Haw Phra Kaew

Overview

Haw Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) was originally built in 1565 as the royal chapel of King Setthathirath to house the famous Emerald Buddha — which was seized by the Siamese in 1779 and now resides in Bangkok's Grand Palace. Today the restored building serves as a museum of Lao religious art.

Highlights

• Khmer and Lao Sculpture: A superb collection including a Dvaravati-era stone Buddha, Khmer lintel carvings, and bronze Luang Prabang-style standing Buddhas.
• French Colonial Restoration: The current building was reconstructed by the French between 1936 and 1942 on the original foundations.
• Carved Wooden Doors: The massive entrance doors feature intricate flame-motif carvings typical of Lan Xang period artistry.

History

King Setthathirath built the original temple in 1565 when he relocated the Lao capital and brought the Emerald Buddha from Chiang Mai. The temple was destroyed in the 1828 Siamese invasion and lay in ruins until the French colonial administration rebuilt it as a museum in the 1930s and 1940s.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Photography is allowed outside but prohibited in some interior rooms — check signs at the entrance.
• Tip 2: Located directly across from Wat Si Saket, plan to visit both in one session.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.