Wat Inpeng
A vibrant Buddhist temple in Vientiane, known for its striking gold and green facades, intricate art, and lively local atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness local rituals
Wat Inpeng
Best Time
Witness local rituals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Buddhist temple in Vientiane, known for its striking gold and green facades, intricate art, and lively local atmosphere.
"Lovely and lively temple with a lot of local activity. A great opportunity to observe Lao life."
Observe Local Life
Great spot to see Lao life, especially during holidays. :peopleholdinghands:
Admire the Facades
Even if the inside is closed, the stunning gold and green facades are worth it. :eyes:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Gate Entrance
Main street entrance
A grand golden gate guarded by imposing statues, offering a striking first impression.
Emerald and Gold Shrines
Temple grounds
Two distinct shrines, one gleaming gold, the other a vibrant emerald, each housing a unique Buddha.
Intricate Wall Carvings
Outer walls
Detailed carvings and vivid imagery adorning the outer walls, showcasing local artistry and devotion.
Tranquil Garden
Temple grounds
An oasis of calm with mature trees and frangipani, perfect for a peaceful break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Local Life
Explore the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Observe Local Life
Great spot to see Lao life, especially during holidays. :peopleholdinghands:
Admire the Facades
Even if the inside is closed, the stunning gold and green facades are worth it. :eyes:
Buddha in small building at the back of Wat Inpeng, Vientiane, Laod
Find the Buddha
A Buddha statue is located in a small building at the back of the temple. :statueofliberty:
Relax in the Garden
The temple garden is a lovely, shaded spot to sit and enjoy the tranquility. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Observe Local Life
Great spot to see Lao life, especially during holidays. :peopleholdinghands:
Admire the Facades
Even if the inside is closed, the stunning gold and green facades are worth it. :eyes:
Find the Buddha
A Buddha statue is located in a small building at the back of the temple. :statueofliberty:
Relax in the Garden
The temple garden is a lovely, shaded spot to sit and enjoy the tranquility. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wat Inpeng to be a beautiful and lively temple, offering a great opportunity to observe local Lao life, especially during Buddhist holidays. Its striking gold and green facade, intricate carvings, and tranquil garden are frequently praised, making it a worthwhile stop even if the interior is closed. Some note it's a quiet temple outside of holidays, but still a pleasant place to visit.
"Wat Inpeng is hard to miss, sitting right in the heart of Vientiane’s main street. A large golden gate flanked by two guardian statues welcomes you in. There’s also a quieter side entrance that leads in from a nearby street, should you prefer a more understated approach.
There is plenty to admire here: detailed carvings and vivid imagery decorated the outer walls, offering a glimpse into the artistry and devotion poured into this sacred place.
Outside, there are two more shrines, each home to a different interpretation of the Buddha, one painted in emerald tones, the other gleaming in gold.
It's definitely taking a short time to explore this temple alongside the many others in Vientiane."
Bok “Doc Bok” McDonagh
"Lovely and lively temple with a lot of local activity. A great opportunity to observe Lao life."
Floyd Cooper
"Beautiful temple with striking gold and green facade. The inside was closed at 9:30am but it was well worth looking around the grounds.
We sat on the seats at the entry and took the time to enjoy the stunning facade.
Definitely worth a visit, even just to sit in the garden."
Rigoniman Rigoni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Inpeng is conveniently located right on the main street in the heart of Vientiane, making it easily accessible. You can walk there if you're staying nearby, or take a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride from other parts of the city. Its central location makes it a common stop when exploring other Vientiane attractions.
Yes, Wat Inpeng is hard to miss! It sits prominently on Vientiane's main street and is marked by a large golden gate flanked by guardian statues. There's also a quieter side entrance if you prefer a less direct approach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter Wat Inpeng. It's a functioning temple, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds freely. Donations are always appreciated to help with temple upkeep.
While the temple grounds are generally accessible, the main hall's interior may have specific opening hours and can sometimes be closed, even in the morning. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the temple's exterior and grounds.
Yes, visiting Wat Inpeng during Buddhist holidays is highly recommended for a lively experience. The temple becomes a hub of local activity, offering a unique glimpse into Lao culture and traditions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wat Inpeng offers a lot to admire, including a striking golden gate, detailed wall carvings with vivid imagery, and two distinct shrines with gold and emerald facades. The temple grounds also feature a peaceful garden with mature trees and frangipani. +1
Yes, there is a Buddha statue located in a small building at the back of the temple grounds.
Absolutely! The temple boasts a lovely garden with mature trees and frangipani, providing a tranquil oasis. It's a great spot to sit, enjoy the shade, and take a break from exploring the city.
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds. However, always be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos inside if there are signs prohibiting it or if it feels intrusive.
Wat Inpeng is described as a lovely and lively temple, especially when local activities are taking place. It's also an oasis of quiet and tranquility, offering a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Wat Inpeng itself is primarily a place of worship and does not typically have food stalls or restaurants within its grounds. However, being located on a main street in Vientiane, you'll find numerous dining options, from local eateries to cafes, just a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
The striking golden gate, the vibrant emerald and gold shrines, and the detailed carvings on the outer walls are all excellent photo subjects. The tranquil garden also offers beautiful shots, especially with the mature trees and frangipani flowers. +1
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour before sunset can illuminate the temple's golden elements beautifully.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main hall might have limited access, the exterior beauty and the distinct emerald and gold shrines offer engaging sights. It's a good idea to visit during daylight hours to make the most of the visual elements. Remember to encourage respectful behavior as it is a place of worship.
🚶 Budget Travelers
There's no entrance fee, allowing you to experience a significant cultural site without spending a dime. The beauty of the temple's exterior, the detailed carvings, and the peaceful garden are all accessible for free. Consider a small donation if you feel inclined to support the temple's upkeep.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Wat Inpeng
The architecture of Wat Inpeng is a key draw, featuring a grand golden gate flanked by guardian statues that create an imposing and welcoming entrance. The outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings and vivid imagery, offering a visual narrative of Buddhist stories and local artistry. Inside, visitors can find different interpretations of the Buddha, including striking emerald and gold shrines, each with its own unique aesthetic.
Beyond its religious importance, Wat Inpeng serves as an oasis of tranquility. The temple grounds include a serene garden with mature trees and fragrant frangipani, providing a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. It's a place where visitors can not only admire the religious art and architecture but also experience a moment of quiet reflection and observe the rhythm of daily Lao life.
Exploring the Temple Grounds
Within the grounds, you'll discover two distinct shrines, each housing a Buddha image. One is painted in striking emerald tones, while the other gleams in polished gold. These offer a visual contrast and highlight the diverse artistic expressions within Buddhist traditions. Don't miss the smaller building at the back, which houses another Buddha statue.
The temple's garden is a true highlight for those seeking peace. Dotted with mature trees and the fragrant blooms of frangipani, it's an ideal spot to sit on the provided benches, enjoy the shade, and absorb the serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to pause and reflect, making your visit to Wat Inpeng a holistic experience of culture, art, and spirituality.
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