About 8 kilometres south-west of Champasak, the remains of the most interesting Khmer-temple outside of Cambodia can be found. Wat Phou - meaning 'mountain monastery' - is a collection of Temples and shrines on the foot of the Lingaparvata berg. The complex was built by King Jayavarman IV in the 10th century. It was once connected to Angkor Wat in Cambodia by a 100 kilometres long road.

The place is now linked to Theravada Buddhism, but the sandstone reliefs show that the ruins were once dedicated to Hindu deities. Originally, this was a Shiva sanctuary. Since the decay of the mighty Khmer empire, the jungle has taken over Wat Phou.

Since 2003, Wat Phou is on Unesco's list of world heritage, and much work is being done to restore the complex. From the central temple, which is on top of a hill, you can enjoy a great view over large parts of the complex. You can also see the Mekong from here. The temple complex is open to visitors from 8:30 to 16:30. There's also a restaurant.

Lots of information can be found on the Wat Phou, Champasak website.