Wat Phu Champasak

Wat Phu in lao's language means temple located in the mountain, but this temple is not like any ordinary temples that have been found in Laos so far.

It has unique features and its structures are very similar to the Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Therefore, this temple is very unique, special and is a sacred place for Lao people to pray and worship. People all over the country and around the world come here to visit the site every day.

Located about 13km from Champassak city's center and about 6km from the Mekong river and part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, Wat Phu is one of the most amazing temples in Laos.

Every day tourists from over the country and overseas visits the site regularly and the numbers are ever increasing every year.

According to history, this temple is believed to be built in the 5th century by Suryavarman II (who was also responsible for the construction of Angkor Wat). Today thistemple site has become the worship place of Lao people from all over the country.

Wat Phu Festival:

Usually in early February where the frangipanis are in full bloom, there is a festival celebration which draws a big crowd from over the country and Thailand and last for 3 days. According to Lao calendar is on the full moon of the third lunar month.

Festivities include children fun rides, games, elephant racing, water buffalo and cock fighting, music and dancing show.This is considered to be the biggest festival in Champassak, so come and enjoy the fun.

How to get there:

Wat Phu is stuated between Parkse and Si Phan Don. You can get there by car or by boat but if you are already in Champasack city getting to the temple is very easy.

There are bus services going there every day, but if you're hurry you can hire a Tuk-Tuk which only takes 15-20 minutes to get there. If you're planning to take a bicycle ride there, make sure you wear a hat as there is no shade along the road. The temple is located only 13km southwest of Champassak city center, the road is straight and sealed so cycling there is fun and easy. There are plenty of shops along the roads selling food and drink. A bicycle can be rented from the guest house for 5000 kip per day.

Watch video about Wat Phu below:

Official opening time:
From 8:30am - 16:30pm
Entrance fee: 5000 kips
A brochure in English and French is available at the ticket office for only 5000 kips and it worths having one.

Where to stay:

In the city center near the Fountain circle most of the guest houses are located near and around that area. There are rooms start from 25 baths (Thai currency) to 125 baths. Rooms with air conditioning starting from US$17 to US$25.

Bank

Lao Development bank has a branch in the city and they'll cash travellers cheques for $US.They charge $US2 commission per note. If you cash Lao kip you receive special rate without commission.

Communication - Internet

In Champasak there's only one internet cafe located south of Vong Paseuth guest house. The Internet Nam Ohy, they charge 300 kip per minute with complimentary drink.