Considered the premier national symbol of Laos, this Buddhist temple (top) has its central stupa - said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha - covered with authentic gold leaf. Built in 1566 and reconstructed several times, it also has the unique feature of smaller towers inside. The combination of lacquered doors and gilded walls create this magnificence and make it shine brightly under the sun. It also hosts Laos´ most important Buddhist festival, Boun That Luang, which takes place every November.

Read more in Tripatini contributor Nadova Tours´ post 8 Exhilarating Experiences You Can Have Only in Laos.