About
Pha That Luang (Great Sacred Stupa) is the most important national monument and symbol of Laos — a golden Buddhist stupa that dominates the skyline of Vientiane. Originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Asokan mission and rebuilt in its current form in 1566 by King Setthathirath, the 45-metre gold-covered stupa is surrounded by a cloister of smaller stupas and is considered the spiritual and national heart of the Lao nation. Each November, the That Luang Festival draws pilgrims from across Laos and neighbouring countries.
History
Legend holds that Pha That Luang was originally built over a 3rd century BC Buddhist monument erected by Ashokan missionaries. King Setthathirath rebuilt the stupa in 1566 when he moved the Lao capital to Vientiane. Destroyed by the Siamese in 1779 and restored in the 19th and 20th centuries, the stupa stands as a symbol of Lao sovereignty, Buddhism, and national identity.
Highlights
- 45m Gold-Covered Main Stupa
- Cloister of 30 Small Stupas
- King Setthathirath Statue
- That Luang Festival (November)
- Patuxai Victory Gate (nearby)
Location
Visit Information
Opening Hours
8:00 - 12:00, 13:00 - 16:00 (closed Mondays)
Entry Fee
5,000 LAK
Best Time to Visit
October to March
