Great Sacred Stupa (Pha That Luang)

Great Sacred Stupa or Pha That Luang is a massive gold-covered Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane, Laos. Since its construction, which is thought to have begun in the third century AD, the stupa has been rebuilt multiple times, most recently in the 1930s due to foreign invasions of the area. It is widely recognized as Laos' most important national monument and a national symbol. It is also regarded as one of the most beautiful historical sites in Laos.

The structure, which is a national symbol and appears on the country's official seal, is thought to house a breast bone of Buddha sent by a Hindu missionary dispatched by King Ashoka as early as the third century CE. This most renowned national landmark includes a massive golden reclining Buddha statue and a statue of King Setthathirath, the founder of the current-day stupa built in 1566, erected in front of the main entrance. The facility is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of Vientinane.

Address: That Luang Road, Vientiane 0100 Laos