Wat Xieng Thong, A Sanctuary of Serene Magnificence
Soulignavongsa Road, Th Sisavang Vatthana Old Town
4.3
Introduction
Wat Xieng Thong is a temple located in Luang Prabang, Laos, which was built by the local king in 1560 as a royal private property. The temple is situated near the Mekong River, in the northeastern part of the old town of Luang Prabang. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most beautiful, magnificent, and famous temples in Luang Prabang. It showcases the classic architectural style of Luang Prabang temples and sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
The roof of the main hall is designed in the typical Luang Prabang style, with three layers that almost touch the ground. The front wall and pillars of the main hall are black with gold embellishments, which are exquisitely done. The back wall of the main hall is adorned with a lifelike "Tree of Life," and next to it is a red chapel with intricate mosaic murals on its exterior wall. The temple also houses a funeral hall with a 12-meter-high funeral carriage decorated with golden dragon heads and royal urns containing the ashes of the royalty. There are also beautiful smaller temples and multiple pagodas within the temple complex.
The entire temple exudes an exotic charm, evoking a sense of awe and reverence. Today, Wat Xieng Thong has become an important venue for celebrating the Laotian New Year. Address Soulignavongsa Road, Th Sisavang Vatthana Old Town
Transportation Xiangtong Temple is located near the northern end of the peninsula formed by the impact of the Mekong River and Nankang River. If you have time, it is only a 20-minute walk from the city center or a TuTu ride costs approximately 5,000 Laotian Kip per person.
The wall is decorated with patterns of the Tree of Life
