Wat Ho Phra Keo Tourism

Wat Ho Phra Keo is a highly venerated temple in Vientiane, Laos, built in 1565 by the command of King Setthathirath. Originally, it housed the famed Emerald Buddha, which was taken from Lanna (Northern Thailand). However, the temple's significance is derived from its history as a royal temple, which functioned as a private chapel for Lao kings and a repository for sacred Buddhist objects. Despite being called 'Wat', the temple no longer houses any monks and is now a museum. The Emerald Buddha remained in the temple until 1779 when it was seized by the Siamese as spoils of war and taken to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Wat Ho Phra Keo has been rebuilt several times due to invasions and destruction over centuries, with the present structure reflecting a reconstruction effort in the 1930s by the French colonial authorities, adhering to the temple's original design. Its architecture is remarkable, featuring a high roof, intricately carved wooden panels, and a façade rich with detailed features. The temple also showcases a collection of Buddhist art, including sculptures, engravings, and paintings that detail Laos’ religious history.