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Private Journeys in Wat Phou

The Essence of Wat Phou

Suggestions for Discovering Wat Phou Explore the ancient Khmer temple complex, originally dedicated to the god Badhecvara.

Wat Phou is a a ruined Khmer temple complex built on as early as the 5th century, but the surviving structures date from the 11th to 13th centuries. It is famous for its unique structure and mysterious symbols. According to the legend, at first, this temple was built worship Badhecvara god. There is also Crethapura – the first capital of Chenla kingdom. Until now, many religious ceremonies and activities have taken place in Wat Phu. Coming there, tourists will be curious and fascinated by the mysteries and tales about Wat Phou.

Being in the temple Wat Phou with a museum displaying more than 100 stone statues, sculptures and amazingly beautiful curved patterns from the 5th century to the 11th century, tourists will wonder why how ancient people could do it. Moving the stone up to the mountain, carving on the stone with rudimentary tools but making extremely great works must have taken a lot of time and effort of ancient people.

Due to inevitable destruction and the harsh climate, undergoing thousand years, Wat Phou is still an attractive destination to tourists by the spectacular beauty of unique architecture and the spiritual mystery of a sacred land going along with people’s aspiration of a peaceful life in centuries.

Our Favorite Journeys

Wat Phou, at Its Best Right Now

Laos

Northern Laos Adventure

12 DAYS

Northern Laos Adventure: Rivers, Jungles & Tribes Discover the spectacular scenery and rich culture of Northern Laos on this adventure-filled journey of trekking and kayaking. Starting in the ancient city of Luang Prabang, you will head north to the tranquil town of Nong Khiaw. You will trek along the beautiful Nam Ou River as you…

Laos

Luang Prabang to Hanoi & Halong Bay

9 DAYS

Luang Prabang to Hanoi & Halong Bay Discover the highlights of northern Laos and Vietnam on this exciting tour! Start in Vientiane, Laos’s sleepy riverside capital, known for its beautiful monuments and green boulevards. Then, visit the enchanting Luang Prabang, famous for its stunning colonial architecture, ornate monasteries, and lively markets. Fly to Hanoi ,…

Cambodia

Luxury Indochina Experience by Private Jet

12 Days

Luxury Indochina Experience by Private Jet Experience Southeast Asia in luxury and comfort aboard a private jet. Begin your journey in Bangkok, where you can visit ancient temples. From there, fly to the charming city of Luang Prabang in Laos. Next, travel to Vietnam to see unforgettable sights, including a private helicopter tour of Halong…

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the ancient town situated in northern Laos. In 1995, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The global body described it as an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved town scape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.

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Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a peaceful city on the Mekong River. With a population of around 610,000, it’s small compared to Bangkok or Hanoi. The city has over 400 years of history, dating back to the 16th century.

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Vang Vieng

Located on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is a tourism-oriented town in Laos. It takes about four hours ride to the north from the capital Vientiane to Vang Vieng. Vang Vieng has long-lasting history since 1353 with its original name as Mouang Song and was renamed as Vang Vieng now during French colonial in the 1890s. The most notable feature of the area is the karst hill landscape surrounding the town.

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Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)

Si Phan Don, or the 4000 Islands, is a peaceful destination in southern Laos. This unique area, with its breathtaking islands and sandbanks, is shaped by the seasons of the Mekong River. During the flood season, it becomes the widest part of the river, but in the dry season, hundreds of islands emerge, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

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Pakbeng

Being located between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang, Pakbeng used to grand the Mekong as the only major transport route in the country. Nowadays, Pakbeng has developed as a stop during the night for both shipment and passenger ferryboats.

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Pha That Luang

Located on a hill about three miles northeast of the centre of Vientiane, Pha That Luang (The Great Stupa or Sacred Reliquary) is considered as the most important national monument and the symbol of both the Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty. It is an impressive gold-covered large Buddhist stupa whose gilded structure reflects marvelously in the midday sunlight.

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Tham Jang

Located southwest of Vang Vieng in Laos, Tham Jang (or Tham Chang) is Vang Vieng’s most famous of the caves. In the early 19th century the cave was used as a bunker during the Chinese-Ho invasion. It was also the residence of migrating people who settled near the town’s southern Meuand Xong Village to plant vegetables.

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Tham Xang

Located in a scenic karst area to the northeast of Thakaek, Tham Xang (or Elephant Cave) is one of many famous caves known for its remarkable limestone formation and having prominent Buddha statues housed around it.

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Your Route Through Wat Phou

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