That Luang Festival

Images Phoonsab Thevongsa aos’ largest religious festival, held in honor of the That Luang Stupa, is an annual extravaganza,held in the heart of Vientiane. It is a testament to the nation’s deep-rooted spirituality, enduring traditions, and unshakeable sense of community.

Join us on a journey to uncover the essence of the That Luang Festival, where centuries-old customs come alive in a riot of colors, music, and spirituality. Against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring That Luang Stupa, the festival showcases the profound spiritual connection that unites Lao people while welcoming visitors from around the world.

Wander through the mesmerizing sights and sounds of the festival, see the rituals that have stood the test of time, and immerse yourself in the warm embrace of Lao culture. That Luang Festival is more than an event; it’s a window into the soul of Laos, where history and spirituality intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Captions

Left: Buddhists carry candles as they walk around That Luang to make merit

1: Locals carry extravagant "wax castles" in a procession

2: Wax castles come from a Buddhist tradition of offering ornamental items made from honey and wax

3: In the morning, Buddhists gather to offer alms to monks

Lao people make offerings of flowers, floral cones, incense, and candles

Festivities continue late into the night as people travel to pay respects to the stupa from all over the region

Lao people believe that circling the That Luang three times brings significant merit and good karma.

That Luang stupa