Wat Siphoutthabat
A serene temple at the foot of Mount Phousi, offering peaceful reflection and a unique cultural experience with evening prayers and historical murals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience evening prayers
Wat Siphoutthabat
Best Time
Experience evening prayers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene temple at the foot of Mount Phousi, offering peaceful reflection and a unique cultural experience with evening prayers and historical murals.
"Experience enchanting chants and admire Ramayana-inspired murals after 6 PM. A truly spiritual and artistic encounter."
🙏 Evening Prayer Experience
Visit after 6 PM for enchanting monk chants and beautiful Ramayana murals inside the main chapel.
🚶♀️ Base of Mount Phousi
Perfect stop before or after climbing Mount Phousi for stunning city views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Evening Prayers
Main Chapel
Experience enchanting chants and admire Ramayana-inspired murals after 6 PM. A truly spiritual and artistic encounter.
Mount Phousi Foothill
Base of Mount Phousi
A peaceful temple offering a quiet moment before or after climbing Mount Phousi for panoramic city views.
Traditional Lao Architecture
Temple Grounds
Admire the modest charm and traditional design of this serene Buddhist temple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Mount Phousi
Donation & Preservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Looking for recommendations for stuff to do in Luang Prabang, Laos
🙏 Evening Prayer Experience
Visit after 6 PM for enchanting monk chants and beautiful Ramayana murals inside the main chapel.
🚶♀️ Base of Mount Phousi
Perfect stop before or after climbing Mount Phousi for stunning city views.
Luangprabang tips & tours
People who’ve been to Luang Prabang, what are some to-do stuff there?
💖 Support Preservation
Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged to maintain the temple's beauty.
🐶 Friendly Encounters
You might spot puppies near the temple hall during evening chants.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Evening Prayer Experience
Visit after 6 PM for enchanting monk chants and beautiful Ramayana murals inside the main chapel.
🚶♀️ Base of Mount Phousi
Perfect stop before or after climbing Mount Phousi for stunning city views.
💖 Support Preservation
Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged to maintain the temple's beauty.
🐶 Friendly Encounters
You might spot puppies near the temple hall during evening chants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Siphoutthabath is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and its convenient location at the base of Mount Phousi, making it a pleasant stop before or after the climb. Visitors particularly enjoy the unique experience of evening prayers and the beautiful, historically influenced murals within the main chapel. While some note it could benefit from better maintenance, its serene ambiance and free entry make it a worthwhile, contemplative visit.
"Wat Siphoutthabath is a small and peaceful temple located at the foothill of the path leading up to Mount Phousi. Its location makes it a convenient stop for those planning to hike up the mountain for panoramic views of Luang Prabang.
The temple itself has a modest charm with traditional Lao architecture, but it feels a bit neglected compared to other temples in the area. Some parts could benefit from better maintenance to truly highlight its potential beauty.
The serene atmosphere and fewer crowds make it a good spot for a moment of quiet reflection before or after the hike. While it’s not a must-visit, it’s a pleasant addition to your Mount Phousi trip if you have some extra time."
The Compass Guy
"Beautiful temple just like every temples in Luang Prabang. It's located at the beginning of the eastern entrance of the trail going up Mount Phousi and has numerous shrines along the way. Entrance is free but donations encouraged to preserve the beauty of this World Heritage City."
DominiQC Asean
"If you find somewhere to spend the evening time instead of walking up to Phu Si Hill or shopping at the night market, then you should visit here! After 6 pm, the main chapel of Wat Siphoutthabath is open for evening prayers. In this time you can go inside the beautiful murals on the wall which painted about Ramayana. The painting has influenced by Thai art, around King Rama IV Reign. After 10-15 minutes the door opened, monks and novices come and start to pray. The enchanting voice will make this place more admirable.
If you visit Luang Prabang, mark this place as your destination!"
Jerdja Rujirat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Siphoutthabath is conveniently located at the base of Mount Phousi, on the eastern entrance trail. If you're in Luang Prabang town, it's easily accessible by foot or a short tuk-tuk ride. Many visitors combine their visit with the climb up Mount Phousi.
Yes, it's quite straightforward. Look for the signs pointing towards Mount Phousi; the temple is situated right at its foothills. It's a common landmark for those heading up the mountain.
Absolutely! Hiring a driver for the day is a popular option for groups in Luang Prabang, and they will easily include Wat Siphoutthabath as part of your itinerary, especially if you're visiting Kuang Si Waterfall and Mount Phousi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance to Wat Siphoutthabath itself is free. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help with the upkeep and preservation of the temple and its grounds.
While the temple grounds are generally accessible, the main chapel is specifically open for evening prayers after 6 PM, offering a unique cultural experience.
Yes, there is a separate entrance fee of 20,000 kip to climb Mount Phousi for the panoramic views. Visiting Wat Siphoutthabath at the base does not require this fee, but donations are welcome.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the traditional Lao temple architecture, explore the shrines along the path to Mount Phousi, and if you visit in the evening, witness the beautiful murals inside the main chapel depicting the Ramayana.
Compared to other major attractions, Wat Siphoutthabath tends to be less crowded, especially outside of peak hours. Visiting in the early morning or during the evening prayers offers a more serene atmosphere.
The murals inside the main chapel are painted about the Ramayana and show influences from Thai art, particularly from around the reign of King Rama IV. They are a significant artistic and cultural feature.
Yes, it's a peaceful place suitable for families. The temple offers a quiet environment for reflection, and the proximity to Mount Phousi makes it a good stop for a family outing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the traditional temple architecture, the serene atmosphere, and the intricate details of the Ramayana murals inside the main chapel during evening prayers. The path leading up Mount Phousi also offers scenic shots.
Photography is generally allowed, especially to capture the beautiful murals. However, always be respectful of the monks and any ongoing prayers or ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to catch the evening prayers, which can be a fascinating cultural experience for children. While the temple itself might not have specific child-centric activities, its serene environment and proximity to other Luang Prabang attractions make it a worthwhile stop on a family itinerary.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Visiting during the evening prayers offers a unique cultural immersion and a chance to witness traditional Buddhist practices. It's also a perfect, peaceful stop before or after climbing Mount Phousi, a popular activity among solo travelers looking for great views and a bit of exercise.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart: Evening Prayers at Wat Siphoutthabath
This ritual provides a profound cultural immersion, far removed from the typical tourist hustle. It's a chance to witness a living tradition and appreciate the serene beauty of Buddhist practices. The gentle chanting and the visual splendor of the murals combine to make this a highlight for many visitors seeking a more authentic Luang Prabang experience.
A Peaceful Prelude to Mount Phousi
While some reviews mention the temple feeling slightly neglected, its serene atmosphere is still a significant draw. It serves as a peaceful sanctuary, offering a moment of calm and contemplation. For travelers who appreciate quietude and traditional Buddhist aesthetics, Wat Siphoutthabath is a pleasant addition to their Mount Phousi excursion, even if it's not the primary destination.
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