Vientiane Attractions
Royal Stupa at sunset © Oliver Spalt
That Luang (Royal Stupa)
The Royal Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism and Lao rule and is
Laos' most important religious building. The dazzling golden temple
and its spire are visible from afar and locals claim that if you
have not visited That Luang, you have not visited Laos. The base of
the stupa has walkways and stairs connecting the different levels,
designed for the faithful to climb. Each level has different
architectural features pertaining to Buddhist doctrine. Worshippers
stick balls of sticky rice to the walls as a mark of respect to the
spirit of King Setthathirat, who built the shrine in 1566 and whose
statue stands in front of the temple. The effects of the setting
sun on its golden surface are stunning.
