Wat Long Khoun
ວັດລ້ອງຄູນ
An ancient temple on the north bank of the Mekong, where past kings retreated for meditation before their coronations. Its hall preserves 18th- and 19th-century murals.
Wat Long Khoun is in Ban Xiang Mouane, on the north bank of the Mekong. From the pier behind Wat Xieng Thong, take a small ferry across the river, about 10,000 to 20,000 kip one way. This is where past kings of Luang Prabang spent three days in meditative retreat before their coronations. Outside the main hall's gallery stand Chinese-style guardian figures. Inside, the temple preserves 18th- and 19th-century Buddhist murals and a golden seated Buddha. Nearby is a cave where monks used to practice meditation. Admission is about 10,000 kip, and the temple is open roughly 8:00 to 17:00. The riverbank in front of the temple offers views back to the old town and Mount Phou Si. You can walk uphill along a path for about 10 minutes to Wat Chomphet. Allow half a day for both. Check the last ferry in advance, which departs around 17:30.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Wat Chomphet
- Wat Xieng Thong
- Wat Sensoukharam (Wat Sene)
- Nam Khan Bamboo Bridge
- Tak Bat Alms Giving Ceremony
- Wat Siphoutthabath
- Heuan Chan Heritage House
- Wat Pa Huak