Visiting

Getting here

To reach Wat Kiew Nor, take the ferry across the Mekong to Xieng Men village. There is only one ferry from the Luang Prabang peninsula, so it is hard to miss. From the landing, follow the road through the village along the river. After about a kilometre the road forks: the comfortable path on the right follows the river to Wat Chomphet and other temples; the more adventurous-looking country road on the left leads to Wat Kiew Nor, another kilometre on. The road is passable by car and motorbike all the way to the wat; on foot it is about thirty minutes.

The route from the ferry to the wat on Google Maps

Dress and conduct

Shoulders and knees covered, for men and women alike. Shoes are left at the foot of the steps of any roofed building. Women do not hand anything directly to a monk, and are expected to sit lower than a monk. Please be quiet and respectful, but do not be afraid to ask questions if you have any.

Tak bat — the alms round

The daily alms round of all the wats in the area starts at dawn, around 05:30, at Wat Xieng Men. The tak bat (piṇḍapāta in Pali) is not a performance or a tourist attraction. If you wish to offer food, kneel or sit lower than the monks, offer in silence, and do not photograph from in front. Do not approach or speak to the monks and novices during the round.