One of my favorite things about traveling is discovering places I never expected to find. Sometimes those discoveries happen halfway around the world. Sometimes they happen just a few miles from home.
While driving around Murfreesboro one afternoon, we noticed the ornate roofline of what looked nothing like the buildings surrounding it. Curious, we turned into the parking lot and found ourselves standing in front of Wat Lao Buddharam, a beautiful Laotian Buddhist temple quietly tucked into our own community.
We’ve lived in Murfreesboro for years, and somehow we had never known it was here. Within minutes it became one of my favorite places we’ve discovered in Tennessee.
Wat Lao Buddharam
- A Cultural Home in Middle Tennessee
- First Impressions
- Appreciating the Architecture
- Learning About Laotian Buddhism
- A Peaceful Place
- Festivals That Bring the Community Together
- Why Visit Wat Lao Buddharam?
- Know Before You Go: Wat Lao Buddharam
- FAQ: Wat Lao Buddharam
At A Glance: Wat Lao Buddharam
- Location: Murfreesboro, Tennessee
- Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
- Best For: cultural experiences, architecture, photography, local hidden gems
- Admission: free (donations appreciated if accepted)
- Highlights: traditional Laotian architecture, peaceful grounds, memorial wall, cultural festivals, learning about Laotian Buddhism
A Cultural Home in Middle Tennessee
Wat Lao Buddharam serves as both a place of worship and a cultural gathering place for Tennessee’s Laotian community.
The temple provides a space where traditions, celebrations, language, and faith can continue to be shared across generations while also welcoming respectful visitors who wish to learn more about Laotian culture.
It’s a reminder that every community has stories waiting to be discovered if we’re willing to slow down and look a little closer.
First Impressions
Before we even reached the temple itself, we found ourselves stopping along the surrounding brick wall. Built into the wall were dozens of beautifully decorated memorial pillars, each lovingly created by families to honor someone who had passed away.
No two memorials were alike. Some were simple and understated. Others were filled with bright colors, photographs, flowers, and intricate decorative details.
Walking quietly along the wall felt less like touring an attraction and more like being invited into a deeply personal expression of remembrance.
Beyond the memorials stood the temple itself.
Its sweeping rooflines, richly colored trim, and elaborate carvings immediately drew our attention. Two beautifully crafted dragons guarded the staircase leading toward the entrance, while gold accents shimmered in the afternoon sunlight.
It was unlike anything we had expected to find in the middle of Tennessee.
Appreciating the Architecture
Even before learning anything about the temple’s history, it was impossible not to admire the incredible craftsmanship.
Every roofline seemed to curve gracefully toward the sky.
Layers of red, gold, and green highlighted the detailed carvings, while decorative elements covered nearly every corner of the building.
The dragons flanking the entrance immediately caught our attention. Rather than simply serving as decoration, they reflected the artistic traditions commonly found throughout Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia.
Everywhere we looked there were thoughtful details that invited us to pause and appreciate the artistry involved in creating such a beautiful place.
Learning About Laotian Buddhism
Visitors are not permitted inside the temple sanctuary itself, but we were warmly welcomed into the gathering hall nearby.
Following local custom, we removed our shoes before entering. Inside, a kind and soft-spoken woman greeted us and patiently offered to show us around.
She explained the different displays throughout the room and introduced us to aspects of Laotian Buddhist traditions that were entirely new to us.
Photographs of former monks lined one wall, including images of the leaders who helped establish the temple.
Along another wall stood a row of golden Buddha statues. Our guide explained that each statue represented a different day of the week. Many worshippers choose to make offerings before the Buddha associated with the day they were born as part of their personal devotional practice.
Nearby stood a ceremonial gong along with colorful floral displays and decorations that were still being taken down following the celebration of Lao New Year.
Rather than feeling like a museum presentation, it felt like a conversation with someone who genuinely wanted to share part of her culture with us.
A Peaceful Place
After leaving the gathering hall, we spent a little more time quietly walking the grounds.
A few monks were finishing chores for the day before returning to their residence between the temple buildings.
A peaceful courtyard welcomed visitors with more beautifully crafted dragons and carefully maintained landscaping.
One of the things that struck me most was the atmosphere. Despite being only minutes away from busy roads, the temple grounds felt remarkably calm. There was no rush. No crowds. Just a quiet place devoted to worship, community, and reflection.
Festivals That Bring the Community Together
Our guide told us that the temple hosts celebrations throughout the year, including Lao New Year. She explained that these festivals welcome visitors who want to learn more about Laotian culture through traditional food, music, dance, and community gatherings.
She also mentioned that Wat Lao Buddharam and the nearby Thai Buddhist temple often participate in events together, creating opportunities for the broader community to experience and appreciate their shared traditions.
Before leaving, I made a note of next year’s festival dates. It’s one thing to admire the buildings. It would be something entirely different to experience the temple filled with music, celebration, and community.
Why Visit Wat Lao Buddharam?
One of my favorite parts of travel is learning about cultures that are different from my own. I simply never expected to find that opportunity so close to home.
Wat Lao Buddharam offers visitors the chance to slow down, appreciate beautiful architecture, and respectfully learn about a community that has quietly become part of Tennessee’s story.
It isn’t a tourist attraction in the traditional sense but something much better. It’s an opportunity to listen, learn, and leave with a broader understanding of the people who call this state home.
Know Before You Go: Wat Lao Buddharam
- Remember that this is an active place of worship, so dress modestly and speak quietly during your visit.
- Remove your shoes before entering any building if invited inside.
- Always ask before photographing people or religious ceremonies.
- Festival celebrations are wonderful opportunities to learn more about Laotian culture, but dates vary from year to year.
- Be respectful of areas that are reserved for worship or private community use.
- Allow 30-60 minutes for a peaceful visit around the grounds.
FAQ: Wat Lao Buddharam
- Can anyone visit Wat Lao Buddharam?
Yes. Respectful visitors are welcome, although it is important to remember that this is an active place of worship.
- Is there an admission fee?
No. The grounds are free to visit.
- Can you go inside the temple?
The main sanctuary is generally reserved for worship, but visitors may occasionally be welcomed into other buildings depending on activities taking place that day.
- What should I wear?
Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting religious sites.
- Does the temple host festivals?
Yes. The Lao New Year celebration is one of the temple’s largest annual events and offers visitors an opportunity to experience traditional food, music, and cultural celebrations.
Some places become memorable because they’re famous. Others become memorable because they surprise you. Wat Lao Buddharam did exactly that.
What began as a spontaneous turn into an unfamiliar parking lot became one of the most meaningful local discoveries we’ve made. We left with a greater appreciation not only for the beauty of Laotian architecture but also for the kindness of someone willing to share her traditions and culture with complete strangers.
Travel has a wonderful way of broadening our understanding of the world. Sometimes all it takes is the curiosity to stop somewhere unexpected—even if that place is only a few miles from home.
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Thanks for coming along to the Wat Lao Buddharam. May you find joy and comfort in your quiet devotion.
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