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That Sikhottabong

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Landmark
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That Sikhottabong (Laos)

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That Sikhottabong, located on the banks of the Mekong River near Thakhek, is a major religious landmark and one of the most sacred stupas in Laos. The site's origins trace back to the 9th century, serving as a spiritual center for the ancient Sikhottabong Kingdom long before the rise of the Lan Xang Empire. The stupa has undergone several major renovations over the centuries, with its current 29-meter-tall profile established during a significant restoration in the 1950s. The monument features a distinctive square base and a gilded spire that reflects the sunlight over the river. It is widely believed to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha, making it a focal point for devotees in central Laos. The surrounding temple grounds include several modern monastic buildings and a large open courtyard for public ceremonies. Every February, during the full moon, the temple hosts the Sikhottabong Festival, a massive gathering involving religious rituals, local markets, and traditional Lao entertainment, celebrating the spiritual heritage of Khammouane province.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C202226282827262625242219
Rain mm91545661712033353342361192313

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
That Sikhottabong is a monumental stupa in Thakhek on the Mekong, open to visitors. The outer area is accessible anytime, while the inner shrine is open only at certain times.
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Typical hours
The stupa is typically open from 8:00 to 17:00, on holidays often until evening. Entry is usually free, donations welcome.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, shots of the gilded spire against the Mekong are especially popular. No flash inside the inner shrine.
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Time needed
A visit takes about 20-30 minutes to enjoy the stupa and Mekong view. For meditation or exploring the area, you may stay an hour.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with nearby Wat Khammouane and Thakhek Cave. A Mekong cruise is also recommended.
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Getting there
The stupa is located right on the Mekong riverbank in Thakhek, just a few minutes' walk from the town center. Reachable by bicycle or tuk-tuk.
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Insider tip
Visit the stupa in the morning when the light is soft and the pilgrim atmosphere is authentic. Bring a small offering such as flowers.

Geography

Coordinates
17.35170, 104.83560

Facts

  • Located 6 km south of Thakhek in Khammouane province.
  • The central stupa stands at a height of 29 meters.
  • Origins date back to the 9th-century Sikhottabong Kingdom.
  • Major renovations were carried out between 1951 and 1959.
  • Regarded as one of the five most sacred stupas in Laos.
  • Positioned strategically on the banks of the Mekong River.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

ThakhekThakhek1 km · WExplore →
Tha Khaek LoopTha Khaek Loop4 km · SExplore →
That SikhottabongThat Sikhottabong9 km · SExplore →
Phou Hin Poun National ParkPhou Hin Poun National Park14 km · WExplore →
Nam Theun 2 Hydropower PlantNam Theun 2 Hydropower Plant19 km · NWExplore →
Khammouane Potash MineKhammouane Potash Mine19 km · NExplore →
Kong Lor CaveKong Lor Cave19 km · SWExplore →
Khammouane KarstKhammouane Karst20 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town That Sikhottabong (3)

Buddiiskii khram⛪ religious

This Buddiiskii khram is a serene local place of worship in the Sikhottabong area, providing a quiet space for spiritual devotion.

Pha That Sikhottabong📍 landmark

Pha That Sikhottabong is a majestic 29-metre-tall Buddhist stupa, highly venerated for supposedly housing the collarbone of Buddha.

Souksomboun Market🎭 culture

Souksomboun Market is a bustling marketplace near the Sikhottabong landmarks, filled with stalls selling local groceries and household items.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Does the stupa offer a good view of the Mekong?
Yes, it is situated directly on the riverbank and provides a scenic view, especially at sunset.
Is That Sikhottabong accessible for wheelchair users?
The outdoor grounds are mostly flat, but access to some buildings may have steps.
What should be kept in mind during the visit?
It is an important pilgrimage site; please be quiet and do not disturb religious rites.
Are there parking spaces for visitors?
Yes, there are ample parking spaces for cars and motorcycles in front of the main entrance.
Can offerings be purchased on site?
Yes, local vendors offer flowers, incense, and candles at the entrance to the temple grounds.
That Sikhottabong: where is it located?
That Sikhottabong is located in Laos.
That Sikhottabong: what is there to see?
Highlights include Buddiiskii khram, Pha That Sikhottabong, Souksomboun Market.
That Sikhottabong: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
That Sikhottabong: why is it worth visiting?
That Sikhottabong, located on the banks of the Mekong River near Thakhek, is a major religious landmark and one of the most sacred stupas in Laos.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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