Wat Tham Xon Pakse in Laos is an ancient Buddhist temple complex and a popular tourist attraction. Located in the city of Pakse, Wat Tham Xon is home to many beautiful and historic religious monuments. Here are 10 things to do in Wat Tham Xon Pakse to make your visit to this wonderful place even more memorable.
1. Visit the Main Temple – The main temple of Wat Tham Xon is one of the oldest in the city and is a must-see for any visitor. The temple features traditional Lao architecture, with its main entrance guarded by two giant statues of Naga, the mythical serpent. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate carvings and murals that adorn the walls and ceiling.
2. Explore the Caves – Wat Tham Xon is home to several caves, each with its own unique story to tell. The most popular of these is the Tham Xon Cave, which is believed to be the birthplace of the temple and is home to a large reclining Buddha statue. Other caves include the Tham Xon Cave, the Tham Khone Cave, and the Tham Pha Cave. All of these offer unique sights and experiences, and are definitely worth a visit.
3. Visit the Monasteries – Wat Tham Xon is home to several monasteries, each with its own unique atmosphere. The most popular of these is the Wat Tham Xon Monastery, which is home to a large collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts and statues. Other monasteries include the Wat Tham Xon Monastery, the Wat Tham Khone Monastery, and the Wat Tham Pha Monastery. All of these offer visitors a chance to learn more about Buddhism and its history.
4. Take a Boat Tour – One of the best ways to explore Wat Tham Xon is by taking a boat tour. These tours offer visitors the chance to see the temple complex from the water and admire the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Boat tours can also be arranged to take visitors to other nearby attractions, such as the Pakse Waterfalls and the nearby Mekong River.
5. Attend a Festival – Wat Tham Xon hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Pha Muang Festival and the annual Songkran Festival. These festivals are great opportunities for visitors to experience the traditional culture of Laos and to witness the vibrant celebrations of its people.
6. Go Shopping – Wat Tham Xon is home to several markets and shops, where visitors can find a variety of souvenirs, traditional crafts, and other items. These markets are great places to pick up a few souvenirs to take home with you.
7. Visit the Museum – Wat Tham Xon is home to a museum, which houses many artifacts and religious objects related to Buddhism and the history of the temple complex. The museum is open daily and is a great place to learn more about the history of the temple and the culture of the people of Laos.
8. Enjoy the Nightlife – Wat Tham Xon is home to several bars and clubs, which offer visitors the chance to experience the vibrant nightlife of the city. These bars and clubs are great places to meet locals and to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city.
9. Take a Cooking Class – Wat Tham Xon is home to several cooking classes, which offer visitors the chance to learn how to prepare traditional Lao dishes. These classes are great opportunities for visitors to learn more about the local cuisine and to get a taste of authentic Lao cuisine.
10. Take a Hike – Wat Tham Xon is surrounded by lush forests and hills, making it a great place for a hike. Visitors can explore the area and take in the stunning views of the nearby countryside. There are several trails to choose from, so visitors can find one that suits their skill level.
No matter what you choose to do in Wat Tham Xon Pakse, there is something for everyone. From exploring the caves and monasteries to attending festivals and taking cooking classes, the possibilities are endless. So, make sure to make the most of your visit to this beautiful temple complex and experience all that it has to offer.