Things to Do in Pha That Luang, ປະເທດລາວ

Pha That Luang, located in Vientiane, Laos, is the most sacred Buddhist monument in the country and serves as the national symbol of Laos. This magnificent golden stupa, dating back to the 3rd century but rebuilt in the 16th century, stands 45 meters tall and is believed to contain a relic of Buddha. The complex is surrounded by beautiful temples and courtyards, making it a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from across Southeast Asia. As the spiritual heart of Laos, Pha That Luang represents the fusion of Lao and Khmer architectural styles, with its distinctive golden spire visible from miles away. The monument is particularly stunning during the annual That Luang Festival in November, when thousands of devotees gather for three days of celebrations, processions, and merit-making ceremonies. Visitors can explore the surrounding temples, learn about Lao Buddhism, and witness the daily rituals of monks and local worshippers.

Top Things to Do in Pha That Luang

Visit Pha That Luang Temple Complex

Explore the golden stupa and surrounding temples, learning about Lao Buddhist traditions and architecture. The complex offers peaceful courtyards perfect for meditation and photography, with the main stupa being most photogenic during golden hour.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is around 10,000 LAK ($1 USD). Best visited early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for cooler temperatures and better lighting. No advance booking needed.

Attend That Luang Festival

Experience the most important religious festival in Laos, held annually in November during the full moon. The three-day celebration features colorful processions, traditional music, local food stalls, and thousands of devotees making merit.

Booking Tip: Festival is free to attend but accommodation books up quickly. Reserve hotels 2-3 months in advance. Festival dates change yearly based on lunar calendar, so check exact dates.

Explore Nearby Wat Neua and Wat Tai

Visit the two guardian temples flanking Pha That Luang, each offering unique architectural details and Buddha statues. These active temples provide insight into daily Buddhist practices and feature beautiful murals depicting Jataka tales.

Booking Tip: Free entry with modest dress code required. Best visited in combination with main stupa. Early morning visits offer chances to observe monk ceremonies.

Join Morning Alms Giving Ceremony

Participate in the traditional Buddhist ritual of offering food to monks during their morning rounds. This sacred practice allows visitors to gain merit while supporting the monastic community and experiencing authentic Lao culture.

Booking Tip: Ceremony starts around 6 AM. Purchase sticky rice and simple foods from nearby vendors (5,000-10,000 LAK). Dress modestly and follow local guidance on proper etiquette.

Photography Tour of Golden Hour

Capture the stunning golden stupa during sunrise or sunset when the monument glows against the sky. The surrounding gardens and reflecting pools provide excellent foreground elements for memorable photographs.

Booking Tip: Best lighting occurs 30 minutes before sunset (around 5:30 PM). Tripods allowed but be respectful of worshippers. Consider hiring local photography guide for 100,000-200,000 LAK.

Getting There

Pha That Luang is located about 4 kilometers northeast of central Vientiane. From Wattay International Airport, take a taxi (60,000-80,000 LAK) or tuk-tuk (40,000-60,000 LAK) directly to the monument, which takes about 20 minutes. If staying in central Vientiane, rent a bicycle (20,000 LAK/day), take a tuk-tuk (30,000-40,000 LAK), or use the local bus system. Many visitors combine the visit with other Vientiane attractions as part of a day tour.

Getting Around

The Pha That Luang complex is easily walkable, with well-maintained paths connecting the main stupa to surrounding temples. Bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the wider area, including nearby Wat Sok Pa Luang forest temple. Tuk-tuks wait outside the complex for onward transportation. For longer stays, consider renting a motorbike (80,000-120,000 LAK/day) to explore surrounding villages and temples at your own pace.

Where to Stay

That Luang Road area

Central Vientiane near Mekong

Chanthabouly District

Sisattanak District

Near Morning Market

Diplomatic Quarter

Food & Dining

The area around Pha That Luang offers numerous local food stalls and small restaurants serving traditional Lao cuisine. Try khao piak sen (rice noodle soup), sticky rice with various accompaniments, and fresh spring rolls from vendors near the temple entrance. For more formal dining, head back toward central Vientiane where you'll find excellent Lao restaurants like Kualao or Ray's Grille, as well as French colonial-era cafes serving coffee and pastries. During the That Luang Festival, dozens of food stalls set up around the complex offering regional specialties and festival treats.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Pha That Luang is during the cool, dry season from November to March when temperatures are comfortable (20-30°C) and rainfall is minimal. November is particularly special due to the That Luang Festival, though expect larger crowds. Early morning visits (6-9 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM) offer the best lighting and cooler temperatures year-round. Avoid the rainy season (May-October) when heavy downpours can disrupt visits, though the monument remains open and fewer tourists mean a more peaceful experience.

Insider Tips

Remove shoes before entering temple buildings and dress modestly with covered shoulders and long pants

Bring small denomination notes for donations and purchasing offerings like flowers, candles, and incense

Visit on Buddhist holy days (full moon days) to witness special ceremonies and increased local participation

Things to Do in Pha That Luang