Wat Manorom

Wat Manorom, on the southwestern edge of the old town, is one of Luang Prabang's oldest temples — founded in the 14th century. The main building houses a massive bronze seated Buddha, one of the largest in the city, with a somewhat weathered, ancient quality that contrasts with the more polished temples in the centre.

The compound is quieter and less visited than Wat Xieng Thong or the Royal Palace, which gives it a more authentic atmosphere. The resident monks and novices use it as a working monastery rather than a tourist attraction. Worth visiting in the late afternoon when the light is good and the monks may be chanting.

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A story
The enormous seated Buddha inside Wat Manorom was cast in the 14th century and weighs an estimated six tonnes. When the Burmese sacked Luang Prabang in 1887, they looted the arms of the statue. The arms were found later and reattached, though the joins are visible. The statue sat outside in the ruins of the viharn for several centuries before the current building was constructed around it.

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