Wat Si Saket

Wat Si Saket is reckoned to be among the oldest temples that are still standing in Vientiane. In direct contrast to other temples that follow Laos style of architecture, this Wat is built as per Siamese style of architecture. The temple was built in 1818 by King Anouvong. It has a cloister wall that holds more than 2000 images of the Buddha, in ceramic as well as silver. There is also a museum with the compound. The Siamese style of architecture is regarded as one of the main reasons why the temple seems to have survived the plundering and pillage by the Siamese army that followed Anouvong's rebellion in 1827.

Some of the popular attractions include the Wooden Naga with its intricate detailing as well as an image of Buddha seated on a coiled naga. Within the complex, there are different sections e.g.

• the Hao Tai i.e. the library which houses Buddhist texts.
• the kuti where monks and their disciples sleep
• the ordination hall, which boasts of lovely murals depicting images from the life of the Buddha.

Wat Si Saket is still in use as a monastery and houses many monks and novices even today.

Location: On Lan Xang Road (across the street from the Presidential Palace), Vientiane
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 – 16:00