Lao temples are among Southeast Asia’s most spiritual and culturally rich landmarks. From the royal monasteries of Luang Prabang to the sacred stupas of Vientiane, Laos is home to ancient Buddhist temples that showcase Lao architecture, history, and living religious traditions.

This guide covers 10 famous Lao temples, including opening hours, entrance fees, and essential visitor information for tourists.

1. Pha That Luang (Vientiane)

Pha That Luang, also known as the Great Stupa, is the most sacred monument in Laos. The tall, gold-covered structure represents the nation's identity and its Theravada Buddhism. It was first built in the 3rd century and rebuilt in the 16th century after being destroyed in a war. It has been rebuilt several more times since then. Visitors can walk around the terraces, see the lotus-tip spires, and explore the surrounding monasteries. If you go early in the morning, you'll see the views without the crowds.

Location: Tip of Luang Prabang peninsula.

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

2. Buddha Park (Vientiane)

Buddha Park, also called Xieng Khuan, is an outdoor sculpture park located along the Mekong River. A Lao-Thai spiritual leader built the park in 1958. It has more than 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, including a 40-metre reclining Buddha. Travellers can explore monumental sculptures, including reclining Buddhas, deities with multiple heads, and demons that represent different ideas. There is a hollow tower shaped like a pumpkin that visitors can climb to the top for great views. Buddha Park is a great place to take photos and learn about the culture.

Location: 25 km southeast from Vientiane

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

3. Wat Xieng Thong (Luang Prabang)

Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang is one of Laos's most beautiful monasteries. It is a UNESCO-recognized heritage monument. It was built by King Setthathirath in 1560. It is considered a masterpiece of classical Lao architecture. Its low, sweeping rooflines, rich gilded decoration, and elaborate mosaics show the royal patronage and artistic craftsmanship behind it. The Sim (the place where religious orders are chosen) has gold decorations and a famous Tree of Life mosaic on the back wall.

Location: Tip of Luang Prabang peninsula.

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Approx. 30,000 LAK

4. Vat Phou (Champasak, Southern Laos)

Vat Phou is an ancient Khmer temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between the 6th and 12th centuries, the temple predates Angkor Wat. The complex includes terraces, reservoirs, and sanctuaries aligned with sacred mountains. Vat Phou Festival in February features processions, music, and flag-raising rituals. Plan to visit early to avoid heat, as the walk between terraces can be long.

Location: Muang Champassak

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. Wat Si Saket (Vientiane)

Wat Si Saket, built in 1818, is the oldest surviving temple in Vientiane. It houses more than 6,800 Buddha images, collected over centuries. The cloister walls display rows of seated Buddhas, creating a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Its architecture blends Lao and Siamese styles, reflecting regional influence during the period. Visitors can observe traditional Lao architecture blended with Siamese influences.

Location: Lan Xang Road, Vientiane.

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Entrance Fee: Approx. 30,000 LAK

6. Pak Ou Caves (Luang Prabang)

The Pak Ou Caves, which are north of Luang Prabang, consist of two limestone caves. They are filled with thousands of Buddha statues. These statues have been left by pilgrims over the centuries. The caves are next to the Mekong River and you can get there by boat. The Upper Cave has steep stairs, but if you go up them you will find some peaceful prayer chambers. Bring a torch or use a phone to see in the dark.

Location: 25 km north of Luang Prabang

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

7. Wat Si Muang (Vientiane)

Wat Si Muang is known as the spiritual heart of Vientiane. Local legend says the temple spirit protects the city. Many Laotians visit to pray for good fortune, health, and prosperity. The annual That Luang Festival includes rituals involving Wat Si Muang. Travelers can witness traditional offerings, Lao music, and cultural processions.

Location: 15 Rue Bourichane, Vientiane

Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free

8. Wat Aham (Luang Prabang)

Wat Aham, meaning "Monastery of the Opened Heart," is near Mount Phou Si in Luang Prabang. In the past, it was a place where people practised animism and Buddhism. Its guardian spirit shrines and 19th-century murals show how local beliefs and Theravada Buddhism in Laos came together.

Location: Kingkitsarath Road, Luang Prabang

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free

9. Wat Manorom (Luang Prabang)

Wat Manorom has one of the oldest bronze Buddha statues in Luang Prabang. It is from the 14th century. It contains a huge bronze Buddha from the Lan Xang era, which makes it an important historical place. The brick and stucco viharn shows the early Lao way of making things. The temple has been rebuilt several times, but it still has great cultural importance and is a peaceful place where you can think and meditate. Visitors can walk through quiet gardens full of frangipani trees.

Located: Outside the centre of Luang Prabang

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

10. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham (Luang Prabang)

This is Luang Prabang's largest and most decorated temple. It is known as Wat Mai and is located near the Royal Palace. The building was built around the late 1700s and restored in the 1800s. It is famous for its roof, which has five tiers, and its gilded bas-relief panels. These panels show scenes from the Ramayana, an ancient Indian story. The temple was the home of the head of the Lao Buddhist order. During the Lao New Year, the sacred Phra Bang Buddha statue is brought here for ceremonial washing.

Located: Near the Royal Palace

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Conclusion

Laos has many different kinds of Buddhist temples, from gold-covered stupas to hidden cave shrines. Each temple shows what the local people believe, the art they have, and their spiritual practices. Visitors should respect local customs, dress modestly, and follow the rules of the temple. Visiting these holy places will teach you about Lao history and Buddhist culture.