The red roof
Tiers almost touching the ground.
Kenichiro Yamada.V — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Kenichiro Yamada.V — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Kenichiro Yamada.V — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Balon Greyjoy — Public domain
Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, known simply as Wat Mai, is the largest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, standing beside the Royal Palace in the heart of the World Heritage city. Its stepped red roofs and position on the main street make it one of the easiest temples to see, even on a short walk through town. The temple was built at the turn of the 18th century, according to Wikipedia. Tourist guides differ on its building dates, so it is best to treat them as approximate. It is still a working temple where monks live, and it feels like part of the city's daily life rather than a static monument. From the courtyard you see the main hall, with its multi-tiered red roof sweeping almost to the ground in the form typical of Luang Prabang. On its front are gilded panels in relief, crowded with scenes, villages and figures. Small dark towers and an old building with a timber roof stand in the courtyard, giving the place an older look than its fresh colours suggest. It lies a few steps from the Royal Palace and a short distance from Mount Phousi, so combine them in one morning. Cover your shoulders and knees, remove your shoes before entering the halls and keep your voice low. Do not touch monks or photograph them closely without permission. The early morning has the best light.
Tiers almost touching the ground.
Relief panels full of scenes.
Old pieces in the courtyard.
Next to the Royal Palace, main street, Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang Night MarketEvery evening the main street in front of the Royal Palace closes to cars, long 2 minutes walk4.3
Royal Palace, Luang PrabangHaw Kham, built in 1904 in the French era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.2 minutes walk3.9
Mount PhousiA wooded hill about a hundred metres high in the heart of Luang Prabang, crowned3 minutes walk4.2
Traditional Arts and Ethnology CentreThe Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a small museum in Luang Prabang dev3 minutes walk
Wat VisounWat Visoun, also written Wat Visounarath, is one of the oldest temples in Luang 7 minutes walkClothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your shoes before entering the halls.
Yes. The Royal Palace is next door, and Mount Phousi is a short distance away.