[2025 Vientiane Attraction] Travel Guide for Haw Pha Kaew (Updated Feb)

Vientiane is probably the most controversial city in Laos. People seem to either love it or hate it. Those who like it think it's more fun than Luang Prabang, while those who don't think even half a day is too long to spend there. But you have to experience it for yourself to know how you feel. As the capital, Vientiane is a bit of a "rural-urban fringe," but compared to Luang Prabang, it is indeed a big city, so it doesn't have that laid-back and leisurely vibe. It's bustling with traffic (of course, you can also find a café on French Street and sit there for an afternoon), and some attractions are far apart. We stayed for a day and a half and felt that it wasn't enough time. 🥭One-day itinerary That Dam - Wat Sisaket - Wat Ho Phra Keo - Wat Xieng Khuan - Pha That Luang - Wat Si Muang - Patuxay - Night Market/French Street 🥭Travel tips Staying in the area from the Presidential Palace to the Mekong River is the most convenient because it's the embassy district. You can walk to the city's attractions and night markets, and famous restaurants are also concentrated there. It's considered the most upscale area in Vientiane. There's a beautiful graffiti wall on the side of the US Embassy near That Dam. The most worthwhile temple to visit in Vientiane is Wat Sisaket, one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. The cloister is filled with Buddha statues from the 11th to 19th centuries, with different shapes and materials, spanning a long period. Wat Ho Phra Keo, diagonally opposite Wat Sisaket, is also worth a visit. The famous Emerald Buddha in the Thai Royal Palace was taken from here. Taking a taxi to and from Wat Xieng Khuan is very expensive, but you can take Bus 14, which costs 18,000 kip (over 5 RMB) one way. It runs every half hour, departing from Central Bus Station on the hour/half-hour, and from across the street from Wat Xieng Khuan at 20/50. On the return trip, it stops at the border crossing to Nong Khai, Thailand, for 20 minutes. The best time to visit Pha That Luang is around 3 or 4 pm when the lighting is particularly good. The fountain at Patuxay only operates in the evening, but it closes at 5 pm, so you can't go to the top. Tickets for Wat Sisaket, Wat Ho Phra Keo, Pha That Luang, and the top of Patuxay cost 30,000 kip, and tickets for Wat Xieng Khuan cost 60,000 kip. Pha That Luang is closed on Mondays. The Vientiane Night Market is just a retail market for small goods, and you can't buy handicrafts there. You should buy souvenirs at the Luang Prabang Night Market. Currency exchange in Vientiane is not as convenient as in Luang Prabang. Banks and shops close after 5 pm, but you can ask the hotel front desk. Some have pretty good exchange rates.

Here's a City Walk route in Vientiane, Laos. These nine places are really interesting! Here's my two-day itinerary: Day 1: That Luang—Wat Si Saket—45 International Shooting Range—Patuxai—That Dam Day 2: Wat Si Muang—Wat Phra Kaew—French Street—Mekong River Night Market 📸｜Check-in 1⃣️Patuxai XJC9+7C3 P.D.R, Vientiane Vientiane's landmark, very spectacular 2⃣️That Luang and Wat Si Saket That Luang, Xaysettha 10009 That Luang 40,000 Lak; Wat Si Saket free entry 3⃣️Wat Si Muang (Buddha Park) Deua, Thanon Tha, Vientiane Far from the city center, suitable for a morning visit There are many uniquely shaped Buddha statues here Like a scene from the game "Temple Run" 4⃣️Wat Phra Kaew: XJ66+MJC, Vientiane Museum with many Buddha statues and artifacts 5⃣️Mekong River Night Market: XJ72+MMV, Quai Fa Ngum, Vientiane This night market is worth a visit, it gets lively from sunset, there are many snacks and handicrafts to eat and shop 6⃣️That Dam 140 Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane 7⃣️45 International Shooting Range Somsanga, Vientiane Shooting range with live ammunition, large scale and full range of firearms 8⃣️French Street: After visiting the Mekong River Night Market, you can walk along the street slowly There are many coffee shops during the day and many snacks at night 🚗｜Transportation ①You can use inDrive to hail a taxi in Vientiane, it's very fast (other methods are slower) ②Remember to negotiate the price with the driver before taking a tuk-tuk, Vientiane basically uses cash, remember to exchange money in advance💰

#passionpassport Haw Phra Kaew is a former temple in Vientiane, Laos on Setthathirath Road, to the southeast of Wat Si Saket. The interior now houses a museum and a small shop while the exterior is stunning facade with high red and gold beams as what you can see in the photos. The temple housed the Emerald Buddha figurine, which Setthathirath had brought from Chiang Mai, then the capital of Lanna, to Luang Prabang. This temple-museum is definitely worth the visit for its beautiful collection of Buddhist artefacts, the most extensive collection in the country. You have to pay an entrance fee of 10,000 kip but taking photos is prohibited inside. Like all religious and cultural sights in Laos, modest attire is required. No bare shoulders or thighs.

🍁 Although the Jade Buddha Temple was built in the Qing Dynasty, it has the architectural style of Song Dynasty temples. It mainly includes the Main Hall and the Jade Buddha Building. The Jade Buddha in the Jade Buddha Building is 1.95 meters high and is carved from a whole piece of jade. 🍁When you step into the Jade Buddha Temple, the hustle and bustle of the city seems to be isolated by an invisible barrier, and your body and mind are instantly enveloped by a solemn, peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. 🍁 The Jade Buddha Temple has started to thank and worship Tai Sui. There are many pilgrims and tourists. As soon as you enter the door, you can see red lanterns with the word "Fu" hanging everywhere. It is full of the atmosphere of the New Year. Every time I come to this pure land, my soul can find rest and comfort.

Sisters! 6-day trip to Laos, enjoy Vientiane and Luang Prabang! A super detailed guide is here to help you explore the Laos style easily~ / 🏃Travel route: Day 1: Mount Phushi Walk alone on Mount Phusi to appreciate the scenery of Laos and enjoy the quiet time. Day 2: Kuang Si Waterfall->Luang Prabang Palace->Xiangthong Temple Explore the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfall, visit the historic Luang Prabang Palace, and experience tranquility at Xiengthong Temple. Day 3: Tannan Cave Explore Tannan Cave and feel the mysterious charm of nature. Day 4: Arc de Triomphe -> Temple of the Emerald Buddha Visit the landmark Arc de Triomphe and then go to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to appreciate Buddhist culture. Day 5: Laos Sacred Tree Private Museum-Xiangkun Temple Visit the Private Museum of Laos Sacred Trees to learn about the local culture, and then visit the Xiang Khun Temple to experience the peaceful atmosphere. Day 6: Vientiane-Boten (High Speed ​​Rail) Take the high-speed train from Vientiane to Boten to end your pleasant trip to Laos. / Must-visit attractions: Arc de Triomphe ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: P.D.R, XJC9+7C7, ວຽງຈັນ, Laos - Opening hours: 08:30-17:00 - Play time: 1 hour - A symbol of Laotian style architecture, you can get a panoramic view of the city by climbing to the seventh floor, don’t miss it! Guangxi Waterfall ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: PXXR+QQV, Ban Long - Opening hours: 8:00-17:00 - Play time: 2-3 hours - There is a fairyland-like blue pool with cascading waterfalls, which is perfect for taking pictures! Pusi Mountain ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Luang Prabang Ancient Town, on Sisavangvong Road, opposite the Royal Palace Museum) - Opening hours: 6:00-19:00 - Play time: 1-2 hours - Want to watch the beautiful sunrise and sunset in Luang Prabang? Just come to Puxi Mountain, the view is amazing! / Must-haves before traveling: 🧳 When traveling to Laos, these items are essential! 📞Phone cards and network cables are necessary to stay connected and connected. 🔌You must bring a plug adapter, so you don’t have to worry about adaptation issues when charging. 🪪Passport and visa are ready, and entry and exit will be smooth. 👕Short-sleeved, long trousers and a jacket, the weather in Laos is suitable in November. 🔋Charger and mobile power supply, you can play with full power and peace of mind. 💊Carry commonly used medicines with you to make your healthy travel more secure. Remember to prepare these essential items in advance, and your trip to Laos will be more enjoyable and smooth! 🌟In addition, don’t forget to apply for your Laos visa in advance! 📖 / More hidden ways to play and explore food in Laos are waiting for you to discover! Follow me and start a fantastic journey in Laos together!

Here's a travel guide for Vientiane: • Preparation: • Visa: Laos offers visa-on-arrival for Chinese citizens. You can apply for a visa at the Lao airport. Please prepare your passport and photos. • Flight/Train Tickets: Choose a suitable flight or train to Vientiane based on your departure city. • Hotel: Book your hotel in Vientiane in advance. It's recommended to choose a hotel in the city center or near attractions for convenient travel. • Currency: The currency of Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK). You can exchange some local currency at banks or airports in China. You can also use credit cards or Alipay for electronic payments. • Other Items: Prepare appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and medicine based on the season and your personal needs. • Itinerary: • Day 1: Arrive in Vientiane - Lao National Museum - Patuxai - Mekong River Night Market • Morning: After arriving in Vientiane, check in at your hotel and take a rest. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near your hotel and try Lao dishes such as sticky rice and grilled fish. • Afternoon: Visit the Lao National Museum to learn about Lao history and culture. • Evening: Visit Patuxai and enjoy the night view. Then, have dinner at the Mekong River Night Market and try local snacks. Buy souvenirs. • Day 2: That Luang - Wat Sisaket - Wat Ho Phra Keo • Morning: Visit That Luang, one of the most famous temples in Laos and a national symbol. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near the temple and try traditional Lao dishes such as laap (Lao salad) and Tom Yum soup. • Afternoon: Visit Wat Sisaket, an ancient temple with many precious Buddha statues and relics. • Evening: Visit Wat Ho Phra Keo, a temple with a jade Buddha. The temple has exquisite architecture and is very popular. • Day 3: Wat Si Muang - Shopping in Vientiane • Morning: Visit Wat Si Muang, a temple that combines Hinduism and Buddhism. The temple has many unique Buddha statues and sculptures. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near the temple and try Lao dishes such as grilled meat and stir-fried noodles. • Afternoon: Go shopping in Vientiane and buy Lao handicrafts and souvenirs. • Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant in the city center and try Lao dishes such as Lao beer and sticky rice. • Day 4: Vientiane - Departure City • Morning: Have lunch at a restaurant near your hotel and try Lao dishes such as sticky rice and grilled fish. • Noon: Depart for the airport or train station and take a flight or train back to your departure city. • Attractions: • Lao National Museum: Showcases Lao history, culture, and art. It's one of the best places to learn about Laos. • Patuxai: One of the iconic landmarks of Laos with a strong French style. • That Luang: One of the most famous temples in Laos and a national symbol. • Wat Sisaket: An ancient temple with many precious Buddha statues and relics. • Wat Ho Phra Keo: A temple with a jade Buddha. The temple has exquisite architecture and is very popular. • Wat Si Muang: A temple that combines Hinduism and Buddhism. The temple has many unique Buddha statues and sculptures. • Mekong River Night Market: One of the most bustling night markets in Vientiane with various foods, handicrafts, and souvenirs. • Food Recommendations: • Sticky Rice: Lao's traditional staple food, usually served with grilled meat and grilled fish. • Grilled Fish: One of Lao's specialties. The fish is tender and delicious. • Laap: Lao salad, usually made with vegetables, fruits, and meat. Served with a special sauce. • Tom Yum Soup: One of Lao's traditional dishes. It's sour, spicy, and very appetizing. • Lao Beer: Lao's specialty beer. It's refreshing and has a low alcohol content. • Precautions: • Respect local religious and cultural customs. Follow temple regulations. • Pay attention to personal belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables in crowded places. • Pay attention to food hygiene. Avoid eating unclean food and drinking raw water. • Pay attention to sun protection and moisturizing. Lao has a hot climate and strong sunshine. • Follow local traffic rules and pay attention to traffic safety. The above guide is for reference only. You can adjust and arrange it according to your interests and time. Have a pleasant trip in Vientiane, Laos!

#Laos Travel Guide 15: Many people are familiar with the Jade Buddha Temple in Bangkok, but they do not know that Bangkok's Jade Buddha was enshrined in the Jade Buddha Temple in Vientiane, Laos for 218 years before it was taken to Bangkok. [Guide]Free admission, closes at 4pm. The main hall houses a large Buddha and small Buddha statues from various eras, but photography is not allowed. Walk west from Ximeng Temple for 15 minutes to reach Wat Haw Pha Kaew on the south side of the road. The Setthathirath Palace was ordered to be built by the King of Saitatila in the Lan Xang Kingdom in 1565, located on Setthathirath Street in Vientiane. It is mainly used to enshrine the jade Buddha statue brought from Luang Prabang. The Jade Buddha is a rare treasure, originally kept in the Kingdom of Chiang Mai. In 1547, King Setthathirath of Luang Prabang ruled over Chiang Mai and brought it back to Luang Prabang. In 1560, King Setthathirath ordered the construction of a temple to house the Jade Buddha after moving his capital to Vientiane. In 1778, the Siamese (Thai) army invaded Laos and took the Jade Buddha to Bangkok where it remains to this day. In 1829, the Jade Buddha Temple was burned down by war. In 1936, the government of the Kingdom of Laos rebuilt the Jade Buddha Temple, and in 1987, the government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic designated the Jade Buddha Temple as a national cultural relic museum. During the Water-Splashing Festival, on the way to the temple, the clothes of someone who has traveled to 40 countries were splashed wet by passersby (one must not get angry, as water has a blessed meaning). They went to the mall to buy a T-shirt, but it got splashed wet again. #Laos Travel Guide 16: "The Museum of Ten Thousand Buddhas in Laos - Wat Xieng Thong" is located opposite the Jade Buddha Temple. It is a larger temple built in 1818 according to the command of the last monarch of the Lan Xang Kingdom, King Anouvong. Wat Xieng Thong is magnificent, incorporating various architectural arts and decorated with gold, silver foil, and colored glass, which is amazing. The main hall houses a golden Buddha weighing 40,000 taels, and there are more than 10,000 Buddha statues of various sizes collected from all over Laos in the surrounding courtyard and corridor, some of which are over 1,200 years old. It is known as the "Museum of Ten Thousand Buddhas" in Laos. The temple was restored by the French from 1924 to 1930. [Guide]Free admission, closes at 17:00. The black tower in the courtyard is the tomb of a high monk and also the place where people must splash water during the Water-Splashing Festival.

The Jade Buddha Temple is a precious treasure of the entire Buddhist world and was once stored in Chiang Mai. Because of the war in Chiang Mai at the time, Jade Buddha was temporarily stored here. Today, the replica of the Jade Buddha is enshrined in the main hall, although photographs are not allowed. However, through the sacred decoration around the temple, you can also feel the respect of the temple. The landmark building in Laos, located in the heart of Laos, is surrounded by a clean and tidy square. It is a group of tower buildings and has a reputation for architectural art. The tower is square, gray brick structure and unique in architectural style.