Experts' Choice Award Wat Si Muang
What the experts agree on
Wat Si Muang draws visitors primarily for its legendary city pillar and spiritual significance as Vientiane's guardian spirit home, rather than architectural splendor. The 1563 temple remains culturally vital to locals despite modest aesthetics.
Fodor's "This wat that dates to 1563—its last major renovation was in 1956—guards the original city pillar, a revered foundation stone also from the 16th century." Full review
Lonely Planet "The most frequently used grounds in Vientiane are those of Wat Si Muang, the site of the lák méuang (city pillar), which is considered the home of the guardian spirit of Vientiane." Full review
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If your request is granted, then you are supposed to return later with an offering of bananas, green coconuts, flowers, incense and candles (usually two of each).
Frommer's "This temple is more interesting for its story than for its architecture." Full review
