Xieng Khuan, or Buddha Park, is an exceptionally interesting cultural site in proximity to Vientiane, Laos. This destination is a large open-air statue park with over 200 beautiful statues that reflect Buddhist and Hindu culture. Located a short way from the centre of Vientiane, Buddha Park combines elements of spirituality, art, and surreal architecture.
In this travel guide, Vietnamtour.in will show you what makes Buddha Park special and how to plan your visit with ease.
Introduction to Buddha Park
Roughly 28 km east of Vientiane, you will discover a large collection of many different types of Buddha Statues referred to as “Buddha Park”. This collection contains over 200 unique and mysterious Buddha Statues that combine elements from both Hindu and Buddhist styles. Visiting Buddha Park is considered one of the top experiences that should not be missed when visiting Laos.
Buddha Park also has easy access to the beautiful Mekong River and is a large source of tourist income worldwide. Though Buddha Park is generally known to locals as “Wat Xiengkuane” (meaning “temple”), it cannot technically be classified as a temple because the majority of the Buddha Statues in this park are not worshipped by the majority of the local Buddhist population.
History of Buddha Park
Buddha Park was constructed in Laos’ capital city, Vientiane, in 1958 by monk Luang Pu Bounleua Sulilat. The park was a spiritual collaboration between Buddhism and Hinduism; as a result of this collaboration, many of the statues at Buddha Park represent Hindu deities in addition to representing Buddha’s teachings.
Many of the decorative motifs on the statues at Buddha Park are unique, creating odd looks on the sculptures of both gods and people, along with other creatures such as demons, etc. Most of the statues’ representations derive from Buddhist teachings, such as those of Avalokiteśvara or the various bodhisattvas; however, the statues within Buddha Park also include representations of Hinduism, such as Arjuna and Vishnu, along with Shiva.
Over the course of the last fifty years, Buddha Park has remained a major tourist attraction within Laos, and with Laos’ current period of rapid tourism growth between 2026 and 2030, Buddha Park will likely become even more popular, further elevating it to prominence among international tourists.
Unmissable Experiences when Visiting Buddha Park
Taking some time to watch the best moments at Buddha Park will also help you understand and realise the spiritual value and intentions of this incredible place. There are some experiences you should not miss because you want to feel the unique aura of Buddha Park.
Climbing to the Pumpkin-Shaped Buddha Tower
The largest sculpture in Buddha Park is the Buddha Tower. The tower is about 15 meters high, and is designed in the shape of a pumpkin. Inside, the tower consists of three separate floors representing heaven (the upper floor), earth (the middle floor) and hell (the lower floor).
The main entrance is through the mouth of a demon, approximately 3 metres tall. The inside of the tower is completely made from concrete, with many sculptures on the walls. To get to the upper levels, visitors must use a narrow, steep staircase with no railing. Visitors can have a panoramic view of the entire Buddha park in Laos from the top of the Pumpkin Tower.
Checking in at the Reclining Buddha Statue
Buddha Park’s Reclining Buddha Statue is 40 meters long, which makes it the park’s biggest sculpture and a major attraction for visitors to the park; in front of the huge statue is a small altar where visitors who are on a pilgrimage can say their prayers.
The Reclining Buddha is shown lying with a peaceful look on his face. The expression on the face of the Reclining Buddha is that he has no worries, as he has a gentle smile on his lips and eyes that are half closed. Visitors to the statue enjoy taking pictures of themselves with the statue as a keepsake from Buddha Park.
The garden area around this statue is full of trees and plants, which helps to provide a nice, cool atmosphere in the park. The statues displayed in this large open area, which is also very calm and airy, tell guests about the history of the people and culture of Laos through their unique shapes.
Admiring Other Hindu & Buddhist Combination Works
Beyond focusing solely on Buddhist statues, the Lao Buddha Park also features Hindu deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, reflecting a diverse religious landscape. These works showcase a harmonious blend of the two major religions, contributing to a unique religious park in Southeast Asia.
In addition to religious sculptures, large sculptures of mythical creatures such as dragons, mythical animals, and hybrid animal-human beings contribute to the overall atmosphere of mystery and the curiosity of visitors to the park.
Discovering the Fresh Green Space of Buddha Park
Budha Park isn’t just about great statues but also has a peaceful atmosphere that adds to the park’s beauty with its statues and natural elements like water and plants; this combination forms a beautiful symbiosis of Natural Paradise along the majestic banks of the Mekong River. However, the numerous trees located within the park have created an environment that does not offer enough shade.
Listening to Explanations about the Legends behind the Artworks
In Buddha Park, visitors are able to take pictures and find answers to their questions about the legends behind the various statues, their respective symbolic meanings, and the significant myths connected with them. By engaging with these informational resources, they’ll learn to understand how important these pieces of art are in regard to the spiritual legacy of the Lao people and the surrounding area.
Through tour guides or informational brochures, visitors can discover all aspects of the pieces of art and mystical symbolism, and mythical story connections. In general, the visitor will have a much better, more complete experience when they visit Xieng Khuan.
Enjoying Local Cuisine Near the Park
When visiting Laos, stop by and get snacks near the park. Snack stands with fruits, toasted bread, and traditional Lao treats will allow you to enjoy a culturally new experience while savouring the local tastes.
It will also create an opportunity to meet with residents, which will improve your understanding of their culture, way of living, and daily routine. This exceptional food experience will make your trip enjoyable and memorable.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
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Opening hours: The park is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. You should allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the statues in the park.
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Entrance Fees: Visitors need to buy tickets to enter Buddha Park; the entrance fee is 5,000 KIP (approximately 20 INR), and an additional 3,000 KIP (12.5 INR) is charged if you want to take photos inside. Parking costs around 3,000 KIP (12.5 INR).
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Best time to visit:
The best times to visit Buddha Park are early morning when the weather is cooler, and light is better suited for photography; Avoid visiting around midday, since when the sun is directly overhead, it makes walking around difficult and uncomfortable due to the heat.
If you are on a guided tour, check with your tour operator to see if there is a time available for you that allows you adequate time to fully experience the park without feeling rushed or missing out on the park’s main points of interest.
How to Travel to Buddha Park
If you want to visit Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khuan), you need to travel southeast from Vientiane for about 25km on Thanon Thadeua Road. This is the same road leading to the Friendship Bridge connecting Thailand and Laos, but you only need to travel 6km. You can choose one of three transportation options to get to Wat Xieng Khuan:
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Bus number 14 departs from Talat Sao station in central Vientiane from 6:00 to 17:00, with a bus every 20 minutes, and the fare is 6,000 KIP (approximately 25 INR). Please note that the last bus leaves Wat Xieng Khuan at 16:45.
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If you want to hire a tuk-tuk, you can negotiate the price of around 100,000 KIP (approximately 416 INR) for a round trip.
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If you enjoy freedom and exploration, you can rent a bicycle for around 60,000 KIP (approximately 250 INR) per day, or a scooter/ motorbike for approximately 100,000 KIP (416 INR) per day.
Buddha Park Nearby Attractions & 1 Day Suggested Itinerary
A full-day trip to Buddha Park is quite simple, especially for those who wish to explore the area at a leisurely pace outside of Vientiane’s bustling downtown core. Several small local villages surrounding the park are well worth visiting for their quiet river views and unique temples (many of which aren’t well known) that most travellers will miss.
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Morning
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) is a wonderful place to see and experience in the morning. The weather is cooler, the sun is not too bright yet, and the park seems much quieter and more peaceful than later in the day when many tour groups arrive. It usually takes about 1-2 hours to tour the park and enjoy the different sculptures, climb to the top of the giant pumpkin, and spend time at the various statues that interest you.
Head out of the park. Continue toward the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge. Pause along the Mekong River to view the most tranquil portion of the river. It is characterised by a slow pace of living, as evidenced by local fishermen casting nets into the waters, and residents taking a break from work or other activities to relax by the riverbank. It is an ideal spot to take your time before continuing on to your lunch meal.
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Lunch and Afternoon
Pick a restaurant on a river for lunch; the food is inexpensive and generally consists of simple dishes that you eat while enjoying a beautiful view of the river.
Afterwards, travel back toward Vientiane with a stop at an authentic Laotian village located along the river. If time permits, visit Wat That Luang Tai. It is a tranquil temple that is very different from the many touristy sites within Vientiane.
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Late Afternoon
Come back to Vientiane in the late afternoon and have a leisurely day. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or take a stroll along the Mekong River as the sun sets.
For those who want a more relaxed and convenient trip, joining a package tour from reputable agencies like Vietnamtour.in is a suitable option. Tours often combine Laos attractions with other destinations in countries like Vietnam and Cambodia.
Things You Should Know before Visiting Buddha Park
For a smooth and pleasurable, as well as meaningful, experience on this trip, the following are some tips that will assist you in being better prepared when venturing into this park.
- It is advisable that you have the basic items with you, including water, sun protection lotions, hats, and a light coat. It is very important that you have water with you, especially with the size of the park, which will require so much walking. On the other hand, sun protection lotions will protect you from the ultraviolet rays from the sun, which could be intense during the peak sun hours.
- At the same time, if you would like to take photographs too, it is important to have your mobile or camera equipment ready with you to capture lovely pictures.
- Since this is a religious site, it is essential to dress appropriately while visiting the site, as you will be required to wear clothes that will not raise eyebrows or go against the dress code as instructed by the religious text.
- Some main services offered in the park, such as ticketing, eating, or purchasing souvenirs, can require cash. Thus, you must have some small cash.
Conclusion
Buddha Park boasts a stunning blend of mountains and the majestic Mekong River. Visitors are captivated by its peaceful beauty, unique architecture, and numerous historical sites. Especially during year-end festivals, Buddha Park attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan a family trip with Vietnamtour.in to Laos and Indochina Countries now to experience this tranquil and refreshing setting!
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