[2024 Vientiane Attraction] Travel Guide for Wat Ho Phra Keo (Updated Nov)
Museums
Address:
Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane 0100 Laos
Opening times:
Open tomorrow at 8:00-12:00,13:00-16:00Closed Today
Ho Phra Keo Museum original home of the Emerald Buddha
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Ho Phra Keo temple was built in 1565 when King Setthathirath moved Laos’s capital from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. Ho Phra Kaew temple functioned as a personal chapel for Laos Royals and accommodated the famous Emerald Buddha statue, an important symbol of Buddhism.
The stairways to the temple’s entrances carry a mythological Naga snake sculptured in stone
After that the Siamese King, a Buddhist, remade an identical statue and returned it to Laos, to be replaced where the statue was taken. Through the war years, Wat Phra Kaew was destroyed and restored many times, now it is no longer used for Buddhist worship, it’s turned into a museum preserving precious artifacts such as Buddha statues, a gilded throne for the Emerald Buddha, inscribed Khmer stone steles, some wood sculptures or inscriptions carved in stone
There is a large stone jar in the garden, which actually comes from Laos’ mysterious Plain of Jars.
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Hor Pha Keo
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Hor Pha Keo Museum, Originally, this ancient temple was built in 1565 by King Xayasetthathilath to house the Emerald Buddha 1565-1779 (lost to the Siamese in 1828) as his personal place of worship.
According to history said that Hor Pha Keo was reconstructed in 1936. For this reason and unlike other temples in Laos, monks have not taken up residence here. During the 1970’s, the temple was converted from a place of worship into museum and now houses the finest national collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts. From the terrace of HorPhra Keo, one can enjoy a view overlooking the president’s Palace and garden.
Address: Samsenthai Rd, In between Mahosod hospital and President’s Palace, Vientiane, Laos.
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Laos: Rich Blend of Colonial and Traditional Lan Xang Cultures
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Vientiane and Luang Prabang, two of Laos’ most iconic cities, offer a rich blend of colonial and Lan Xang culture, making them captivating travel destinations.
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, reflects its historical French colonial past intertwined with the legacy of the ancient Lan Xang Kingdom. The city’s wide boulevards and crumbling French villas sit harmoniously with gilded Buddhist temples, such as the That Luang Stupa and Wat Si Saket. Visitors can stroll along the Mekong River, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere unique to Southeast Asia. The presence of charming French-style cafes and colonial buildings side by side with traditional Lao architecture creates a fusion that offers insight into the city’s layered history. The culture is both serene and vibrant, offering travelers experiences from peaceful temples to lively night markets.
Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where this cultural blend is even more pronounced. Known for its well-preserved Buddhist monasteries and French colonial architecture, the town sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, surrounded by mountains. The city was once the heart of the Lan Xang Kingdom, and its heritage is evident in the stunning royal palaces and ancient temples. Highlights include Wat Xieng Thong, with its intricate Lao craftsmanship, and the morning alms-giving ceremony where orange-robed monks receive offerings. French colonial influences can be seen in the elegant guesthouses, boutique hotels, and cafes serving French pastries alongside local cuisine. This melding of the two cultures makes Luang Prabang both exotic and familiar.
Laos, particularly these two cities, offers a peaceful and unhurried environment that appeals to travelers looking to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. The spiritual traditions of the Lan Xang Kingdom combined with the subtle European flair make Vientiane and Luang Prabang fantastic destinations for those who appreciate history, culture, and architectural beauty. With scenic landscapes, such as waterfalls and caves surrounding these cities, they also provide nature lovers with plenty of opportunities for exploration.
The fusion of colonial and Lan Xang culture in these cities is a living testament to Laos’ rich history and charm, making them must-visit locations for travelers seeking both cultural depth and natural beauty.