That Dam (Black Stupa)
An ancient, bell-shaped stupa steeped in legend, believed to be protected by a mythical seven-headed Naga serpent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat, enjoy cafes
That Dam (Black Stupa)
Best Time
Escape the heat, enjoy cafes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient, bell-shaped stupa steeped in legend, believed to be protected by a mythical seven-headed Naga serpent.
"Its history makes it more interesting but its worth just to stop a second at this calm roundabout and stare at the Stupa."
☕ Cafe Break Essential
When it's hot, enjoy a cold drink at a nearby cafe. Perfect for a midday pause!
🐍 Naga's Protective Lore
Learn about the mythical Naga serpent that's said to protect Vientiane. Adds depth to your visit!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Black Stupa Itself
Center of a roundabout
An ancient, bell-shaped stupa with a mysterious aura, believed to be guarded by a mythical Naga.
Legend of the Naga
Surrounding lore
Discover the fascinating belief that a seven-headed serpent protects Vientiane from crisis.
Cafe Culture
Around the roundabout
Relax in nearby cafes, enjoying cold beverages and observing local life amidst the heat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Heat
A Serpent's Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe Break Essential
When it's hot, enjoy a cold drink at a nearby cafe. Perfect for a midday pause!
🐍 Naga's Protective Lore
Learn about the mythical Naga serpent that's said to protect Vientiane. Adds depth to your visit!
📸 Snap a Quick Pic
It's a unique sight in the middle of a roundabout. Worth a quick photo stop!
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe Break Essential
When it's hot, enjoy a cold drink at a nearby cafe. Perfect for a midday pause!
🐍 Naga's Protective Lore
Learn about the mythical Naga serpent that's said to protect Vientiane. Adds depth to your visit!
📸 Snap a Quick Pic
It's a unique sight in the middle of a roundabout. Worth a quick photo stop!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
That Dam is appreciated for its unique historical presence and the intriguing legend of the Naga serpent. Visitors enjoy its central location and the convenience of nearby cafes for a cool respite. While it's a quick stop, its mythical significance and the blend of ancient architecture with modern Vientiane life make it a memorable landmark.
"I travel from Malaysia to Europe by train, Vientiane Laos is my connecting city, so I stay overnighthere. Please check my YouTube Channel [Lonely Railway Explorer].
Surrounding with many cafe, if daytime really hot, suggest just enjoy cold beverage at the cafe, after visit this temple."
Lonely Railway Explorer
"The Black Stupa located in the middle of a roundabout was a sight to see. Loved it's ancient vibe. It was believed to be inhabited by a 7 headed serpent "Naga" who is a believed to protect Vientiane during crisis."
Aibi Y.
"Its history makes it more interesting but its worth just to stop a second at this calm roundabout and stare at the Stupa"
Arnau Farré
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
That Dam is centrally located in Vientiane, often found in the middle of a roundabout. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or even by walking if you're staying nearby. Many travelers find it a convenient stop during their city exploration.
While Vientiane doesn't have extensive public transport like buses, tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available and affordable for reaching That Dam. It's a common landmark that drivers will know.
Given its location in a roundabout, it's best to approach with caution. Many visitors park nearby and walk to the stupa itself, or view it from the surrounding cafes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, That Dam is a public monument located in a roundabout and does not require an entrance fee. You can view it freely.
As it's an outdoor monument in a public space, That Dam is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
While there's no strict dress code as it's not an active temple, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious or culturally significant sites in Laos. Covering shoulders and knees is a good practice.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the ancient Black Stupa itself, with its unique bell shape. The surrounding area is known for its cafes and the historical lore of the Naga serpent.
Most visitors spend a short time, perhaps 15-30 minutes, to admire the stupa and take photos. Many combine it with a stop at a nearby cafe.
Yes, the Black Stupa offers a unique photographic subject, especially with its unusual location. The surrounding cafes and greenery can also provide interesting backdrops.
That Dam is believed to be the home of a mythical seven-headed Naga serpent, a powerful guardian in Lao beliefs that protected Vientiane.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The area around That Dam is dotted with numerous cafes and restaurants offering both local Lao cuisine and affordable Western food.
You'll find a mix of traditional Lao dishes and international options. Many cafes offer refreshing cold drinks, perfect for Vientiane's climate.
Yes, many of the cafes and local eateries around That Dam are known for being affordable, offering good value for money.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind the heat; plan your visit for cooler parts of the day and be prepared with water and sun protection. It's a brief cultural immersion that can be easily incorporated into a day of exploring Vientiane without requiring extensive walking or attention spans.
💰 Budget Travelers
The real value for budget travelers comes from the surrounding cafes, which offer affordable drinks and snacks. Instead of expensive tours, you can enjoy a local experience by grabbing a cheap Lao coffee or fruit shake and soaking in the atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Naga
The presence of the Naga imbues That Dam with a spiritual significance that transcends its physical form. While the stupa itself is a striking visual, understanding this legend adds a profound layer to the visitor's experience. It connects the monument to the cultural identity and spiritual landscape of Laos, where the Naga is a symbol of power, protection, and continuity.
This rich folklore makes That Dam a compelling site, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Vientiane. It's a reminder that many seemingly simple landmarks hold complex stories and deep cultural meaning for the local population.
Navigating Vientiane's Heat
These cafes provide not only cool, air-conditioned spaces but also refreshing beverages, from iced coffees to local fruit shakes. Many travelers recommend taking advantage of these spots to relax, observe local life, and wait for the temperature to drop before continuing their sightseeing. This 'cafe culture' is a key part of experiencing Vientiane comfortably, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Planning your visit to That Dam for the early morning or late afternoon can also significantly enhance your comfort. These times generally offer milder temperatures, allowing for a more pleasant experience of the stupa and its surroundings without the intense midday heat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit