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Wat Aham
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historical-site
Wat Aham, meaning 'The Monastery of the Opened Heart,' is a prominent Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang with deep historical and spiritual significance. It was constructed in 1818 during the reign of King Manthaturath on the site of a much older 14th-century sanctuary. The temple is intricately linked to the worship of Luang Prabang's guardian spirits, Pu No and Na No, whose shrines were once located within its grounds. In the mid-19th century, Wat Aham served as the residence of the Sangkharat, the Supreme Patriarch of Lao Buddhism, reflecting its high status within the religious hierarchy. The architecture of the Viharn is understated yet elegant, featuring a triple-tiered roof and interior murals depicting moral lessons and Buddhist cosmology. Two massive, ancient banyan trees standing in the courtyard are believed to be the dwelling place of spirits and are deeply revered by the local community. Together with the adjacent Wat Wisunarat, the temple forms a central hub for religious activities in the city.
- Location: Laos
- Top sights: UNESCO World Heritage Monument · ວັດພູຄວາຍໂພຄາຣາມ · ວັດບຸບຜາວິປັສນາຣາມ (ປ່າຫຍ້າທຶບ)
- Nearby: Kasi (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 6 | 31 | 62 | 121 | 116 | 219 | 234 | 127 | 56 | 23 | 12 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Wat Aham temple is open to visitors and can be explored both inside and outside. Entry is free, donations for maintenance are welcome.
Typical hours
The temple is typically open from sunrise to sunset, typical for Buddhist temples in Laos. Monks are often out early morning for alms rounds.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but in prayer halls do so carefully without flash. Respect monks when photographing and ask for permission.
Time needed
Half an hour is enough to see the small temple and the surrounding gardens. Combined with the nearby Wat Mai, you can comfortably plan an hour.
Combine with
Combine Wat Aham with the neighboring Wat Mai and the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang. The morning market along the Mekong is also just minutes away.
Getting there
Wat Aham is located in central Luang Prabang, about a 5-minute walk from the Royal Palace. Most accommodations in the old town are within walking distance, a bicycle is a good alternative.
Insider tip
Visit the temple in the late afternoon when the light beautifully highlights the old stucco work. A small donation in the box helps the community.
Geography
Facts
- The current temple was completed in 1818, replacing an earlier structure from 1394.
- Two guardian figures at the entrance represent Hanuman and Ravana from the Ramayana.
- The massive banyan trees on the grounds are over 100 years old and considered sacred.
- The interior walls feature vivid depictions of Buddhist hell and various moral tales.
- The temple served as the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of Laos until 1894.
- Wat Aham is located directly adjacent to Wat Wisunarat, the city's oldest temple.
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Sights in the town Wat Aham (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Wat Aham mean?
The name means 'Monastery of the Opened Heart', indicating its spiritual character.
Why is this temple known for spirit worship?
Two large banyan trees stand on the grounds where, according to legend, the guardian spirits of Luang Prabang dwell.
What historical role did Wat Aham play?
It was once the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of Lao Buddhism before he moved to Wat Mai.
Can murals be seen inside?
Yes, the walls are decorated with colorful scenes from the Jataka tales and depictions of Buddhist hells.
How is the atmosphere compared to Wat Xieng Thong?
Wat Aham is significantly quieter and less touristy, making it well-suited for meditation and reflection.
Wat Aham: where is it located?
Wat Aham is located in Laos.
Wat Aham: what is there to see?
Highlights include UNESCO World Heritage Monument, ວັດພູຄວາຍໂພຄາຣາມ, ວັດບຸບຜາວິປັສນາຣາມ (ປ່າຫຍ້າທຶບ).
Wat Aham: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
Wat Aham: why is it worth visiting?
Wat Aham, meaning 'The Monastery of the Opened Heart,' is a prominent Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang with deep historical and spiritual significance.
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