Luang Prabang, Laos is dotted with Buddhist temples or Wats (or Vats) especially the Old Town area. The combination of Wats and French colonial buildings and it’s harmonious relationship with the natural environment that surrounds the city made Luang Prabang a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Here are some of the Wats that I’ve seen in my entire stay in Luang Prabang.
Vat Mounena Somphouaram
Vat Xiengthong
Vat Hosian Voravihane
Vat Souvannapoumaram
Vat Xiengmouane Vajilamangaram
Vat Visounarath
Vat Nong Sikhounmuang
Vat Sop Sickharam
Vat Choumkhongsourintharame
Vat Manorom
Vat Siphouthabat Thipparam
Vat Wataphay
Five Tips to Survive Temple Hopping in Luang Prabang, Laos
1. Rent a Bike: It would be faster to see a lot of temples by renting a bike, although walking is also a nice option.
2. Bring a Bottled Water: Stay hydrated while hopping from one temple to another.
3. Take your Time: I’m not a fan anymore of “see them all” mentality. Take your time and soak up the entire experience.
4. Respect: Ask permission before you take a picture of a monk. Do not disturb them if they’re meditating. ‘Nuff said.
5. Don’t Leave Your Trash: You might find yourself eating your baguette sandwiches along the way or eating some snack or puffing a stick of your cigarette, please take your trash with you and don’t leave them on the temple grounds. Better yet, throw them in a trash bin.
Enjoy your trip!
beautiful pics!
The Vat Xieng Thong complex is one of the most enchanting in Laos.
Makes me wish I had made it to Laos. I didn’t have enough time while I was in Southeast Asia to see everything. Very beautiful Wats.
These are great tips! Luang Prabang is certainly not a city worth rushing nor is Laos a country that encourages ‘hurrying up’ in any way, shape or form