The Royal Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism and Lao rule and is Laos' most important religious building. The dazzling golden temple and its spire are visible from afar and locals claim that if you have not visited That Luang,you have not visited Laos. The base of the stupa has walkways and stairs connecting the different levels,designed for the faithful to climb. Each level has different architectural features pertaining to Buddhist doctrine. Worshippers stick balls of sticky rice to the walls as a mark of respect to the spirit of King Setthathirat,who built the shrine in 1566 and whose statue stands in front of the temple. The effects of the setting sun on its golden surface are stunning.