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Wat Ho Phra Keo, ປະເທດລາວ - Things to Do in Wat Ho Phra Keo

Things to Do in Wat Ho Phra Keo

Wat Ho Phra Keo, ປະເທດລາວ - Complete Travel Guide

Wat Ho Phra Keo, located in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is one of the most significant and beautiful temples in the country. Originally built in 1565 by King Setthathirath to house the famous Emerald Buddha, this temple served as the royal chapel of the Lao monarchy. Although the Emerald Buddha was taken by the Siamese in 1779, Wat Ho Phra Keo remains a stunning example of traditional Lao architecture and an important cultural landmark. Today, the temple functions as a museum showcasing an impressive collection of Buddhist art, sculptures, and religious artifacts from throughout Laos' history. The temple's elegant design features classic Lao architectural elements including a sweeping roofline, intricate carvings, and beautiful wooden details. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds and learn about Lao Buddhist culture while admiring the craftsmanship of this historic site. The temple is conveniently located in central Vientiane, making it easily accessible for travelers exploring the capital city.

Top Things to Do in Wat Ho Phra Keo

Explore the Buddhist Art Museum

Discover an extensive collection of Buddha statues, religious artifacts, and traditional Lao art housed within the former royal temple. The museum displays pieces ranging from ancient Khmer sculptures to more recent Buddhist artwork, providing insight into the evolution of religious art in Laos.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is typically 10,000-15,000 LAK (about $1-2 USD). Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography. No advance booking required, but bring cash as cards aren't accepted.

Admire Traditional Lao Architecture

Study the temple's distinctive architectural features including the characteristic Lao-style roof, ornate wooden carvings, and traditional building techniques. The structure represents one of the finest examples of classical Lao temple architecture in the capital.

Booking Tip: Best appreciated during guided tours which cost $20-40 USD per person. Look for guides certified by the Lao National Tourism Administration. Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and better photo opportunities.

Visit Nearby Presidential Palace

Combine your temple visit with a walk around the adjacent Presidential Palace grounds and gardens. While the palace interior isn't open to tourists, the exterior and surrounding area offer beautiful photo opportunities and historical context.

Booking Tip: Free to walk around the exterior grounds. Maintain respectful distance from security areas. Best visited as part of a walking tour of central Vientiane costing $15-25 USD per person.

Photography and Temple Meditation

Capture stunning photographs of the temple's intricate details and peaceful atmosphere, or participate in quiet meditation in the serene temple grounds. The site offers excellent opportunities for both artistic photography and spiritual reflection.

Booking Tip: Photography is generally allowed for an additional small fee (5,000 LAK). Early morning (8-9 AM) provides the best natural lighting. Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people.

Learn About Lao Royal History

Discover the fascinating history of the Lao Kingdom and the temple's role as the royal chapel. Learn about King Setthathirath's reign, the story of the Emerald Buddha, and the temple's significance in Lao cultural identity.

Booking Tip: Hire a knowledgeable local guide for $10-20 USD to get detailed historical context. Audio guides may be available for rent at the entrance. Allow 1-2 hours for a comprehensive visit.

Getting There

Vientiane is accessible by air through Wattay International Airport, located about 8km from the city center, with flights from major Southeast Asian cities including Bangkok, Hanoi, and Siem Reap. Overland travel is possible via the Friendship Bridge from Nong Khai, Thailand, or by bus from various cities in Vietnam and Cambodia. From within Vientiane, Wat Ho Phra Keo is centrally located and easily reached by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bicycle from most hotels in the city center.

Getting Around

Vientiane is a compact city perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle, with many attractions including Wat Ho Phra Keo within walking distance of each other. Tuk-tuks are abundant and affordable for short trips, typically costing 20,000-40,000 LAK ($2-4 USD) for city center journeys. Motorbike taxis, regular taxis, and rental bicycles are also available. Many visitors enjoy renting a bicycle for the day (around $2-3 USD) to explore the city at a leisurely pace, as traffic is generally light and manageable.

Where to Stay

City Center near Nam Phou Fountain
Setthathirath Road area
Chao Anouvong Park vicinity
Mekong Riverfront district
Khoun Bulom Road area
Near Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Food & Dining

Vientiane offers an excellent mix of traditional Lao cuisine and international dining options. Try local specialties like laap (meat salad), tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and sticky rice at local restaurants near the temple area. The nearby Chao Anouvong Park and riverfront areas feature numerous riverside restaurants serving fresh fish and traditional dishes. For international cuisine, the city center offers French bistros, Italian restaurants, and various Asian options, reflecting Laos' colonial history and regional influences. Street food stalls and local markets provide authentic and budget-friendly dining experiences.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Vientiane

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

La Terrasse

4.5 /5
(1251 reviews) 2

Tango Pub Bar Restaurant

4.6 /5
(450 reviews) 2

Cafe Ango

4.7 /5
(314 reviews) 2
cafe

Le Khem Khong

4.8 /5
(211 reviews)
bar

Bistro 22

4.5 /5
(213 reviews) 2

Home Vientiane

4.6 /5
(160 reviews)
cafe park

When to Visit

The best time to visit Wat Ho Phra Keo is during the cool, dry season from November to March when temperatures are more comfortable (20-30°C) and rainfall is minimal. Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) visits are ideal to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The temple can be visited year-round, but the hot season (April-May) can be extremely warm, while the rainy season (June-October) brings afternoon showers that may affect outdoor exploration. Buddhist holidays and festivals can make visits more culturally interesting but also more crowded.

Insider Tips

Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees as this is an active religious site and museum - sarongs may be available for rent at the entrance
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Wat Sisaket and That Dam stupa, all within walking distance for a comprehensive cultural morning
Bring small denomination Lao kip in cash as the site doesn't accept credit cards, and having exact change speeds up entry and any additional fees for photography

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