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Pha That Luang
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Landmark
Pha That Luang, known as the 'Great Golden Stupa,' is the most significant national monument and the ultimate symbol of Lao sovereignty. Located in the heart of Vientiane, its current structure was established in 1566 by King Setthathirath following the relocation of the capital from Luang Prabang. Legend asserts that the site was originally occupied by a 3rd-century BCE shrine built to house a sacred relic of the Buddha. The architecture is distinctly Lao, diverging from Thai or Burmese styles; its massive square base is ringed by 30 smaller stupas representing the perfections of Buddhist virtue. The entire exterior is gilded with genuine gold leaf, creating a radiant glow in the sunlight. Throughout its history, the monument suffered extensive damage during foreign invasions, most notably by the Siamese in 1828, but was meticulously restored during the French colonial period. Today, it serves as the centerpiece for the Boun That Luang festival, the nation's largest religious gathering, held every November.
- Location: Laos
- Top sights: People's Security Museum · Memorial of President Souphanouvong · Kaysone Phomvihane Museum
- Nearby: Nam Ngum Reservoir (17 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 | 25 | 28 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 13 | 35 | 62 | 168 | 170 | 203 | 246 | 204 | 85 | 16 | 6 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Pha That Luang is open to visitors daily, with an entrance fee for the inner courtyard. The exterior and grounds are free to view.
Typical hours
The complex is typically open from early morning until late evening, but the inner area often closes for a few hours at noon. Inquire locally for exact times.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout, but be respectful. The golden stupa is most striking in the late afternoon sunlight.
Time needed
A visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you explore the surrounding park. Allow extra time for the nearby Patuxai as well.
Combine with
Combine the visit with other Vientiane attractions such as Patuxai Arch and Wat Si Saket. These are nearby and within walking distance.
Getting there
Pha That Luang is located in central Vientiane, accessible by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or on foot from the Mekong riverfront. Most hotels also offer organized tours.
Insider tip
Visit the stupa in the late afternoon for golden light and a remarkable sunset. Combine the visit with a stroll to the nearby night market.
Geography
Facts
- The stupa reaches a total height of 45 meters and is enclosed by a high perimeter wall.
- The square base of the lowest level measures 69 meters on each of its sides.
- An estimated 450 kilograms of gold leaf were used to gild the entire structure.
- Pha That Luang is featured prominently on the official national emblem of Laos.
- An original Ashokan pillar is said to be enshrined deep within the central structure.
- King Setthathirath originally built four temples around the stupa, two of which remain.
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Sights in the town Pha That Luang (15)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Pha That Luang the national symbol of Laos?
It is considered the most important Buddhist monument in the country and symbolizes Lao sovereignty.
How much gold was used for the plating?
The stupa is covered with real gold leaf, with estimates suggesting several hundred kilograms were used.
Is there a major festival at this location?
Yes, the Pha That Luang Festival takes place every November during the full moon and attracts thousands of pilgrims.
How high is the central stupa?
The large golden stupa reaches a height of about 45 meters and is visible from afar.
Is entry to the inner area allowed?
Visitors can enter the walled courtyard for a fee, but access to the stupa itself is not possible.
Pha That Luang: where is it located?
Pha That Luang is located in Laos.
Pha That Luang: what is there to see?
Highlights include People's Security Museum, Memorial of President Souphanouvong, Kaysone Phomvihane Museum.
Pha That Luang: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Pha That Luang: why is it worth visiting?
Pha That Luang, known as the 'Great Golden Stupa,' is the most significant national monument and the ultimate symbol of Lao sovereignty.
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