Wat Xieng Mouane

Among the most beautiful historical sites in Laos, this temple in the heart of town is quite serene. You may enjoy the numerous ornamental pieces of work, particularly the paintings, stencilling and woodwork, gilding, and countless depictions of Buddha.

According to Denise Heywood, this monastery was founded by a Phragna Sisonxay during the time of King Chantarath (r. 1851-72). The name 'Sieng Mouan' means 'Melodious Sounds,' a reference to the wat's unusually harmonic drums at the time. The wat is now the site of a 'Cultural Survival Project,' which intends to educate traditional mural painting, wood carving, bronze casting, and other traditional trades with the emphasis on preserving these cultural practices, according to a signboard at the site.

Visitors can see a beautifully painted and visually impressive Buddhist temple at Wat Xieng Mouane, which has a distinctive design filled with paintings depicting Buddha's life. The monastery, which was founded in 1879, operates a UNESCO-funded training program for young monks, teaching woodcarving, painting, and Buddha-casting in order to assist maintain the region's temples. Look for the structure's prominent pillars supporting the front porch area, and don't miss the site's showroom, which shows and sells handmade works by local monks.

Address: 101 Kounxoau Rd, Luang Prabang, Laos