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Buddha Park
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Landmark
Buddha Park, locally referred to as Wat Xieng Khuan, is a captivating outdoor collection of over 200 religious sculptures situated on the banks of the Mekong River near Vientiane. Established in 1958 by Bunleua Sulilat, an eccentric mystic and artist, the park reflects a unique synthesis of Buddhist and Hindu ideologies. Though the statues are constructed from reinforced concrete, their weathered patina gives them an ancient, centuries-old appearance. Notable highlights include a massive 40-meter-long reclining Buddha and a giant, pumpkin-shaped structure featuring three levels that symbolize hell, earth, and heaven. Visitors enter this structure through the mouth of a demon and can climb internal stairways to the roof for a panoramic view of the entire sculpture garden. The surreal and often bizarre depictions of deities, mythological creatures, and anthropomorphic figures make it a one-of-a-kind artistic destination. Despite its name, it is not an active temple but a public park dedicated to religious art.
- Location: Laos
- Top sights: ຈັດສີຣັຕດະນາຣາມ ທ່າເດື່ອ · Phrathat La Nong · Phra That La Nong (copy)
- Nearby: Nam Ngum Reservoir (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 24 | 27 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 7 | 16 | 40 | 66 | 189 | 202 | 261 | 300 | 219 | 87 | 16 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khuan) is an unusual sculpture park along the Mekong River, open to visitors. Over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues are scattered across the grounds.
Typical hours
The park is typically open daily from 8:00 to 17:00. Last entry is usually shortly before closing.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park and gives many original subjects. Especially the giant reclining Buddha statue is a popular photo spot.
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for a walk through the park. Viewing all statues may take longer depending on interest.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a boat ride on the Mekong or a trip to Vientiane. The nearby Ban Done market is also worth a visit.
Getting there
Buddha Park is about 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane and reachable by bus or taxi. The journey takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit the park early in the morning to avoid the heat and get better photos. Bring plenty of water, as there is little shade on site.
Geography
Facts
- The park was founded in 1958 and is located right on the border with Thailand.
- The name 'Xieng Khuan' can be translated as 'Spirit City' in the Lao language.
- Bunleua Sulilat later built a similar park called Sala Keoku across the river in Thailand.
- The statue of Lord Indra riding the three-headed elephant Erawan is a major highlight.
- The pumpkin-shaped building stands approximately six meters high.
- All sculptures were handcrafted by unskilled laborers under Sulilat's direct supervision.
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Sights in the town Buddha Park (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who created Buddha Park?
The park was designed in 1958 by the shaman and mystic Bunleua Sulilat.
What religious motifs can be found in the park?
It contains over 200 Hindu and Buddhist concrete sculptures depicting gods, demons, and animals.
What is the most bizarre structure in the park?
A giant walk-in 'pumpkin' with three levels symbolizing hell, earth, and heaven.
Where exactly is the park located?
About 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane, right on the banks of the Mekong across from Thailand.
How much time should be planned for a visit?
About 1 to 2 hours are sufficient to see all the sculptures at your leisure and take photos.
Buddha Park: where is it located?
Buddha Park is located in Laos.
Buddha Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include ຈັດສີຣັຕດະນາຣາມ ທ່າເດື່ອ, Phrathat La Nong, Phra That La Nong (copy).
Buddha Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Buddha Park: why is it worth visiting?
Buddha Park, locally referred to as Wat Xieng Khuan, is a captivating outdoor collection of over 200 religious sculptures situated on the banks of the Mekong River near Vientiane.
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