Wat Wisunarat — Attraction in Luang Prabang

Wat Visounarath, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Luang Prabang, offers a peaceful and historical atmosphere that captures the essence of Laos’ spiritual heritage. Built in 1513 by King Visoun, the temple is known for its distinctive architecture, including a large, domed structure that stands out among other temples in the city.

The temple has had its share of historical events, including damage during the Siamese invasion in the 19th century, but it was later restored. Today, it remains an important place for locals and visitors alike, with a serene ambiance that is perfect for quiet reflection. Inside, you’ll find a mix of traditional Buddhist statues and artwork, including a striking, ancient wooden Buddha.

What truly sets Wat Visounarath apart is its historical significance and beautiful preservation, making it a must-visit for those interested in Lao history and culture. It’s located near the heart of Luang Prabang, easily accessible, and offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of this UNESCO World Heritage town.

Highly recommended for those wanting to explore the deep cultural roots of Luang Prabang in a tranquil and...

Le Vat Visounnarat & le That Makmo. Construit en 1513 le Vat Visounnarat serait l'un des temples les plus anciens de Luang Phabang s'il n'avait été entièrement brûlé par les troupes du Pavillon Noir (Hos). Aujourd'hui le temple est reconstruit, mais ne ressemble guère à l'original, car l'ancien devait être entièrement en bois. Le temple conserve encore une très belle collection de Bouddhas de toutes les époques. Dans l'enceinte du temple se dresse un imposant stupa, le that Pathum, plus communément appelé That Makmo (" stupa pastèque ") en raison de sa forme ronde. Il fut reconstruit en 1895 après avoir été détruit et pillé par les Hos qui trouvèrent en son sein des petits bouddhas en métaux précieux. Le Vat Visounnarat (1503 et complètement refait en 1898)(Nom : Le monastère de l’éclair du roi Vixun) Particularités : Il s’agit d’un temple-musée. Le Phabang y resta de 1513 à 1707. Aspect simple avec un toit à 2 niveaux. Fenêtres à balustres de style khmer. Dans son enceinte, on trouve un arbre Bo dont la souche provient de Ceylan (1939). A son entrée, un pilier des éléphants est parfaitement conservé. Le That Makmo (1504 et rénové en 1898)(Nom : Le stupa du Vénérable Lotus. Son surnom est le stupa de la pastèque) Particularités : Il fait 35m de haut. Les petits stupas, à sa base, représentent les 4 points cardinaux et les 4 éléments. Le style est clairement d’influence cinghalaise. Il est construit sur l’ancien emplacement d’un étang.

Wat Visounnarat & That Makmo. Built in 1513 Wat Visounnarat would be one of the oldest temples of Luang Phabang if he had been burned by the troops of Black Flag (Hos). Today the temple is rebuilt, but bears little resemblance to the original, because the former was to be entirely of wood. The temple still retains a great collection of Buddhas of all times. Inside the temple stands an imposing stupa, Pathum that, more commonly referred That Makmo ("watermelon stupa") because of its round shape. It was rebuilt in 1895 after being destroyed and looted by the Hos who found in it small Buddhas in precious metals. Wat Visounnarat (1503 and completely rebuilt in 1898) (Name: The monastery of lightning King Vixun) Special features: This is a temple museum. The Phabang remained there from 1513-1707. Simple appearance with a roof with 2 levels. Windows balusters Khmer style. In its enclosure, there is a Bo tree, the strain comes from Ceylon (1939). On entry, a pillar of elephants is perfectly preserved. The That Makmo (1504 and renovated in 1898) (Name. The stupa of Venerable Lotus His nickname is the watermelon stupa) Special features: It is 35m high. Smaller stupas, at its base, representing the four cardinal points and the four elements. The style is clearly influenced by Singhalese. It is built on the former...

Wat Visounarath is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang, built in the year 1512, during the era of King Visounarath. The temple has a Tai Leu style two-level split roof unlike many other temples in the city. In front of the sanctuary is the famous Pathum (lotus flower) stupa. Locals refer to it as the “watermelon stupa” as looks like a watermelon sliced in half. It was built by the wife of King Visounarath in a Sri Lankan style. This ancient temple is also a repository for ancient art and objects. Displayed inside are gold, wooden, and sandstone Buddhas over 400 years old, and carved inscription stones from the 15th century. Open daily from...