Wat That Khao — Attraction in Vientiane Capital

Travelling along Quia Fa Ngum into the centre of the city, Wat That Khao is the first Buddhist temple you will pass. What strikes you first is the golden painted entrance gate with a view towards the statue of the Buddha in a meditative sitting posture, with legs crossed and his hands resting on his lap. This posture symbolises the Buddha's enlightenment.... What is interesting here is that the two protective Nagas have their feet resting on the steps leading up to the statue. Behind the Ordination Hall, which is usually closed to lay people is a large statue of the Reclining Buddha. This is a quiet and tranquil place and little visited by tourists. The resident dogs are friendly and there are chickens running around the...

I am not one to leave a bad review unless I feel a need to warn fellow tourists. Do not visit Wat That Khao because it seems the dogs rule the area. I am usually okay with the odd stray dog but 3 chased me right out of the site, the worst of it was the monks just sat and watched ( as they fed the dogs) and were definitely not concerned…very disrespectful and very rude. It’s too bad because the area has a great cultural history and it is in need of repair and the dogs are dangerous to...

A lovely chill spot to appreciate nature and around Buddhist religion. Don’t expect something spectacular but if you decide to visit, simply enjoy the real vibes of this place that has not been “taken over” by tourism. Many people mention the dogs and roosters presence; yes they are there, it seems that the monks breed chickens and feed the dogs but none of the animals are aggressive or annoying (if anything, we found the doggos...