Top Things To Do In Wat Si Saket (Vientiane) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Wat Si Saket

1. 1. Guided Historical Tour

   The Guided Historical Tour of Wat Si Saket is your opportunity to step back in time within the walls of Vientiane's oldest surviving temple. Built by King Anouvong in 1818, this temple showcases Siamese influences uncommon in the region. As you wander the cloister walls lined with thousands of Buddha images, the serenity and spiritual ambiance of the place are almost palpable. The temple serves as a museum, illustrating the history of Buddhism in Laos. Visitors can admire the detailed murals, the intricately carved wooden features, and the array of statues in different sizes and styles that date back to the 16th century. The knowledgeable guides will enlighten you with stories and facts about the temple's architecture, the significance of the various Buddha poses, and the temple's history, including its survival of the Siamese-Lao war in the 19th century which left much of Vientiane in ruins.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: $10 per person

2. 2. Meditation Retreat

   Dive into the tranquility of Laotian spirituality by participating in a Meditation Retreat at Wat Si Saket. The temple offers a serene setting designed to facilitate mindfulness and inner peace. The retreat is led by experienced monks who provide guidance on meditation techniques suited to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Surrounded by the temple's unique atmosphere with its ancient Buddha figures silently witnessing your journey within, participants will find it easier to focus and reach deeper states of meditation. The program often includes mindful walking around the temple grounds, silent seated meditation, and teachings reflecting on Buddhist principles. Engaging in this meditative experience not only provides spiritual insight but also offers a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

   Duration: 3 hours · Price: $30 per person

3. 3. Laotian Cultural Immersion Workshop

   The Laotian Cultural Immersion Workshop is an engaging activity for visitors interested in learning about the rich traditions and customs of Laos. Hosted at Wat Si Saket, this workshop offers hands-on experiences where participants can try their hand at Laotian arts and crafts, like traditional weaving or sa paper-making. The experience is enriched with lessons about the historical and cultural significance of each craft, linking them to the spiritual traditions often practiced within the temple's grounds. Additionally, cultural performances such as folk dances and music can be included, providing a comprehensive cultural encounter. Expert artisans lead the activities, ensuring that attendees not only observe but also create and participate in the living culture of Laos.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: $25 per person

4. 4. Photography Expedition

   The Photography Expedition at Wat Si Saket presents photographers, from amateurs to professionals, with the perfect setting to capture the timeless charm of one of Laos' most important heritage sites. The temple's architecture with its ornate carvings, rows of seated Buddha statues, and aged murals offers a myriad of subjects for the keen-eyed shutterbug. The unique morning light provides a soft glow that accentuates the mystical ambiance of the temple, making it an ideal time for photography. Participants receive guidance on how to make the most of the light and surroundings to capture stunning images. Additionally, photographers are given historical insights, making it not just a visual journey but also an educational one.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Free with temple entry

5. 5. Monk Chat

   A Monk Chat at Wat Si Saket is a rare opportunity for visitors to engage in a personal conversation with a Buddhist monk. This informal dialogue allows for a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings, monastic life, and Laotian culture from a personal perspective. It's a chance to ask questions and share experiences in a respectful setting. The monks, often proficient in English, are open to discussing a wide range of subjects, including daily routines, meditation practices, and philosophical concepts. This insightful exchange not only educates but also bridges cultural gaps, creating a memorable experience for visitors seeking more than just sightseeing. It encourages a mutual exchange where both visitors and monks learn from each other's worldview.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with temple entry, donations welcome

6. 6. Traditional Laotian Cuisine Workshop

   Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in the flavors of Laos with the Traditional Laotian Cuisine Workshop at Wat Si Saket. The workshop is a hands-on cooking class where participants learn to prepare authentic Lao dishes under the guidance of local chefs. Focusing on traditional recipes and cooking techniques, this activity also often includes a visit to a nearby market to select fresh ingredients. Back in the temple's kitchen, attendees work alongside the chefs to create dishes such as Laap (minced meat salad), sticky rice, and the famed Lao papaya salad. The experience culminates in a communal meal where everyone can savor the results of their labor in the historic and peaceful backdrop of the temple grounds.

   Duration: 4 hours · Price: $35 per person

7. 7. Sunset Yoga Sessions

   Experience the merging of physical wellness and spiritual serenity with the Sunset Yoga Sessions at Wat Si Saket. As the sun descends and casts a warm hue over the temple, these outdoor classes provide a unique ambiance for practicing yoga. Led by experienced instructors, the sessions are suitable for all levels of practitioners. The sequences are thoughtfully designed to align with the calming atmosphere, encouraging participants to find balance and harmony within themselves. The soothing sounds of the evening and the gentle breeze of Vientiane set the stage for an uplifting and peaceful yoga practice. Sunset Yoga Sessions at this historic site not only promote relaxation and flexibility but also create an unforgettable memory of wellness in a sacred space.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: $20 per person

8. 8. Calligraphy Class

   The Calligraphy Class at Wat Si Saket invites visitors to immerse themselves in the artistic side of Laotian culture. Amidst the temple's peaceful environment, participants learn the delicate art of Laotian script under the guidance of skilled local artists. The class begins with an introduction to the tools and techniques used in traditional calligraphy, including the proper way to hold the brush and the flow of the strokes. Through hands-on practice, attendees will attempt to replicate the elegant curves and lines that make up the unique characters of the Lao language. This meditative and skillful craft not only yields beautiful artwork but also provides a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of written language in Laos.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: $15 per person

9. 9. Religious Ceremony Participation

   Participate in a Religious Ceremony at Wat Si Saket to witness and be part of traditional Lao Buddhist practices. Visitors have the rare chance to observe rituals like the Baci ceremony, which is performed to wish good luck and harmony, or to participate in almsgiving—a daily morning ritual where locals give food to the monks. Engaging in these ceremonies offers an intimate look at the spiritual practices that are at the core of Laotian life. The experience is both humbling and eye-opening, allowing for spiritual reflection and a greater connection with the local community. Participation is typically conducted with the guidance of the temple staff, ensuring that visitors are respectful and understand the significance of the rituals in which they are taking part.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Free, donations encouraged

10. 10. Herbal Medicine Introduction

    Discover ancient healing traditions with the Herbal Medicine Introduction at Wat Si Saket. The temple, with its long history, serves as a serene background for learning about the traditional use of herbs in Laotian medicinal practices. Participants will be introduced to the basics of herbal medicine by local experts, who explain how different herbs are used to treat various ailments. The workshop also offers practical insights, such as how to prepare herbal remedies and the philosophies behind holistic healing practices. This educational activity emphasizes a connection to nature and traditional wisdom, aiming to equip visitors with knowledge that has been passed down through generations within Laos.

    Duration: 1 hour · Price: $18 per person