Wat In Paeng

Overview

Wat In Paeng is one of the most beautifully decorated temples in old Vientiane, renowned for its vivid interior murals and exquisite wood carvings. Though less visited than Wat Si Saket, its artistic detail rewards attentive visitors.

Highlights

• Interior Murals: The sim walls are covered with vivid murals depicting scenes from the Jataka tales and Lao Buddhist cosmology, painted in a folk-art style.
• Wood-Carved Facades: The front wall of the sim features deeply carved wooden panels showing devatas, nagas, and floral motifs with traces of original gilding.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Located on a side street, the temple receives few foreign visitors and offers a peaceful contrast to busier sites.

History

Wat In Paeng was rebuilt after the 1828 Siamese destruction and subsequently restored several times. The current murals date from the 19th to early 20th century and represent a unique Vientiane school of Buddhist art that blends Lao, Thai, and Khmer artistic traditions.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Ask at the main building if the sim is locked — monks are happy to open it for visitors.
• Tip 2: Combine with a walk to nearby Wat Ong Teu and Wat Mixai for a temple-hopping morning.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.