We are staying near by to this temple and overhead symbols being played around 5pm. We decided to go in and see what was happening. Lucky for us we managed to enter the temple as the young training Buddhas entered to chant so we entered whilst they chanted for about 1 hour before leaving and it was the most moving experience they offered us water as we sat at the back of the ceremony and felt included. Once we left we took some amazing pictures of the grounds it was truly beautiful. Recommend a visit even if you feel apprehensive like we did at the beginning

It stands out for its Sinhalese-style stupa in the shape of a watermelon. There’s not many of these in the city. It is also the oldest temple in the city. Definitely a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.

This whole area definitely has a very peaceful spiritual feeling; especially surrounding the main building. There is a lot of history here. Was lucky to be offered to light the evening candles by the monks - see photos. Admission ticket is 20,000 Kip to help with upkeep.

better than a museum, if you know what you're looking at. 4 stars not 5 because they have a problem with a dog or two relieving themselves on the carpets in the back. there are wet spots throughout, i saw a poop, and it's gross when you have bare feet. entrance fee was 20,000 kip, $1 usd.

Wat Visounarath is one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang, built in the year 1512, during the era of King Visounarath. The temple has a Tai Leu style two-level split roof unlike many other temples in the city. In front of the sanctuary is the famous Pathum (lotus flower) stupa. Locals refer to it as the “watermelon stupa” as looks like a watermelon sliced in half. It was built by the wife of King Visounarath in a Sri Lankan style. This ancient temple is also a repository for ancient art and objects. Displayed inside are gold, wooden, and sandstone Buddhas over 400 years old, and carved inscription stones from the 15th century. Open daily from 08:00 to 17:00.

Attracting a small entree fee, the visit is totally worth it! The temple is organised as a museum showcasing incredible Buddhist artefacts and a cross section of the religion in Laos. Also a great place to get a bit of respite from the sun

Dating to 16th century, the oldest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang. Extensive renovations have taken place, including the large domed stupa. The stupa is painted white now and looks nice, but I have seen images of it before with the natural stone which I like better. I absolutely love the old Lao architectural style evident here ❤️

It was nice but they painted it all white new I would still like the old one from the photos i saw. Still peaceful inside. And entrance fee 20, 000kip

A nice temple with multiple impressive statues inside, The ticket for adults costs 20k and children are for free.

« Oldest temple from the 18th » it was decent, we didnt find it particularly impressive

The management needs to tidy up this heritage wat.

The Buddhist temple is very quiet and clean. an ancient Buddhist temple must see when you come to Luang Prabang.

Big temple, if you go in the afternoon all the monks are out doing chores and it's pretty interesting to see

Another old temple located just next to Wat Aham, there’s entrance fees to enter the main building.

Wat Wisunarat dates back to 1513 and named after King Wisunarat (Visoun), who ruled Laos from 1501 until 1520. It’s the oldest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang and served as the city’s Museum of Religious Arts. You can see religious artefacts and precious items related to Buddhism and the royal family. The temple is home to a small selection of richly gilded Buddha statues and ancient stones dating back to the 15th century. The stones were donated by Prince Phetsarat following the Black Haw bandit invasion.

Original and oldest temple in town

A large temple built in an unusual style conpared to other LP temples hat is important to local community

Nice, temple the more old in the city

Though touted as one of Luang Prabang's oldest operating temples, originally built in 1512 by King Thibatha, it's actually an 1898 reconstruction built following the Black Flag raids. It houses Luang Prabang's largest Buddha image. Sizeable collection of old gilded 'Calling for Rain' Buddhas with long sinuous arms held to each side. These were placed here, along with some medieval ordination stones, for their protection, having been rescued from various abandoned or ravaged temples.