This temple is revered as the guardian of the city of Vientiane. According to the local legend, a young pregnant woman named Si Muang sacrificed herself to appease the angry spirits that were obstructing the construction of this temple in 1563. The pillar under which she was sacrificed became the central pillar surrounding which the city of Vientiane expanded. Every year during the Boun Thatluang festival, hundreds of people visiting the temple to thank Si Muang for her sacrifice. It is said that her spirit grants any wishes asked of her. As a token of thanks, you simply should offer bananas, coconuts, flowers, incense and candles at the altar. The inside of the temple is decorated with wood carvings, religious reasons and paintings predominantly in the prosperity-related colours of red and gold.

• Offerings can be brought from the hawkers outside the temple.

• You can hire a taxi/car/bicycle/jumbo to get here.

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