Wat Phia Wat

Wat Phia Wat, a 14th-century Buddhist temple in Laos, is a testament to its resilience after centuries of destruction and reconstruction. The war-torn Buddha statue serves as a poignant reminder of the country's turbulent past, while the temple itself continues to be a beacon of faith and cultural heritage.

Wat Phia Wat, a 14th-century Buddhist temple in Laos (Cre: Atlas Obscura)

History of Wat Phia Wat

Wat Phia Wat, chosen for construction in 1322, has faced many periods of destruction throughout its history. In the 14th century, the impact of war damaged the Buddha statue, severing its arm.

Further devastation came in 1953 during the First Indochina War and again in 1966 from American bombing. The pagoda was heavily damaged but later partially restored.

Today, the Buddha statue bears the scars of war – a missing eye and marks on its right cheek and lip. Despite its weathered appearance, the statue remains revered by worshippers who continue to pray here.

Wat Phia Wat stands as a significant historical landmark, a symbol of Lao national pride and the enduring spirit that overcame brutal wars.

Wat Phia Wat stands as a significant historical landmark (Cre: asiatouradvisor)

Read more: Laos excursions

Location and how to move to Wat Phia Wat

Wat Phia Wat is located in Muang Khoun, only 30 kilometers from Phonsavan, Laos. Muang Khoun was previously the region’s capital city, but all that remains of the capital today are the fragments of Wat Phia Wat, as well as a few stupas.

To reach Wat Phia Wat in Xieng Khouang, you must travel to the town of Phonsavan, the capital of Xieng Khouang province. Here are the steps to achieve that:

Travel to Phonsavan: You can travel to Phonsavan by plane, bus, or car depending on your starting location. Choose the most convenient and cost-effective mode of transport for you.

From Phonsavan to Wat Phia Wat:

• By Taxi or Tuk-Tuk: Once in Phonsavan, you can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to take you to Wat Phia Wat. The temple is located in Muang Khoun, about 30 km southeast of Phonsavan. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
• By Motorcycle or Bicycle: If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a motorcycle or bicycle in Phonsavan and ride to Wat Phia Wat. This option allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Ensure you plan your trip according to the local weather conditions and travel advisories for the best experience.

Wat Phia Wat is located in Muang Khoun (Cre: Ms Linh’s Adventure)

The ideal time to travel to Wat Phia Wat

Laos is a landlocked country with a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season in Laos occurs from May to October, while the dry season runs from October to April. For those choosing to travel to Laos, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is more favorable for travel and offers more enjoyable experiences.

Therefore, to make traveling to Wat Phia Wat easier, you should plan your visit during the dry season to have the best and most enjoyable experience. 

The highlights of Wat Phia Wat 

Wat Phia Wat stands out amidst numerous temples in Laos due to its remarkable Buddha statue, a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship and profound spiritual significance.

At the heart of Wat Phia Wat lies this colossal Buddha statue, sculpted with meticulous attention to detail. It portrays the serene countenance of the Buddha in a seated posture, radiating an aura of tranquility and wisdom. The statue's unique style, distinct from other Buddhist sculptures, sets it apart and draws visitors in with its captivating presence.

Visitors can admire this giant Buddha statue with reverence and reflect on the fierce ruins of war and the pride of the Lao people.

Wat Phia Wat stands out amidst numerous temples in Laos (Cre: Laos tour)

Some tips for traveling to Wat Phia Wat

Here are some tips for traveling to Wat Phia Wat in Xieng Khouang province: 

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, avoid making noise at the temple.
• Packing Essentials: Prepare comfortable clothing suitable for the climate in Laos. Remember to bring sun protection and your own water bottle. 
• Cash: Carry enough Lao Kip (LAK) for small purchases and transportation. Credit card usage may be limited in rural areas. 

By planning ahead and following these tips, you'll ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Wat Phia Wat. 

Some places to visit near Wat Phia Wat 

Plain of Jars

The Plain of Jars is an important archaeological site located in Xieng Khouang province, Laos. It is famous for its huge collection of ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape among the hills and valleys. These jars vary in size, from small to giant, with some measuring up to three meters high and weighing several tons.

The Plain of Jars is an important archaeological site located in Xieng Khouang province (Cre: Curiosity Travel)

Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum 

The Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum is one of the most interesting provincial museums in Laos. Funded with the help of the German government, it opened in October 2018. The museum's focus is on promoting appreciation and understanding about the history and cultures of Xieng Khouang Province. 

Xieng Khouang Provincial Museum (Cre: internet)

Conclusion

Wat Phia Wat in Xieng Khouang, Laos, offers visitors a serene retreat steeped in history and spirituality. Nestled in Muang Khoun, this ancient temple, constructed in the 14th century, provides a glimpse into Lao Buddhist traditions and architectural heritage.  

In addition to Wat Phia Wat, Xieng Khouang province offers many other interesting attractions for tourists. Contact us, Asia King Travel, and we will take you to enjoy the unforgettable beauty of Laos. 

Read more: Laos tours 5 days