Wat Ho Phra Keo

Among the most beautiful historical sites in Laos, Wat Ho Phra Keo is a former temple in Vientiane, Laos. It is located southeast of Wat Si Saket on Setthathirath Road. It was originally constructed in 1565 to hold the Emerald Buddha, but has since been restored multiple times. The inside presently houses a religious art museum and a modest shop.

Wat Ho Phra Keo houses Laotian religious art as well as writings on dried leaf. Despite being renovated, the temple resembles the old and is built in the 19th century Bangkok architectural style. Witness a 2,000-year-old stone used in funeral ceremonies in the yard. The entrance features Naga, a mythical snake. The terraces are lined by a long series of stone Buddha statues, some of which date from the 6th to 9th centuries. The gathering hall is accessed through two carved wooden doors. The journey then continues to the gilded seat, where the Emerald Buddha formerly sat.

Address: Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane 0100 Laos