HelpALittleDavid's Blog · Loving Laos

Laos is renowned for its stunning temples, or wats. These sacred sites offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. Visiting temples, which is difficult to avoid in Laos gives insights into many parts of life here.

1. Architectural Marvels: Lao temples are renowned for their intricate architecture and stunning golden spires. The blend of traditional Lao and Thai architectural styles creates a unique and visually striking aesthetic.
2. Spiritual Serenity: Temples are places of worship and meditation. Spending time in a serene temple environment can be a calming and rejuvenating experience. I have a few favourite wats and usually, it is only me inside the sim – what a peaceful experience giving me time to reflect and pray.
3. Historical Significance: Many Lao temples have a rich history, dating back centuries. Some temples house ancient relics, murals, and statues that offer a glimpse into the past as well as cultural insights.
4. Photo Opportunities: The stunning architecture, serene surroundings, and vibrant colors make temples ideal for photography too. Capture unforgettable moments.

There are a few things you need to know before entering a temple.

• Dress Respectfully: Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Remove Your Shoes: Before entering the temple, remove your shoes and leave them at the designated area.
• Maintain Silence: Speak softly and avoid loud noises to respect the sacred atmosphere.
• Offer a Donation: Many temples rely on donations to maintain their upkeep. Consider making a small donation to support the temple.

By following these guidelines and immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of a Lao temple, you can gain a deeper understanding of Lao culture and spirituality.

The morning in a Lao temple begins with a sacred ritual known as “Tak Bat.” Devout Buddhists line the streets before dawn, offering alms to the saffron-robed monks who walk silently by. This act of giving is believed to bring merit and blessings to the giver. The monks, in turn, use these offerings to sustain their simple lifestyle, focusing on their spiritual practices.  

And, as the day draws to a close, the temple comes alive with the sound of evening chanting. Monks gather in the main hall, their voices harmonizing in a soothing melody. This evening ritual, known as “Tham Teuad,” is a time for reflection, meditation, and the recitation of Buddhist scriptures. The chanting fills the temple with a sense of peace and tranquility, inviting worshippers to join in or simply listen and absorb the spiritual energy. If you visit during Tham Teuan you should sit at the back and definitely be dressed appropriately.

In many Lao temples, you’ll find a unique practice involving fortune sticks and paper oracles. These are wooden sticks with numbered compartments, each containing a small piece of paper with a fortune or message.

To seek guidance, visitors will shake the box of sticks until one falls out. The number on the stick corresponds to a numbered drawer containing the fortune. The message, often poetic and cryptic, can offer advice, predictions, or simply a moment of reflection.

These fortune-telling practices are deeply rooted in Lao culture and belief. They are seen as a way to connect with the spiritual realm and seek wisdom from a higher power.

Culture, Laos, Luang Prabang, Monks, Temple

By David

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