Many locals of Mekong’s component countries are part of Buddhist communities that are centred around temples of all sizes and shapes. The most prominent Buddhist temples are listed here—historic structures that demonstrate the deep faith many locals profess.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
One of the most stunning remnants of the Khmer Empire that once ruled from the 9th to the 15th century AD, the Angkor Archaeological Park – and its key attraction Angkor Wat – demonstrates the glory of Cambodia’s bygone age and its Hindu faith. Beyond Angkor Wat, you can spend more than a day visiting other nearby temples like enigmatic Bayon and off-the-beaten-path Banteay Srei.
Yuantong Temple, Yunnan, China
Located in Kunming, Yunnan, the Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest temples in the area, dating back to the Tang Dynasty in the 600s AD. The impressive statuary within the temple includes a golden statue of Guanyin, a smiling Buddha, and pillars encircled by dragons. Beyond the décor and the reflective pools, the temple’s relaxing atmosphere induces a sense of meditative well-being.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Thailand
Doi Suthep, the large mountain to the west of Chiang Mai City, is home to a grand temple housing half of Buddha’s shoulder bone. The relic, hidden away inside a golden chedi, draws thousands of visitors to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, despite the difficulty in getting here: pilgrims must ride 15 km up the mountain and climb up a few hundred steps from the base of the temple to get to the top.
Shwedagon Temple, Myanmar
The grand Shwedagon temple in Yangon is more than just the golden stupa that towers at the centre. Each shrine, each Buddha image, and each stupa represents a particular element of Burmese Buddhism—from the 25-ton Maha Gandha bell to the “Victory Grounds” where Kings used to pray for triumph, and where modern-day Burmese pray for good luck.
Pha That Luang, Laos
Standing in the centre of Laos’ capital Vientiane, Pha That Luang is the country’s most holy Buddhist monument, due to its Buddha relic within. The gilded stupa is an iconic national symbol and is the location for Laos’ most important festival, Bun That Luang, which takes place around November every year.
Vinh Trang Temple, Vietnam
A 19th-century temple located in the Mekong Delta, Vinh Trang Temple is an intricately-designed wonder: its grandiose main hall houses multiple statues of the Buddha, arahants and bodhisattvas, and combines Chinese, Vietnamese and Angkor architectural styles. Outside, its manicured gardens offer a proliferation of ornamental trees, ancient trees and bonsai.
