The Temples of Vientiane

A guide to the major historic royal Hindu & Buddhist sites of central Vientiane, Laos. Includes 17 large temples, located near the Mekong River in the heart of the city - as well as the world-famous golden temple That Luang & several famous royal structures. The histories of Vientiane (aka Vieng Chan) & the temples are interwoven with several famous Lao legends - including a mythical dragon, an ill-fated brutal invasion, and a short play (12 scenes) that brings life to the city's original founding pillar.
The guide includes one long walking itinerary [with a map] for the downtown area. Features:. That Luang - a global landmark plated in pure gold. That Dam - the 'black stupa'; legendarily home to a seven-headed dragon. Wat Sisaket - one of Laos' most famous temples; home to more than 1o, ooo Buddha statues. Wat Ong Teu - home to one of Laos' largest bronze Buddha statues (hand-designed & cast by a king, no less) as well as some of the best carved golden ornament in all Southeast Asia.
Wat Hau Phra Kaew - once housed two of the most-famous Buddha statues in the world: the emerald jade Phra Kaew & the golden palladium Phra Bang. Wat Si Mueang - built atop the ruins of one of Lao's oldest temples (dating to the Hindu Khmer empire); also home to a beautiful love story of immense tragedy . that still lives on today. Wat Mixai - an iconic symbol of the city of Vieng Chan & a monument to her independence; built to celebrate victory over Taungoo invaders from MyanmarBiographies:.
Fa Ngum -founder of Lan Xang; the first kingdom to unite modern Laos. King Settathirah - the 16th century monarch who made Vieng Chan a capital & cultural epicenter. Chao Anouwong - Laos' greatest rebel leaderAlso includes:. hundreds of photos. Naga water dragon art. history, background & fast facts, for each temple. information on famous Buddha statues & relics. a brief regional history. local wildlife & who to talk to.
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