2011, DEC 24: LAOS, VIENTIANE-City A

Next we visited the 144ft high, gold-covered Pha That Luang Stupa. It is the country’s national symbol.

It is believed that a 3rd century temple stood at this site, which had been built by people of Indian origin. Like Wat Ong Teu, it was rebuilt during the Laotian Golden Age, in 1566 by King Setthathirat. The king is depicted in the statue in front.

The stupa has been destroyed and rebuilt a few times, since then.

On the second level there are 30 small stupas, representing 30 stages to enlightenment.

There are some shrines and statues in the first courtyard surrounding the stupa.

We also visited Wat That Luang Tai nearby. During the day time, its exterior wall is lined with vendors.

The temple has meeting halls and shrines.

I ran into two children playing in the temple compound.

Then we moved on to Patuxay, the Victory Monument, located at the city center.

Modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, it was completed in 1968, as a memorial to those who fought for the country’s independence from the French.

Ceilings and arches are richly decorated.

Among others, the ceiling also depicts Hindu gods (L-R) Vishnu, Brahma and Indra.

It offers good views of the city from the top

Many people visit it every day.