[2025 Luang Prabang Attraction] Travel Guide for Vat Visounarath (Updated Mar)

Wat Visounnarath was founded in 1512 during the reign of King Visounnarath. It is considered a symbol of the unity of the kingdom. The carved wooden balustrades on the windows of the temple resemble those of Wat Phou Champasak in southern Laos. Inside the temple, visitors can walk around and admire ancient statues and stone inscriptions. Within the temple grounds, there is a stupa called That Pathum, also known as That Makmo (Watermelon Stupa), which is shaped like a watermelon.

#celebratewithtrip Vat Visounarath (or Wat Visoun ) is the Luang Prabang oldest Buddhist Temple. It was first built built in 1513 with Lao architecture style in the reign of King Visounarat and it also was once home to the Prabang Buddhas. Beside the Temple, there are also a huge white stupa calla Pha That Mak Mo( Watermelon stupa) which now it is one of the most beautiful stupa amongst stupas in Luang Prabang. Address- Ban Visoun, visounarath Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos #urbanexplorer #luangprabang #buddhism #historicculture

Wat Visounnalat located at Visoun marathon Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos . It was Built in 1512 or 1513, rebuilt again in 1896-98 originally built by King Wisunarat and the temple was more Luang Prabang architecture styles. This style also includes the sims of other old temple such as Wat May, and it is also one of the oldest temple which is operating in Luang Prabang. Another important and prominent feature of the wat is its unique That MakMo, or Stupa of the Great Lotus, in the front and northeastern side of the sim. Whit rounded dome shape, so it might be only one stupa of such a shape in Laos and this is migh be the first attract you to enter and visit it Entrance free of charge open time: 8:00am - 18:00pm #culturalattractions#historicculture#historicallandmarks

Beyond the famous Wat Xiang Tong, Luang Prabang is home to many smaller, charming temples that you might stumble upon during a city walk. These hidden gems offer a more intimate experience compared to the crowded tourist spots. Here's a summary of the temples I visited: 1. Wat Xiang Tong 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 The most popular temple with an entrance fee of 20,000 Kip. It's a must-visit for its stunning beauty. The entrance can be tricky to find, so head through the small alley from the main street. 2. Wat Visounnarath 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Highly recommended for its historical significance, with an entrance fee of 20,000 Kip. The main hall houses various exhibits with English explanations. There's a seated monk in a glass case, possibly a preserved body, which might be startling at first. Also, there's a charming statue of a Chinese-origin god of wealth. 3. Wat Siphoutthabath 🌟🌟🌟🌟 A small temple with adorable pig wind chimes. Though not as well-maintained as larger temples, its weathered doors and windows exude a rustic charm. 4. Wat Pa Phai 🌟🌟🌟 Known for its unique entrance and murals, though the interior is quite ordinary. I was greeted by two relaxed dogs lounging on the temple steps. 5. Wat Nong Sikhoumuang 🌟🌟 Located opposite Elephant Cafe, this temple features a beautiful orange roof but is not open to the public. 6. Wat Sensoukharm 🌟🌟🌟 A lavish temple on the main street with adorable lion statues at the entrance. I witnessed locals asking monks to recite scriptures. 7. Wat Sop Sickharam 🌟🌟 Notable for its unique blue-green spire, a rare color combination in Luang Prabang temples. #LuangPrabangTravel #LuangPrabangTemples #LuangPrabang

Vat Visounrath temple