There was a butterfly I spotted in the Buddha Park in Vientiane that I somehow forgot about. It was an old Peacock Pansy Butterfly, its wings shredded and worn. So this week I worked on adding this butterfly to the mod, as well as yet another unique feature for it.
Vientiane
The capital city of Laos.
The Buddha Park in Vientiane
One of the most popular attractions in Vientiane is Wat Xieng Khouane Luang, more commonly known as the Buddha Park. Built in 1958 by the priest-shaman Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, it features over 200 sculptures inspired by both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
Vientiane’s Sparse Museums
After a full day visiting temples, we decided to change things up with a Museum Day, venturing out to the outskirts of Vientiane to dig deeper into Laos’ history. We wouldn’t just learn the general history, but the history they choose to tell.
The Last Temple: Wat Inpeng
Our Temple Day in Vientiane came to a close with a visit to Wat Inpeng, also known as the Temple of the Incarnation of Indra.
Statues of Wat Si Saket
Possibly the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane, Wat Si Saket was once used as a headquarters by the invading Siam. Today, it houses more than 2000 Buddha statues of clay and silver. It also houses a small museum, despite still being an active temple.
Ho Phrakeo Museum, Vientiane
Once a temple that housed the famed Emerald Buddha, Ho Phrakeo carries the weight of centuries in its walls. Originally built in the 16th century, the temple was ransacked by the Siamese in the 18th century. The Emerald Buddha was taken to Bangkok, where it resides to this day.
Wat Kao Nhot in Vientiane
One of many small temples that lines the streets of Vientiane is Wat Khao Nhot. Likely destroyed by the Siam during the rebellion of Chao Avouvong in1927, this is a reconstruction. This is a small temple, and it was closed the day we went past.
Vientiane City Pillar Shrine
Sometimes, while wandering a city, you stumble upon something that draws you in. Something unassuming, yet somehow meaningful. That’s what happened to us in Vientiane, while walking between two temples. A strange coincidence led to me learning a small story about the city’s history.
Wat Si Muang: Mother Temple
Buddhist temples are always a meaningful place to visit in Southeast Asia, and Laos is no exception. Vientiane, the capital city, is home to many such temples, and we spent some time exploring a few of them.
Laos: Home of the Butterfly
I don’t think I’ve ever seen as many butterflies as I have while travelling Laos. I’ve always loved these amazing creatures, and to see so many in one place was such a joy.