Ride through the gates of Wat Sokpaluang and you are immediately overcome with a sense of peace and calm.
Also known as Wat Pa (meaning forest temple), this temple is not historically significant like Wat Sisaket or Wat Phiawat but the large forested grounds are lovely and it ranks as one of our favourite temples in Vientiane.
The shady spot is a retreat from the modern world and it’s pleasant to just get off the bicycle and take a meditative stroll around. It’s also a great excuse to venture out of the downtown core.
The buildings are modern constructions and like all wats, there is a sim (congregational hall), drum chapel and monks quarters.
Wat Sokpaluang was known for its traditional sauna, massage and Vipassana Buddhist meditation courses. Sadly, the sauna and massage building burnt down in 2013 and it has not been rebuilt. Meditation class is led by monks in English and it includes both seated and walking meditation. It’s held every Saturday from 16:00 to 17:30, and is free but donations to the temple would be welcome.
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How to get there
Wat Sokpaluang is located 4 kilometres from the city centre on Sokpaluang Road, close to the Germany Embassy. Reach Sokpaluang Road via Khouvieng Road (the same road as the central bus station and COPE Visitor Centre).
By Cindy Fan .
Location map for Wat Sokpaluang
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