Date back to 1,300 years before, the Shaivism (a branch of Hinduism that worships Siva as the Supreme God) was the religion that had influence in this area. Hindu people established Wat Phou and used this sacred place for religious rituals. After the construction completed, Shivalingam (the supreme sacred image of Sivaism) was placed at the center of the principal stupa to let Hindu people worship.
However, when Khmer lost the power, Buddhism spread to Laos. Shivalingam was brought out of the stupa and replaced by a Buddha image and Wat Phou became the temple of Buddhism since that time.
Besides the ruins, there are many interesting things in Wat Phou such as water channel used to take water from the cliff to the temple before flowing through Shivalingam. People believed that this was the holy water that could bring them good luck.
Another charm is Dok Duang Champa (Laos National Flower) orderly grown around the pagoda over hundred years. Visitors will admire its beauty and its fresh fragrance at the same time.
Nowadays, the important ceremony to pay respect to Wat Phou is organized annually on the full moon day of the 3rd lunar month (Makhabucha) in 4 provinces: Champasak, Salawan, Attapeu and Sekong. |
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There are 2 important activities in this ceremony. In the evening of the day before Makhabucha, people will light the candle to worship Wat Phou and Buddha image. On the full moon day, they will offer food to monk and make merit. This festival is well-known and draws a lot of visitors to the province , both Laotians and foreigners.
Recently, French government has approved EUR1,000,000 from the Priority Solidarity Fund to restore ancient remains in Wat Phou area. There are 3 activities which will be carried out under the project.
The first activity is to conduct a field study to find the appropriate method to improve the site for tourism. The second is to improve infrastructure around the site. The final stage is to train the staff in conservation and site management.
Number of tourists visiting Laos is growing up every year. However, the plan will not be effective if there is no responsibility from the visitors. Don't forget that all you do today is all your children will receive in the future.
* Laos National Tourism Authority |
LNTA* - Number of tourists visiting Laos PDR in 2003 recorded 636,361 visitors (13.5% lower than 2002). This was the effect of SARS and Bird Flu. However, in the first 8 months of 2005, total number of tourists shown 34%increase from 2004. This may i
