Muang Sing Hotels

As a central point of trade and political administration that has changed hands over centuries, Muang Sing has many remaining historical sites including: That Xieng Teung stupa believed to contain a sacred relic of the Lord Buddha; remains of the ancient city walls and moat; residence of the former Muong Sing Prince, Panya Sekong; colonial French garrison; traditional Tai Lue houses; and the hospital of Dr. Tom Dooley, and American doctor who was stationed here in the 1960's. Situated close to the center of town, the Muang Sing Exhibition is a good place to start exploring Muang Sing's rich culture and history. The building was once the residence of Phanya Sekong a local lord who ruled over the area in the early 20th century. There is an excellent collection of traditional tools from the major ethnic groups in the area. Displayed on the building's upper floor is an interesting variety of valuable 18th-19th century historic and religious pieces that have been preserved by the people of Muang Sing. Muang Sing is a town with a rich history. Once closely associated with the Sipsongpanna Kingdom centered in present day Yunnan China, the town has been influenced by Chinese, Burmese and French occupants. Originally constructed in the 18th century following a deliberate urban plan, you can see the old city walls and moat about 7 blocks norht of the museum, and also an old rampart in the northwest part of the Sing Valley. Across from the market, around the corner from the District Administration Offices you can find the old French Garrison. The garrison is now used by the Lao army and is off-limits to visitors. Photographing this army base is prohibited. Across the street from the garrison is the former district hospital built in 1919. Tai Lue, the ethnic group most common to the Muang Sing Valley are devoutly Buddhist. Hence, there are 24 vats (temples) and monasteries in the area. Near the center of town there are a few important vats well worth a visit. Vat Luang, the most important in the area, is located off the main road next to the museum. Vat Xiang In and Vat Xiang Lae are a short walk from Vat Luang. Vat Namkeo Luang, which has a large monks quarters, is also quite beautiful and is located on the road to Xieng Kok near the junction with the paved road to Namtha. Also on the road to Xieng Kok is the magnificent Jorm Sing Stupa. That Xieng Tung is the most important religious monument in Muang Sing. It is believed locally that the stupa contains the Adam's-apple of the Lord Buddha. When the stupa was first constructed is still a mystery. To the left of the stupa is a stone stairway that leads to a sacred fountain and a sacred stone. If you follow the path to the right of the stupa heading downhill you might be able to find the old moat and wall that used to surround the site. The biggest festival of the year, Boun That Xieng Tung, is held here every year during the full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually November) and attracts a large crowd of people from around the province as well as Tai Lue Buddhists from as far top of a hill 5.5 km from the center of town on the road to Luang Namtha.