The Temples of Vientiane

A guide to the major historic royal Hindu & Buddhist sites of central Vientiane, Laos.

Includes 17 large temples, located near the Mekong River in the heart of the city — as well as the world-famous golden temple That Luang & several famous royal structures.

The histories of Vientiane (aka Vieng Chan) & the temples are interwoven with several famous Lao legends – including a mythical dragon, an ill-fated brutal invasion, and a short play (12 scenes) that brings life to the city’s original founding pillar.

The guide includes one long walking itinerary [with a map] for the downtown area.

Features:
. That Luang – a global landmark plated in pure gold
. That Dam – the ‘black stupa’; legendarily home to a seven-headed dragon
. Wat Sisaket – one of Laos’ most famous temples; home to more than 1o,ooo Buddha statues
. Wat Ong Teu – home to one of Laos’ largest bronze Buddha statues (hand-designed & cast by a king, no less) as well as some of the best carved golden ornament in all Southeast Asia
. Wat Hau Phra Kaew – once housed two of the most-famous Buddha statues in the world: the emerald jade Phra Kaew & the golden palladium Phra Bang
. Wat Si Mueang – built atop the ruins of one of Lao’s oldest temples (dating to the Hindu Khmer empire); also home to a beautiful love story of immense tragedy … that still lives on today
. Wat Mixai - an iconic symbol of the city of Vieng Chan & a monument to her independence; built to celebrate victory over Taungoo invaders from Myanmar

Biographies:
. Fa Ngum –founder of Lan Xang; the first kingdom to unite modern Laos
. King Settathirah – the 16th century monarch who made Vieng Chan a capital & cultural epicenter
. Chao Anouwong – Laos’ greatest rebel leader

Also includes:
. hundreds of photos
. Naga water dragon art
. history, background & fast facts, for each temple
. information on famous Buddha statues & relics
. a brief regional history
. local wildlife & who to talk to
. free postcards

* GOLD guaranteed!!