10 Things to Do in Wat Si Thammarat, Xieng Khouang, Laos
Xieng Khouang is a province in Laos that is known for its lush natural beauty and its abundance of cultural and historical sites. Wat Si Thammarat is one of the most important of these sites, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of Laos. Located in the heart of Xieng Khouang, Wat Si Thammarat is a temple complex that dates back to the 15th century and is home to a number of fascinating attractions. Here are 10 things to do in Wat Si Thammarat to get the most out of your visit.
1. Explore the Temple Complex: Wat Si Thammarat is a sprawling temple complex that is home to a number of different temples, shrines, and other buildings. The most important of these is the main temple, which is dedicated to the Buddha and is the oldest structure in the complex. Other temples in the complex include the Phra That temple, which is a shrine to the guardian spirit of the area, and the Viharn temple, which is a large hall used for Buddhist ceremonies.
2. Visit the Museum: The Wat Si Thammarat Museum is located within the temple complex and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the region. The museum features a number of artifacts, including ancient stone inscriptions, sculptures, and pottery, as well as a collection of traditional costumes and textiles.
3. Take a Boat Ride: The temple complex is located on the banks of the Nam Ngum River, and visitors can take a boat ride along the river to explore the area. The boat ride is a great way to take in the scenery and get a closer look at the temple complex.
4. Sample Local Cuisine: Wat Si Thammarat is located in the center of Xieng Khouang, and the area is known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes, including Lao-style sticky rice, spicy salads, and grilled meats.
5. Shop for Souvenirs: Wat Si Thammarat is a popular destination for tourists, and there are a number of souvenir shops in the area that sell traditional handicrafts, textiles, and other items.
6. Learn about Buddhism: Wat Si Thammarat is an important Buddhist site, and visitors can learn about the religion by visiting the temple complex. The complex is home to a number of shrines and statues, as well as a large library of Buddhist scriptures.
7. Visit the Waterfalls: Wat Si Thammarat is located near a number of waterfalls, and visitors can take a hike to explore the area. The waterfalls are a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
8. Take a Cooking Class: Wat Si Thammarat is a great place to learn how to cook Lao-style dishes. Visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes, such as sticky rice and spicy salads.
9. Go Bird Watching: The area around Wat Si Thammarat is home to a variety of birds, and visitors can take a bird watching tour to spot some of the local species.
10. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Wat Si Thammarat is located near a hot air balloon launch site, and visitors can take a hot air balloon ride to get a bird’s eye view of the area.
Wat Si Thammarat is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the history and culture of Laos. From exploring the temple complex to taking a hot air balloon ride, there are a number of things to do in Wat Si Thammarat that will make your visit unforgettable.