Wat Si Saket, Vientiane (must see)

Wat Si Saket is a Buddhist wat situated on Lan Xang Road, on the corner with Setthathirat Road, to the northwest of Haw Phra Kaew, which formerly held the Emerald Buddha.

Wat Si Saket was built in 1818 on the orders of King Anouvong (Sethathirath V) in the Siamese style of Buddhist architecture, with a surrounding terrace and an ornate five-tiered roof, rather than in the Lao style. This may have kept it safe as the armies of Siam that sacked Vientiane in 1827 used the compound as their Headquarters and lodging place.

It may now be the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. The French have restored it in 1924 and again in 1930. It features a cloister wall with more than 2000 ceramic and silver Buddha images. The temple also houses a museum.

Why You Should Visit:
A must for its history alone, but also worthwhile since so much restoration work has been done and it includes an interesting museum and more Buddhas than you normally see in one place for sure.

Tip:
Go in the afternoon and capture the golden orange light accentuating the gorgeous earthy tones.
Wear clothes suitable for temples (knee-length trousers) and suitable footwear (you'll be required to take off to enter the temple).
Bring some cash for the (small) entrance fee, plus sunscreen, sun hat, water, camera (note that pictures are forbidden inside the temple)...