Travel Guides

That Luang (Royal Stupa)

The Royal Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism and Lao rule, and is
Laos' most important religious building. A wonderful sight for
tourists to Vientiane to behold, the dazzling golden temple and its
spire are visible from afar - and locals claim that if you have not
visited That Luang, you have not visited Laos. The base of the
stupa has walkways and stairs connecting the different levels,
designed for the faithful to climb. Each level has different
architectural features pertaining to Buddhist doctrine. Worshippers
stick balls of sticky rice to the walls as a mark of respect to the
spirit of King Setthathirat, who built the shrine in 1566 and whose
statue stands in front of the temple. The effects of the setting
sun on its golden surface are stunning. There is a lot to see in
the area and it is best to have a local guide to show you around so
that you don't miss anything and can understand the significance of
what you're seeing. Paying entrance only allows you to walk around
the stupa and you get almost as good a view from the other side of
the walls so some people prefer not to pay. The three temples that
surround it are free and you can see the golden, reclining Buddha
statue without entering. It is best to get to the site early,
before the tour buses arrive.