabled visitors, so some parts of the park might be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues.
Cash is required for entrance fees and most local purchases, as cards and mobile payments are generally not accepted in the park or nearby areas.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the park, but there are several options nearby in Vientiane, including local Lao eateries and international food spots.
There are vegetarian and vegan options available in nearby restaurants, as well as halal food at certain establishments in Vientiane.
There are several hotels in Vientiane, ranging from budget to mid-range. Options include the Lao Plaza Hotel and Settha Palace Hotel, which are relatively close to the park.
There are souvenir shops near the park selling traditional Lao handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and statues of Buddha.
From Buddha Park, taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental cars are the most convenient options to continue your trip to other attractions in Vientiane.