King Setthathirath Statue
Majestic statue honoring King Setthathirath, a revered Lao leader and builder of Buddhist monuments, situated at the sacred Phra That Luang.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
King Setthathirath Statue
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic statue honoring King Setthathirath, a revered Lao leader and builder of Buddhist monuments, situated at the sacred Phra That Luang.
"A significant historical monument honoring a great Lao king, especially impactful when visited with the adjacent Phra That Luang."
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Visit Phra That Luang
Don't miss the adjacent stupa, a major landmark. :temple_buddhist:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
King Setthathirath Statue
Phra That Luang Complex
Majestic statue of a revered Lao king, a symbol of national pride and historical significance.
Phra That Luang Stupa
Adjacent to the statue
Laos' most sacred Buddhist stupa, a golden marvel reflecting rich history and spiritual importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Time for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Visit Phra That Luang
Don't miss the adjacent stupa, a major landmark. :temple_buddhist:
Morning/Evening Light
Best for photos, avoid midday heat. :camerawithflash:
Learn Lao History
Understand King Setthathirath's legacy for a richer visit. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
Visit Phra That Luang
Don't miss the adjacent stupa, a major landmark. :temple_buddhist:
Morning/Evening Light
Best for photos, avoid midday heat. :camerawithflash:
Learn Lao History
Understand King Setthathirath's legacy for a richer visit. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the King Setthathirath Statue to be a significant historical monument, particularly due to its prominent location at the sacred Phra That Luang complex. It's seen as a symbol of Lao pride and the legacy of a great king. While some note it's primarily a statue, its historical context and adjacency to the stupa make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Lao culture and history.
"Just in front of the main entrance to the Phra That Luang Buddhist Stupa is the statue to King Setthathirath. He is regarded as one of the great leaders in The history of Laos. He reigned between 1534 - 1571 defending the kingdom of Lan Xang from various foreign invaders. The statue is particularly fine."
Nigel Fowler Sutton
"Historic place, you don't want to miss ut."
HAWK Khondakar
"King Setthathirath is considered one of the great leaders in Lao history. Throughout the 1560s until his death, he successfully defended his kingdom of Lan Xang against military campaigns of Burmese conqueror Bayinnaung, who had already subdued Xieng Mai (Chiang Mai) in 1558 and Ayutthaya in 1564. Setthathirath was a prolific builder and erected many Buddhist monuments including Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang, Haw Phra Kaew, Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan and the Pha That Luang in Vientiane."
Raphael Navarro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The King Setthathirath Statue is located in front of the Phra That Luang complex in Vientiane. You can easily reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or a rented motorbike. Many visitors combine a visit to the statue with the stupa itself. :taxi: :scooter:
Yes, there is usually ample parking available within the Phra That Luang complex or nearby. It's advisable to arrive a bit earlier during peak times to secure a convenient spot. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The King Setthathirath Statue itself is generally accessible without an entrance fee as it's in an open area. However, there might be a small entrance fee for the Phra That Luang stupa complex, which is adjacent. :ticket:
The statue is accessible during daylight hours. The Phra That Luang stupa complex has specific opening hours, typically from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check locally for the most current times. :clock3:
📸 📸 Photography
For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' before sunset provides a warm, beautiful glow on the statue and the surrounding Phra That Luang. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful, especially if monks or religious ceremonies are present. Avoid intrusive photography. :iphone:
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
King Setthathirath (reigned 1534-1571) is considered one of Laos' greatest leaders. He successfully defended the Lan Xang kingdom against invaders and was a significant builder of Buddhist monuments, including Wat Xieng Thong and Pha That Luang. :crown:
The statue honors King Setthathirath's legacy as a defender of Laos and a patron of Buddhism. It stands as a symbol of national pride and historical continuity, located prominently at the sacred Phra That Luang complex. :scroll:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short to maintain young children's attention. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to avoid discomfort. Bringing water and snacks is always a good idea. The open space around the stupa can also be a place for kids to stretch their legs, provided they are supervised and respectful of the religious site. :child:
🏛️ History Buffs
Pairing this visit with an exploration of the Phra That Luang complex is essential. Understand its historical evolution and its importance as a spiritual center. Consider visiting local museums or historical sites in Vientiane to gain a broader context of Lao history and the era in which King Setthathirath reigned. :scroll: :museum:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding King Setthathirath's Legacy
Beyond his military achievements, King Setthathirath was a prolific builder of religious sites. He commissioned numerous Buddhist temples and stupas, many of which remain significant landmarks today. His patronage of Buddhism helped to spread and strengthen the faith throughout the kingdom. The most famous of these constructions include Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang and the iconic Pha That Luang in Vientiane, where his statue now stands.
The statue itself serves as a constant reminder of his contributions. It's a place where locals and visitors alike can reflect on the history of Laos and the enduring spirit of its people. The statue's prominent location at Phra That Luang underscores its importance as a national symbol.
The Significance of Phra That Luang
The stupa is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, making it a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists from Laos and neighboring countries. The main stupa is surrounded by smaller temples and structures, creating a sprawling complex that is both architecturally impressive and spiritually profound. Visitors often remark on the serene atmosphere and the sheer beauty of the golden edifice, especially when illuminated.
Visiting Phra That Luang offers a glimpse into the heart of Lao Buddhism and culture. It's a place for quiet contemplation, admiration of intricate Buddhist art, and understanding the deep spiritual connection the Lao people have with their heritage. The statue of King Setthathirath, standing guard nearby, further enhances the historical and cultural narrative of this significant site.
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