10 Things to Do in Wat Visounnarath, Luang Prabang, Laos
Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Luang Prabang in Laos, Wat Visounnarath is one of the most beautiful and important Buddhist temples in the country. Built in 1513, Wat Visounnarath is the oldest temple in Luang Prabang and is home to a number of important artifacts, including the Prabang Buddha, which dates back to the 16th century. Here are 10 things to do in Wat Visounnarath that will make your visit to this majestic temple even more memorable.
1. Explore the Prabang Buddha - The Prabang Buddha is the centerpiece of Wat Visounnarath and is a must-see for any visitor to the temple. The statue is a representation of the Buddha seated in meditation and is believed to have been crafted in the 16th century. It is one of the most important artifacts in the temple and is a stunning sight to behold.
2. Learn about the history of the temple - Wat Visounnarath is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang and has a fascinating history. The temple was built in 1513 by King Setthathirath and was originally dedicated to his father, King Visoun. It is believed that the temple was destroyed by fire in 1887 and was later rebuilt in the early 20th century.
3. Admire the architecture - Wat Visounnarath is renowned for its stunning architecture, which is a blend of traditional Lao and French colonial styles. The temple features a large central stupa, which is topped with a traditional Lao roof, and is surrounded by a series of smaller stupas and shrines. The temple is also adorned with intricate carvings and colorful mosaics, making it a truly breathtaking sight.
4. Visit the museum - Wat Visounnarath is home to a small museum, which houses a number of important artifacts and works of art from the temple’s history. The museum is a great place to learn more about the temple and its history, as well as admire some of the beautiful artifacts on display.
5. Attend a traditional ceremony - Wat Visounnarath is a popular place for traditional ceremonies, which are held on important Buddhist holidays. If you’re lucky enough to be in Luang Prabang when one of these ceremonies is taking place, it’s definitely worth attending.
6. Enjoy the views - Wat Visounnarath is located on a hill, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The temple is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
7. Take part in a blessing ceremony - Wat Visounnarath is a popular place for locals and tourists alike to receive a blessing from the monks. The blessing is believed to bring good luck and prosperity, and is a great way to experience the spiritual side of the temple.
8. Visit the sacred tree - Wat Visounnarath is home to a sacred tree, which is believed to be over 500 years old. The tree is a popular place for locals and tourists alike to make offerings and pray for good luck and fortune.
9. Explore the gardens - The temple is surrounded by a number of lush gardens, which are a great place to take a stroll and admire the beautiful flowers and plants. The gardens are also home to a number of statues and shrines, making them a great place to explore and learn more about Buddhism and Lao culture.
10. Shop at the local market - Wat Visounnarath is located near a bustling local market, which is a great place to pick up souvenirs and local handicrafts. The market is also a great place to sample some of the delicious local cuisine, which is sure to make your visit to the temple even more memorable.
Wat Visounnarath is a must-see for any visitor to Luang Prabang. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and important artifacts, the temple is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Laos. Whether you’re looking to explore the temple’s history, attend a traditional ceremony, or simply admire the views, Wat Visounnarath is sure to be a memorable experience.