Wat Wisunarat
Wat Wisunarat things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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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 enriching setting.
The Compass GuyThe Compass Guy
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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 site of a pond.
Yves Jacques (Ban Houay Hay Lao P.D.R.)Yves Jacques (Ban Houay Hay Lao P.D.R.)
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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 08:00 to 17:00.
My Way ProductionMy Way Production
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Wat Wisunalat is the oldest Prabang’s oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang. It was originally built in 1503 during the reign of King Wisunarat. It represents the original style of Lao temple architecture. This temple is very unique and in my opinion the best one in Luang Prabang. It has very unique statues of Buddha, many ancient statues, artefacts. Some were found lying at the back, some are in the process of renovation, I guess. There are many wooden artefacts, sculptures, which are very unique and beautiful. It's a must visit place in Luang Prabang.
Soudamini MohapatraSoudamini Mohapatra
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We are staying near by to this temple and overhead symbols being played around 5pm. We decided to go in and see what was happening. Lucky for us we managed to enter the temple as the young training Buddhas entered to chant so we entered whilst they chanted for about 1 hour before leaving and it was the most moving experience they offered us water as we sat at the back of the ceremony and felt included. Once we left we took some amazing pictures of the grounds it was truly beautiful. Recommend a visit even if you feel apprehensive like we did at the beginning
PaulaPaula
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Wat Wisunarat, also known as Wat Visoun, is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang, Laos. Known for its unique architectural style, the temple features a distinct stupa called That Makmo or "Watermelon Stupa," which has a rounded dome shape. The serene atmosphere, beautiful Buddha images, and rich history make Wat Wisunarat a peaceful and culturally enriching place to visit while exploring Luang Prabang. If you enjoy visiting historical sites and learning about local culture, this temple is a must-see.
Kitsada SaleumxayKitsada Saleumxay
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Nearby Attractions Of Wat Wisunarat
Luang Prabang Night Market
Phousi Hill
Royal Palace & National Museum
Royal Palace
Luang Prabang morning market
UXO Lao Visitor Center
Dara Market
Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Garden of Eden Luang Pra Bang
Wat Wisunarat
Luang Prabang Night Market
4.3
(2.4K)Click for details
Phousi Hill
4.3
(2.4K)Click for details
Royal Palace & National Museum
4.1
(1.3K)Click for details
Royal Palace
4.1
(891)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Wat Wisunarat
Saffron Coffee
Manda de Laos
Popolo, Restaurant
Utopia Bar & Restaurant
BOUANG Asian Eatery
Dyen Sabai Restaurant
Two Little Birds Cafe
Tangor Restaurant Bar & Lounge
Khaiphaen
La Silapa Italian & Lao Kitchen
Saffron Coffee
4.6
(896)$$
Click for details
Manda de Laos
4.6
(724)$$$
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Popolo, Restaurant
4.6
(602)$$
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Utopia Bar & Restaurant
4.3
(592)$$
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Basic Info
Address
V4PQ+XF9, Luang Prabang, Laos
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4.4
(307 reviews)
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attractions: Luang Prabang Night Market, Phousi Hill, Royal Palace & National Museum, Royal Palace, Luang Prabang morning market, UXO Lao Visitor Center, Dara Market, Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, Garden of Eden Luang Pra Bang, Wat Wisunarat, restaurants: Saffron Coffee, Manda de Laos, Popolo, Restaurant, Utopia Bar & Restaurant, BOUANG Asian Eatery, Dyen Sabai Restaurant, Two Little Birds Cafe, Tangor Restaurant Bar & Lounge, Khaiphaen, La Silapa Italian & Lao Kitchen
