Pha That Luang in Vientiane

 

Vientiane is the capital of Laos, and one attraction that tourists simply cannot miss is the stunning golden structure known as Pha That Luang—a Buddhist stupa that stands as a national symbol of Buddhism and Lao sovereignty.

The image of Pha That Luang can be found on the 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000,and 100,000 kip banknotes, as well as on the national seal used for official documents.

Pha That Luang is located in the northeastern part of Vientiane, about 5 kilometers from Chao Anouvong Park and approximately 2.5 kilometers from the Patuxay Monument.

In the Lao language, “Pha That Luang” means “Great Sacred Stupa.” It was reconstructed in 1566 after King Setthathirath established Vientiane as the new capital.

The architecture of Pha That Luang consists of three levels:

The first level serves as the foundation and includes 30 small stupas, each covered with golden plates and inscribed with words related to the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism.

The second level has a curved roof shaped like lotus petals.

The third level features a tall, slender spire.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Pha That Luang was originally built as a small stupa during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, around the late 12th or early 13th century.

Pha That Luang is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha’s breastbone. Every year, during the full moon of the Lao month of Thatluang (November), the That Luang Festival is held for one week. During this time, thousands of Buddhist devotees and monks gather for religious ceremonies.

If you plan to visit Vientiane during this period, make sure to book your hotel in advance, as the city becomes very crowded.

Currently, visitors can enter the inner part of Pha That Luang for a small entrance fee. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Tourists can reach Pha That Luang from downtown Vientiane by tuk-tuk, taxi, or motorbike in just 10 to 15 minutes.