Ho Phrakeo Museum

Ho Phra Keo Monumental Museum is one of the most beautiful and historically important landmarks in Vientiane. I visited recently, and it turned out to be one of my favorite cultural experiences in Laos. Located right in the heart of the city, near Wat Sisaket and the Presidential Palace, this site offers a quiet escape from the busy streets outside. The moment you step through the gate, the atmosphere becomes peaceful, spiritual, and full of history. The museum was originally built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath to house the Emerald Buddha, which is now kept in Bangkok. Even though the original statue is gone, the temple itself remains a masterpiece of Lao architecture and faith. The main hall is truly stunning, with its tall wooden roof, golden trim, and elegant Naga serpent stairways. The detailed carvings on the doors and windows show the incredible craftsmanship of that era. Every corner of this temple tells a story of devotion and cultural pride. Inside the museum, you’ll find a small but fascinating collection of ancient artifacts. There are beautiful Buddha statues made of bronze, stone, and wood — each from different periods and regions of Laos. Some of them are centuries old, yet still carry a powerful spiritual energy. You can also see ancient manuscripts, ceramics, and traditional ornaments that highlight the deep Buddhist influence in Lao history. Information boards are provided in both Lao and English, making it easy for visitors to understand the background and importance of each piece. The temple grounds are beautifully maintained. The garden area surrounding the main hall is peaceful, full of shady trees and blooming flowers. It’s the perfect spot to sit quietly, take photos, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere. The environment feels spiritual but not overly touristy — ideal for travelers who enjoy meaningful cultural experiences rather than just sightseeing. The entrance fee is very reasonable: 30,000 Kip for foreigners and 5,000 Kip for local visitors. The ticket counter staff are polite and helpful, and they maintain the premises very well. The temple area is clean, organized, and well preserved. I suggest visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and to catch the best light for photos. You can easily spend 30 to 45 minutes here exploring at your own pace. Overall, Ho Phra Keo Monumental Museum is not just a tourist spot; it’s a window into Laos’s royal and spiritual heritage. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, or architecture. The serenity of this place, combined with its historical value, makes it truly special. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this is a destination you shouldn’t miss while in Vientiane.

This place houses a lot of history. It was previously a temple built by King Setthathirat to house the Emerald Buddha after he had moved the capital from Luang Prabang to Vientiane in 1560. The Emerald Buddha was housed in this place for 219 years. In 1779, it was then brought to Thailand. In later years, the temple was then converted to a museum which we now have the luxury of seeing all the artifacts and history it houses. A lovely place to visit when in Vientiane.

nice museum, lovely collection of ancient and 20th century atrefacts. Shame, it's not allowed to take pictures, as there are no publications... 6 times the local price for non Lao citizens

Once a temple that housed the famed Emerald Buddha, Ho Phrakeo carries the weight of centuries in its walls. Originally built in the 16th century, the temple was ransacked by the Siamese in the 18th century. The Emerald Buddha was taken to Bangkok, where it resides to this day. The temple has been rebuilt a few times since then, and though it is no longer a temple, it now stands as a museum showcasing religious art and manuscripts. While its origins as a temple are clear from the architecture, the shift to museum is unmistakable. The grounds include outdoor exhibits highlighting archaeological sites from around Laos, including information on the Plain of Jars, one of the country’s most important prehistoric sites. The building itself is part of the collection. The current structure was reconstructed by the French during the colonial period and later converted into a museum in the 1970s. Lining the exterior are rows of stone and bronze Buddha statues. Many of the doors and arches are adorned with intricate carvings, being art in their own right. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside, so if you want to see the religious artefacts, sculptures, and historical relics it houses, you’ll have to visit in person. But it’s worth it. Ho Phrakeo is a place where the sacred and the historical intersect, a monument to Laos' resilience and spiritual heritage.

Just visited Ho Phra Keo Museum on my first trip to Laos, and I was genuinely moved. The peaceful atmosphere, detailed carvings, and ancient Buddha statues made me feel connected to something timeless. I didn’t expect to learn so much about Lao history and spirituality in one visit. It’s a quiet, beautiful place that really helped me appreciate the deep cultural soul of this country. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a meaningful cultural experience in Vientiane.

Lovely staff and got there on a quite day. Enjoyed a peaceful walk inside looking at artifacts and paying respects to the Buddha sculptures/relics.

This museum is one of the most important former temples in Vientiane. The temple was originally built in 1565 to house the Emerald Buddha now in Bangkok. For anyone interested in Buddhist statues and artifacts, this is a must see whilst in Vientiane. There are always many tourists who visit here daily.

Ho Phra Keo Museum (also known as Haw Phra Kaew or Hophakaew Museum) in Vientiane: --- 🏛️ Museum at a Glance Origins: Built in 1565 by King Setthathirath to house the sacred Emerald Buddha, which now resides in Bangkok’s Grand Palace . Rebuilt: The temple was destroyed during Siamese invasions (1779 & 1828) and most recently rebuilt between 1936–1942 by the French, based on original plans . Converted to Museum: Transitioned into a museum in the 1970s, showcasing Lao religious art instead of serving as an active temple . --- 🎨 What You’ll See Inside A curated collection of Buddha statues: stone figures dating from the 6th–9th centuries and later bronze and seated statues . Khmer stone steles, ornate wood carvings (including ancient lacquered doors), a gilded throne made for the Emerald Buddha, bronze frog drums, and palm-leaf manuscripts . In the garden: a 2,000-year-old stone jar from Laos’s famous Plain of Jars, plus serene landscaped surroundings . --- ⏰ Visiting Info Location: Setthathirat Road, at the intersection with Mahasot Road, opposite Wat Si Saket and near the Presidential Palace . Hours: Typically open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM—some sources note a midday break (e.g., 8 AM–12 PM & 1–4 PM) . Admission Fee: About 30,000 kip for foreign visitors, and 5,000 kip for locals . Photography Policy: No photographs or videos allowed inside the main sim building; exterior photography is generally permitted . --- 🌿 Tips & Highlights Combine Nearby Visits: Wat Si Saket is directly across the street—both can be visited in one go. Also close to the Presidential Palace and gardens . Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon keeps you cool and avoids crowds. The gardens offer peaceful shade and seating under the national tree . Visitor Perspective: Reviewers praise the museum for its tranquil ambience and historic artifacts, though some comment that interior displays can be sparse or underlit . --- ✅ Summary Table Feature Details Built 1565 (rebuilt 1942) Original role Royal temple housing Emerald Buddha Current use Religious art museum Collection highlights Ancient statues, Khmer art, lotus manuscripts, and more Gardens Stone jars, landscaped peaceful courtyard Hours ~8 AM–5 PM (often with midday closure) Entry fee ~30,000 kip (foreigners), ~5,000 kip (locals) Photo policy No photography/video inside