Savannakhet Marks National Heritage Status for Ho Tay Pidok Library, Old Talaeo Temple

Officials in Savannakhey have recognized two historic landmarks in Champhone district as National Heritage sites, marking a key step in preserving the province’s religious and cultural history.

The town celebrated Ho Tay Pidok Library and Old Taleo Temple during a three-day ceremony held from 2–4 March, which brought together provincial and district officials, Buddhist monks, and local residents.

The event featured Champhone’s traditional Palm Leaf Manuscript Procession, a cultural ceremony that represents the district’s long connection to Buddhist learning and manuscript preservation.

Residents dressed in traditional clothing joined the procession, while cultural performances including folk dances and khene music added to the festivities.

A Library on Water

Ho Tay Pidok Library, often referred to as the Ancient Buddhist Scripts Library, is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the province. The wooden structure sits in the middle of a lake in Nong Lamchan Village and dates back to the late 14th century.

Originally built as a place where monks could study and safeguard Buddhist teachings, the library continues to hold an important collection of 219 palm-leaf manuscripts. For the local community, the site remains both a cultural treasure and a sacred place.

Visitors are normally required to dress respectfully when entering the library.

A Temple with Historic Murals

Nearby, Old Talaeo Temple is known for its striking architecture and historic mural paintings.

The temple’s main hall, built in the early 20th century, survived periods of conflict that affected the region. Inside, murals depicting scenes from the Vessantara Jataka, one of the most well-known Buddhist stories, are believed to date back to the 1930s.

Officials say the national heritage designation will help protect both sites while also encouraging cultural tourism in the province.

Strengthening Savannakhet’s Cultural Identity

Authorities believe the recognition will help highlight Champhone district as an important cultural destination in southern Laos. Visitors are increasingly drawn to sites like the “Library on Water” and Old Talaeo Temple, where history, religion, and local traditions continue to shape daily life.

The announcement also comes as part of wider efforts to preserve cultural heritage in Savannakhet. Authorities are currently working toward seeking UNESCO World Heritage status for That Ing Hang Stupa, one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist monuments.

Located near Savannakhet City, That Ing Hang was built in 1560 by King Setthathirath on the site of an earlier Khmer temple. The stupa is believed to house a relic of the Buddha’s collarbone and has attracted pilgrims for centuries.

Officials say protecting historic sites while keeping local traditions alive will play an important role in strengthening Savannakhet’s identity and expanding cultural tourism in the years ahead.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/03/05/savannakhet-marks-national-heritage-status-for-ho-tay-pidok-library-kao-talaew-temple/