Luang Prabang Temple Guide: What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Laos?

I visited Luang Prabang in 2022, and the capital of the ancient Laotian kingdom was slowly recovering from the rampage of COVID-19. The misty mornings were special, with hundreds of monks walking through the narrow streets with their alms bowls. 

People gather and offer fruits and rice to the monks. The monks silently accept the offerings, then quietly return to the temples. 

Even today, with skyrocketing tourism numbers, Luang Prabang remains one of the most unspoiled places on earth. Buddhism and a strong belief in the power of nature have helped the city to maintain its authentic charm. 

Also, the 32 Buddhist temples present in Luang Prabang today are a telltale of the history, myths, and spiritual beliefs associated with the city’s origin. In this Luang Prabang temple guide, I will talk about the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang Laos.

Of course, the Golden City Temple or Wat Xieng Thong is the most famous among them. It was built in 1560. 

What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Luang Prabang Laos? 

What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Luang Prabang Laos

As the mornings in Luang Prabang are special with the quietude and humility of the alms giving ceremony, the evenings are magical with the evening chants of the monks in the temples. 

The sound of the chants echoes through the valley with the Mekong River passing by dreamily and the outlines of the mountains fading into the darkness. 

I used to get lost in my thoughts that these temples were the sites of the coronation of many Laotian kings. Also, despite their intricate designs, they look like an extension of the ethereal natural landscape here. 

Nevertheless, these are the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang, Laos. 

1. Wat Xieng Thong

Wat Xieng Thong

Also known as the “Monastery of the Golden City,” Wat Xieng Thong evokes awe. Built in 1560, it is home to the famous reclining Buddha Sanctuary or the Red Chapel. 

It also stands out with its architectural excellence, including the multi-tiered roofline and beautiful mosaic work. 

2. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham

Wat Mai, or the New Temple, is the largest in Luang Prabang. It looks exquisite with the gilded bas-relief panels on the façade. 

Also, it is historically important as it served as the residence of the highest Lao Buddhist dignitary till 1975. 

3. Wat Visounnarath (Wat Visoun)

Wat Visounnarath

Wat Visoun has a distinctive, spherical, and unique stupa called “That Mak Mo” or the “Watermelon Stupa.” It has a rounded shape. 

Also, Wat Visounnarath was founded in 1512. So, today, it is the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang. 

4. Wat Aham

Wat Aham is also known as the Monastery of the Open Hearted. It is located next to Wat Visoun. 

Wat Aham is famous for its two ancient banyan trees on its grounds. Locals believe that these trees are home to the guardian spirits of the city. 

5. Wat That Luang

Wat That Luang

Locals call Wat That Luang the Monastery of the Royal Stupa. The ashes of King Sisavang Vong, who died in 1959, are present in the golden stupa in the temple grounds. Even before that, it was used to cremate many members of the royal family. 

6. Wat Chom Si

Wat Chom Si

Located on the top of Mount Phousi, Wat Chom Si was the best temple I visited in Luang Prabang. The spiritual energy there was so high. 

I don’t know whether it’s the joy of reaching the temple after a trek or the magical views of the Mekong River from the top! Everything looks and feels so magical here!

7. Wat Sop Sickharam

Wat Sop Sickharam

The structure of the Wat Sop Sickharam temple, what we see today, is the renovated form of the 19th century. However, the origin of the temple goes back to the 16th century. 

Its architecture is a wonderful fusion of the French Colonial Style and traditional Lao architecture. 

8. Wat Pa Phai

Wat Pa Phai

The congregational hall or the traditional Lao-style sim is the highlight of Wat Pa Phai. Furthermore, its facade is unique with exterior columns and a verandah. 

It also has another name, “The Monastery of the Bamboo Forest.” 

9. Wat Sene Souk Haram

Wat Sene Souk Haram

Wat Sene Souk Haram looks dazzling with its golden and red ornamentation. It is known as the Temple of 100,000 treasures, as it was built with 100,000 stones collected from the Mekong River in 1718. 

10. Wat Nong Sikhounmuang

Wat Nong Sikhounmuang

Wat Nong Sikhounmuang has recently gone through a major renovation. It is home to one of the largest and richest pagodas in Luang Prabang. 

Furthermore, you can spot it from a distance due to its vibrantly colored roof in the traditional Thai style. 

11. Wat Khili

The large gold Wheel of Life on the front gable of Wat Khili will be the first thing to catch your notice. Furthermore, it has low roofs and a red facade with golden columns. 

It shows influence from the Xieng Khouang province and was built in 1773. 

12. Wat Phon Phao

Wat Phon Phao

Wat Phon Phao has a unique octagonal structure, and with the sunlight falling over it, it uses its golden glow to illuminate the city. 

The paintings in the interior of this temple are beautiful, and they depict the Buddhist philosophy of life and death. 

13. Wat Manorom

Wat Manorom

Wat Manorom is home to a 6-meter-high bronze Buddha statue, which dates back to the 14th century. Apart from being a temple, it is also an important community center for the locals. 

In fact, all the temples in Luang Prabang help nurture community bonding. Also, historically, it used to be the home of the largest number of monks. 

14. Wat Ho Pha Bang (inside Royal Palace)

Wat Ho Pha Banginside Royal Palace

The Wat Ho Pha Bang, or the Temple of the Pha Bang, houses the Phra Bang Buddha image, the palladium of Laos. 

This temple is located inside the Royal Palace grounds. 

15. Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat was founded in 1548. It houses the ashes of the revered Prince Phetsarath, who declared the independence of Laos in 1945. 

It also has a highly ornamented facade. 

16. Wat Xieng Mouane

Wat Xieng Mouane is important for its role in promoting traditional art and culture. Furthermore, I loved the gilding and traditional woodwork in the temple. 

17. Wat That Phoun

Wat That Phoun

Wat That Phoun is one of the most peaceful temples I have visited in Luang Prabang. Also, once you enter the temple, it’s like an art gallery with a wonderful display of paintings. 

The entrance gates are adorned with serpent deities or Nagas, and the temple also functions as a cremation location. 

18. Wat Long Khoun

Wat Long Khoun is where our kings once meditated. It’s quiet, sacred, and often overlooked.” – Somsack, my local guide. 

This former royal meditation retreat is a wonderful example of Lao architecture in the 18th century, and it has the most illustrious Jataka murals, depicting the last lives of Lord Buddha. 

19. Wat Phra Bat Tai

Wat Phra Bat Tai in Luang Prabang is very similar to Prabhas Tirtha in India. Prabhas Tirtha has the footprints of Lord Krishna, and War Phra Bat Tai has a huge footprint of the Buddha. 

Furthermore, its architectural style shows a wonderful fusion of Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese architectural styles. 

It is also where I found it the easiest to interact with the monks and share our philosophies about life. 

20. Wat Phon Heuang

The traditional stenciling on the temple’s ceiling instantly evoked a sense of awe. Furthermore, I saw how it is an important social area or hub for the local community. It is so because it is one of the prime locations for participating in the alms-giving ceremony. 

In addition, when I visited, it had not been extensively renovated. So, it was like connecting to the past for me. 

Wat Xieng Mouane: The Lesser-Known Temple Of Luang Prabang 

Wat Xieng Maen is a hidden gem if I talk about the top temples to visit in Luang Prabang. It was founded in 1592. 

I took a ferry across the Mekong River to reach this temple. It is a quiet escape, and it is significant as it was home to the famous Phra Bang Buddha image for a short period. 

Accessibility Ratings Of The Best Temples In Luang Prabang 

Check out the table below to know about the most accessible Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang. 

TempleWheelchair AccessStairsQuiet Zones
Wat Xieng ThongMinimal
Wat MaiFew steps
Wat VisounRamp available
Wat AhamFlat terrain

Photography Tips

  • Golden Hour: 6:00–7:00 AM and 5:00–6:30 PM.
  • Best Angles: Capture rooflines from low angles; use temple doorways for framing.
  • Respectful Shots: Avoid interrupting rituals or photographing monks without consent.
  • Gear: Use a wide-angle lens for interiors and a tripod for low-light shots.

Temple Etiquette & Dress Code In Luang Prabang

  • Dress Modestly: Shoulders and knees covered. Avoid tight or revealing clothing.
  • Remove Shoes: Always take off footwear before entering the temple interiors.
  • Avoid Pointing Feet: Never point your feet toward Buddha statues or monks.
  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing monks or rituals.
  • Alms Giving: Participate respectfully in morning alms (Tak Bat) by kneeling and remaining silent.

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang?

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang’s temples are open year-round, but timing enhances the experience:

MonthHighlights
November–FebruaryCool, dry weather is ideal for walking tours.
Mar–MayHot but less crowded and good for early morning visits.
June–OctoberRainy season, and it stands out with its lush greenery and fewer tourists.

Best Time of Day To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang 

  • Sunrise: Wat Chom Si after a climb to Mount Phousi
  • Midday: Wat Mai, with its shaded interiors, is the perfect late morning and afternoon refuge. 
  • Sunset: Wat Xieng Thong is ideal for golden hour photography. 

Walking Routes & Maps: Exploring The Best Temples Of Luang Prabang 

Visiting all the temples in Luang Prabang is not possible in a single visit to the city. Instead, for a short trip to the city, you can follow these temple tour routes. 

1. Temple Trail Route (2–3 Hours)

      • Start at Wat Xieng Thong. 
      • Walk to Wat Sop Sickharam. 
      • Continue to Wat Sene. 
      • Visit Wat Mai. 
      • End at Wat Visoun.

      2. Sunset Spiritual Loop (1 Hour)

        • Climb Mount Phousi to Wat Chom Si.
        • Descend to Wat Aham.
        • Finish at Wat That Luang.

        Luang Prabang Temple Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

        Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang temple guide. 

        1. How Many Temples Are In Luang Prabang?

        Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has 32 operational Buddhist temples. These temples with their beautiful murals, paintings, and sculptures depicting the life and lessons of Lord Buddha, are prominent social, religious, and community centers. 

        Furthermore, they show a wonderful fusion of Lao, Thai, and Khmer architectural styles in their architecture. 

        2. Can I Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang During Festivals?

        Yes, you can visit the temples in Luang Prabang during major festivals such as Boun Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, and Boun Khao Phansa, or the start of the Buddhist Lent. 

        However, you have to be patient as there will be crowds, and you have to follow the etiquette.

        3. Are Women Allowed To Give Alms?

        I found out that people taking part in the alms-giving ceremony were mostly women. However, my guide told me to follow some strict rules. 

        You cannot touch the robes of the monks or make any physical contact with them. Also, you must kneel down before them while offering the alms. 

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        Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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It leads to the Wasson Peak, the highest spot in the Saguaro National Park.  Along with scenic beauty, the rocks of various formations will grab your attention throughout the trail.  Sendero Esperanza Trail Distance: 3.2 miles Sendero Esperanza Trail hiking is a little arduous thanks to the constant ascends and descends. However, it is one of the most beautiful trails in the park.  Cam-Boh Trail Distance: 2.7 miles  Cam-Boh Trail works as a connection between the eastern and western trails of Tucson Mountain District. Further, it is a favorite of hikers for its connectivity to many hiking loops. You can also enjoy a horse ride through the trail.  Ringtail Trail Distance: 1 mile Ringtail Trail connects you to many other trails on the eastern side of the Tucson Mountain District. The trail can get moderately steep.  Sweetwater Trail Distance: 3.4 miles  If you want to visit the Wasson Peak from the east of the Tucson Mountains, you will have to take the Sweetwater Trail.  The trail starts at  El Camino del Cerro Road’s western end.  Cactus Wren Trail  Distance: 1.5 miles  This one-way trail stretches to the Signal Hill Picnic Area, a favorite of localities for family trips. You can start your journey from the “Sandario Road and Rudasill Road” corner.  You will see many desert washes on the trail.  Short Walks And Nature Trails In Tucson Mountain District The short walks and nature trails of the national park will make you familiar with the local ecosystem. Get ready to explore the following trails replete with various cacti.  Cactus Garden Trail - 100 yards Desert Discovery Trail - 0.5 miles Valley View Overlook Trail - 0.8 miles Signal Hill Petroglyphs Trail - 0.5 miles Organpipe Cactus, Pink Hedgehog, and Claret Cup Cactus are some of the most popular cacti species found across these trails.  Final Words  Saguaro National Park had more than 1 million (1,010,906) visitors in 2023. The easy trails with the best scenic views and the diversity of cacti here consistently attract visitors to this park. In the last five years, the park has welcomed more than a million visitors three times.  Perri Spreiser, the district ranger for interpretation at Saguaro’s Rincon Mountain District, has rightly said, “We are no longer a small park.”  The increasing popularity of the park has left a positive impact on the local community. They are proud of the park and ensure that everything is quiet and serene in the park. The park owes much of its popularity to the pristineness of its beauty. The local community does not want to ruin it. Do you want to explore beautiful desert trails, and are you a cacti-enthusiast? It’s time to pack your back and take a drive to the land of saguaros. Or have you already been to this wonderful national park that was designated in 1994? Don’t forget to share your experience with us.  Saguaro National Park FAQS  Is Saguaro National Park Worth Seeing? Yes, Saguaro National Park is worth seeing, as you can see the most amazing cactus and saguaros here. The place has a distinct rugged charm with flat desert and rocky mountains.  You can hike through the trails and enjoy the most beautiful Sunset views in the park.  How Many Trails Are In Saguaro National Park? Saguaro National Park has as many as 78 trails spreading across 200 miles. A combination of flat deserts and rocky mountains, Saguaro National Park, is a great place for hiking with family and beginners.  What Is The Most Scenic Trail In Saguaro National Park? Hugh Norris trail leading to the Wasson Peak, the highest point of the Tucson Mountains District of Saguaro National Park, is the most scenic trail.  You have to travel through a dense forest, and as you advance toward the peak, you will find a rocky landscape. You can enjoy an expansive view of the Sonoran Desert as you explore through this trail.  Opuntia, echinocereus, and barrel cacti are the most amazing cactuses found on this trail.  What Is The Best Place To See Sunset In Saguaro National Park? Saguaro National Park West is the best place to see the Sunset. You can enjoy the most beautiful view from Gates Pass, which is at the western end of Speedway Boulevard.  In Saguaro National Park East District, the Sunset looks most beautiful as you explore the  Tanque Verde Ridge trail. Javelina Rocks pull-out is another great spot to watch Sunset in the East District.  How To Spend One Day In Saguaro National Park West? A day in Saguaro National Park West will be filled with activities. Camping and hiking are the most adventurous activities here to explore.  The Tucson Mountain District is on the west side, and your trip to the west starts with the Red Hills Visitor Center. The west side of the national park has many cacti and large saguaros.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.