Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan - a bee on a leaf
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Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan

4.5
·498 reviews·Vientiane, Laos

A serene 16th-century temple in Vientiane, home to the 'Heavy Buddha' and a center for Buddhist learning.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning prayers

Witness local devotion

CrowdMedium
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Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan - a bee on a leaf

Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan

Best Time

Morning prayers

Witness local devotion

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 16th-century temple in Vientiane, home to the 'Heavy Buddha' and a center for Buddhist learning.

4.5
(498 reviews)

"A welcome respite with an air of tranquility, offering a glimpse into local worship and inner peace."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for showing respect at this active place of worship.

💧 Water Blessing

Kind monks may offer a 'nam man' water blessing for good luck.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Phra Ong Teu Buddha Statue

Phra Ong Teu Buddha Statue

Marvel at the enormous bronze Buddha, radiating peace with intricate details and flowing robes.

Ordination Hall (Ubosot)

Ordination Hall (Ubosot)

Admire the lofty and impressive Ordination Hall, a central hub for worshipers and lay people.

Lao Buddhist Institute

Lao Buddhist Institute

Discover the historical significance of this important school for Theravada Buddhism, active since 1929.

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Planning Your Visit

Dress Respectfully

As a place of worship, modest attire is essential. Cover your shoulders and knees to show respect. This is a common courtesy for visiting temples in Laos.

Embrace Tranquility

Wat Ong Teu offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Arrive with an open mind to appreciate its spiritual atmosphere and local charm.

Best Times

When
Morning prayers
Why
Witness local devotion
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Quiet reflection time
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🧥 Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for showing respect at this active place of worship. Reddit

💧 Water Blessing

Kind monks may offer a 'nam man' water blessing for good luck. Reddit

🐘 Entrance Elephants

Admire the beautiful elephant statues guarding the entrance gates. Reddit

✨ Amulets Available

You can find amulets here for good fortune. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for showing respect at this active place of worship. Reddit

💧 Water Blessing

Kind monks may offer a 'nam man' water blessing for good luck. Reddit

🐘 Entrance Elephants

Admire the beautiful elephant statues guarding the entrance gates. Reddit

✨ Amulets Available

You can find amulets here for good fortune. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(498 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wat Ong Teu for its serene atmosphere and the impressive Phra Ong Teu Buddha statue. Many appreciate the lack of large tourist crowds, finding it a genuine place for local worship and reflection. While some found the prayer hall closed, the overall experience is described as peaceful and spiritually enriching.

"Wat Ong Teu is one of the largest temple in Vientiane city. Daily morning prayers are conducted by 3 monks and many locals attend this prayer with offering of food and drinks for the temple. Definitely worth a visit. Please wear appropriately as a form of self respect."

Robin CHAN

"Wat Ong Tue, the temple of the Heavy Buddha, is an historic temple in Vientiane.
Wat Ong Tue is the home of the Lao Buddhist Institute since 1929 and an.important school for Theravada Buddhism.
The lofty Ordination Hall is particularly impressive and is open everyday for worshipers and lay people alike."

Nigel Fowler Sutton

"Nestled amongst the bustling streets of Vientiane, Wat Ong Teu offered a welcome respite. It wasn't the grandest temple I'd seen in Laos, but it had a certain charm. Maybe it was the air of tranquility that settled over me as I stepped into the courtyard. The scent of incense hung lightly in the air, and the only sounds were the soft murmurs of prayer and the occasional chirp of a bird.

The main attraction, as the name suggests, is the enormous Phra Ong Teu Buddha statue. It wasn't just the size that impressed me, but the intricate details. The robes seemed to flow naturally, and the expression on the Buddha's face radiated a sense of peace. I spent a good amount of time just sitting in front of it, letting the calmness wash over me.

While Wat Ong Teu might not have the tourist crowds of some of the other temples, I found that to be a plus. It felt more like a place for local worshipers, a glimpse into their daily practice. I watched a group of women kneel in prayer, their faces etched with devotion. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the spiritual significance these temples hold.

Overall, Wat Ong Teu might not be a top-of-the-list attraction, but it left a lasting impression on me. It's a place to slow down, appreciate the beauty of Buddhist art, and maybe even find a little inner peace yourself."

Thanh Hảo Lê

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Impressive Buddha statue
Local worship feel

What People Dislike

Prayer hall sometimes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Ong Teu is located in the heart of Vientiane city. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of the city. Walking is also an option if you are staying nearby. The temple is nestled amongst the bustling streets, making it accessible via local transport. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, you can usually find space for motorbikes and sometimes cars on the streets surrounding the temple. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure a convenient spot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Wat Ong Teu is generally free. However, donations are always appreciated to help with the temple's upkeep and the monks' welfare. Reddit

The temple grounds are typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon. The Ordination Hall is open for worshipers and lay people alike. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the iconography. Reddit

Yes, a modest dress code is strictly enforced. Visitors must cover their shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred nature of the temple. Avoid revealing clothing. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main draw is the enormous Phra Ong Teu Buddha statue, known as the 'Heavy Buddha'. Its size and intricate details are captivating, and it radiates a profound sense of peace. Reddit

You can witness daily morning prayers conducted by monks, often attended by locals offering food. Some visitors have also received a 'nam man' water blessing from a monk. Reddit

Compared to some other temples, Wat Ong Teu often has fewer tourist crowds, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience. It feels more like a place for local worship. Reddit

Besides the main Buddha, you can explore other shrines, smaller glittering buildings, and the beautiful white stone 'lucky Buddha' in the garden. The elephants at the entrance gates are also noteworthy. Reddit

Absolutely. The temple is described as a beautiful wat for reflection and meditation, offering a welcome respite and a sense of tranquility. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no food stalls or restaurants directly within the temple grounds. However, Vientiane city has numerous dining options nearby. You can find local eateries and cafes just a short walk away. Reddit

Yes, locals often attend morning prayers with offerings of food and drinks for the monks. If you wish to participate, it's best to observe local customs and offer simple, appropriate food items. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed on the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to be discreet, especially during prayer times or when monks are present. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Capture the grandeur of the Phra Ong Teu Buddha, the intricate details of the Ordination Hall, the elephant statues at the entrance, and the serene atmosphere of the temple courtyards. The 'lucky Buddha' in the garden is also a unique photo opportunity. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Ong Teu can be a peaceful outing for families. While the main draw is the large Buddha statue, children might also be fascinated by the elephant statues at the entrance and the 'lucky Buddha' in the garden. The temple's tranquil atmosphere can offer a calm break from more active sightseeing. Remember to ensure children are dressed modestly and understand the importance of quiet behavior within the temple grounds. Reddit

It's a good opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and religious practices in a respectful manner. The lack of overwhelming crowds can make it easier for families to navigate and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Pack water and snacks, as dining options are limited within the temple itself. Reddit

🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers seeking a moment of peace, Wat Ong Teu is an ideal destination. The temple's serene ambiance, coupled with the calming presence of the Phra Ong Teu Buddha, provides an excellent setting for reflection and meditation. You might even have the chance to receive a water blessing from a monk, adding a unique spiritual dimension to your visit. Reddit

The relatively low tourist traffic means you can immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere without distraction. It's a place to slow down, observe local devotion, and connect with the quiet energy of the temple. The historical significance as a center for Buddhist learning also adds a rich context for contemplation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the 'Heavy Buddha'

Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan is renowned for its Phra Ong Teu Buddha statue, which translates to 'Heavy Buddha'. This colossal bronze figure is not just impressive for its size but also for the intricate craftsmanship that brings its serene expression to life. Visitors often describe spending a significant amount of time simply sitting in its presence, absorbing the palpable sense of peace it emanates. The statue is a central focus of devotion and a testament to the artistic and spiritual heritage of the region. Reddit

Beyond its visual appeal, the statue embodies a deep spiritual significance for devotees. It serves as a focal point for meditation and prayer, offering a tangible connection to Buddhist teachings. The temple itself, housing this magnificent icon, has been a center for Buddhist learning and practice for centuries, making the Phra Ong Teu statue a symbol of enduring faith and cultural identity. Reddit

A Hub for Buddhist Learning

Since 1929, Wat Ong Teu has been home to the Lao Buddhist Institute, establishing it as a vital center for Theravada Buddhism in Laos. This historical role underscores the temple's importance beyond its architectural beauty and iconic statues. It's a place where monks are trained and where Buddhist philosophy and practices are preserved and propagated. Reddit

This academic and spiritual function means that Wat Ong Teu is not just a tourist attraction but a living, breathing institution. Visitors may have the opportunity to observe monks in their daily routines, including morning prayers and the receiving of alms, offering a glimpse into the disciplined life of Buddhist clergy. The presence of the institute adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience, highlighting the temple's ongoing contribution to the spiritual landscape of Laos. Reddit

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