Former royal temple of Haw Phrakeo
Haw Phrakeo is a former royal temple in Vientiane where the royal family uses as a personal place of worship. The temple is also called the Temple of the Emerald Buddha as it was first built in 1565 by King Setthathirath to house the Emerald Buddha figurine. After several destructions and rebuilds, Haw Phrakeo now serves as a museum where you can see many precious artifacts and some of the finest examples of Laos religious art such as a 2,000-year-old stone jar from the Plain of Jars, displays of Buddha statues, and a wooden copy of Phra Bang. You will also have the great opportunity to marvel at the temple’s carved wooden features, Khmer stone sculptures, and ancient stone tablets. Outside, Haw Phrakeo temple is surrounded by a well-kept landscaped garden, a wonderful place to rest and take in the peaceful sights.
