That Dam, Vientiane

That Dam, Vientiane (must see)

That Dam, known as ‘Black Stupa’, is a large ancient landmark situated in the heart of the city. The legend that has been feeding the imagination of locals for years says it was once coated with gold that was carted off after the Siam invasion. This mythological structure is also said to have been protected by seven Naga creatures who managed to withstand the armies of Siam despite giving up the gold. Today Laos’ oldest temple is crumbling and growing with moss and weed, which somehow adds to its splendor. Bad luck is meant to befall anyone who tries to repair its ruinous state which could explain its current overgrown appearance.

Why You Should Visit:
Black, simple and pure lines, damaged by the time but still beautiful.

Tip:
The House of Fruit Shakes next door is great or you can check out Pho Zap further down the road on a left turn, who are selling top-notch noodle soup in gigantic bowls.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Vientiane. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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That Dam on Map

Sight Name: That Dam
Sight Location: Vientiane, Laos (See walking tours in Vientiane)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Vientiane, Laos

Create Your Own Walk in Vientiane

Create Your Own Walk in Vientiane

Creating your own self-guided walk in Vientiane is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Vientiane Introduction Walking Tour

Vientiane Introduction Walking Tour

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a colorful blend of French colonial architecture and Buddhist shrines set alongside the broad boulevards and leafy streets. Some of the most notable places of worship are Wat Si Saket, filled with thousands of Buddha images, and Wat Si Muang, perched over a Hindu shrine. To explore these and other prominent sights of the Laotian capital, follow this orientation...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles