Things to Do in That Dam (Black Stupa)
That Dam (Black Stupa), ປະເທດລາວ - Complete Travel Guide
That Dam, also known as the Black Stupa, is a historic Buddhist monument located in the heart of Vientiane, Laos. This ancient brick stupa, covered in dark moss and weathered by centuries, stands as one of the most mysterious and intriguing landmarks in the capital city. According to local legend, the stupa is home to a seven-headed dragon (naga) that protected the city from invading Siamese forces in the 19th century.
Situated in a small park surrounded by busy streets, That Dam offers visitors a glimpse into Laos' rich spiritual heritage and folklore. The stupa's dark, crumbling exterior contrasts sharply with the golden temples found elsewhere in Vientiane, giving it an air of ancient mystery. While modest in size compared to other stupas in Laos, That Dam holds significant cultural importance for locals and serves as a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets, making it an essential stop for those exploring Vientiane's historical and religious sites.
Top Things to Do in That Dam (Black Stupa)
Getting There
That Dam is located in central Vientiane and is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Most visitors arrive at Wattay International Airport, which is about 4 kilometers from the city center, and can reach That Dam by taxi, tuk-tuk, or rental bicycle within 15-20 minutes. The stupa is within walking distance of many other major attractions in Vientiane, including Wat Si Saket, the Presidential Palace, and the Mekong River waterfront. For those coming from other parts of Laos, Vientiane is well-connected by bus from major cities like Luang Prabang and Pakse, with the main bus station located about 10 kilometers from the city center.
Getting Around
Getting around Vientiane to visit That Dam and other attractions is straightforward and affordable. Tuk-tuks are the most popular option for tourists, offering convenient door-to-door service at reasonable prices (negotiate fares in advance, typically 20,000-40,000 kip for short distances). Renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore the city at a leisurely pace, with many guesthouses and shops offering rentals for around 20,000-30,000 kip per day. Walking is also very feasible in central Vientiane, as most attractions including That Dam are within a compact area, and the city's laid-back atmosphere makes for pleasant strolling between sites.
Where to Stay
City Center near That Dam
Mekong Riverside
Around Wat Si Saket
Near Night Market area
Fountain Circle vicinity
Setthathirath Road area
Food & Dining
Vientiane's dining scene around That Dam offers an excellent mix of traditional Lao cuisine and international options. Street food stalls and local restaurants serve authentic dishes like larb, tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and sticky rice at very affordable prices. The nearby morning market (Talat Sao) area features numerous food vendors and small restaurants where you can experience genuine Lao flavors. For those seeking more upscale dining, the city center around That Dam has several French-influenced restaurants reflecting Laos' colonial heritage, as well as Thai, Vietnamese, and Western establishments catering to international visitors.
When to Visit
The best time to visit That Dam and Vientiane is during the cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are more comfortable (20-30°C) and rainfall is minimal. This period offers ideal conditions for walking around the city and exploring outdoor attractions. The hot season from March to May can be quite intense with temperatures reaching 40°C, while the rainy season from June to October brings heavy downpours that can make sightseeing challenging. However, visiting during the rainy season has its advantages, including fewer crowds, lower accommodation prices, and lush green landscapes, though you should be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
Insider Tips
Visit That Dam early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy better lighting for photography, plus you'll often find locals making offerings which adds cultural context to your visit
Combine your visit to That Dam with nearby attractions like Wat Si Saket and the Presidential Palace, as they're all within walking distance and can be covered in a half-day walking tour
Learn about the legend of the seven-headed dragon before visiting - locals love sharing stories about the naga, and showing interest in the folklore will often lead to fascinating conversations with Vientiane residents