Phousi Hill, Xieng Khouang Plateau Travel Guide

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Climb Phousi Hill in Luang Prabang for breathtaking panoramic views, ancient temples, and a spiritual journey in the heart of Laos.

Ascend Phousi Hill in Luang Prabang for panoramic views, Buddhist temples, and a glimpse into Lao spiritual traditions. A climb to the summit rewards visitors with stunning vistas of the city, the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, and the surrounding mountains.

A brief summary to Phousi Hill

Luang Prabang, LA
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Monday 6 am-7 pm
Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
Thursday 6 am-7 pm
Friday 6 am-7 pm
Saturday 6 am-7 pm
Sunday 6 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Phousi Hill.

Climb in the early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset to enjoy the most spectacular views, but be prepared for crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as both staircases consist of over 300 steps.
Dress modestly, as you will encounter religious sites along the way.
Bring a flashlight if climbing before sunrise, as it can be very dark.
Climb up one stairway and descend the other to experience all the attractions and viewpoints.

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Getting There

Walking

Phousi Hill is centrally located in Luang Prabang and easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town. From the Royal Palace Museum, walk directly opposite to find the main stairway entrance. Alternatively, locate Thanon Phousi near the Nam Khan River to find the second entrance. The entrance fee is 20,000 Kip, payable about halfway up the steps.
Tuk-tuk

If starting from outside the city center, a tuk-tuk is a convenient option. A short tuk-tuk ride to either entrance of Phousi Hill typically costs between 10,000 and 15,000 Kip. Specify either the Royal Palace Museum or Thanon Phousi as your destination, depending on which stairway you prefer. Remember to factor in the 20,000 Kip entrance fee per person.

Discover more about Phousi Hill

Phousi Hill, also known as Mount Phousi, is a prominent landmark in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos. Rising 100 meters above the town, the hill offers a 360-degree panorama of the UNESCO World Heritage city, the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, and the surrounding lush mountains. Phousi, meaning 'Sacred Mountain,' is a spiritually significant site for the Lao people, adorned with temples, shrines, and Buddhist statues.The climb to the summit involves ascending either of two stairways. The main stairway, located opposite the Royal Palace Museum on Sisavangvong Road, has 328 steps and is the quicker, more popular route. The other, with 355 steps, begins near the Nam Khan River on Thanon Phousi and passes several cultural sites, including Wat Tham Phousi, a small cave temple. Along the way are various Buddha images, including one reclining, one meditating, and one sheltered by a multi-headed serpent.At the summit stands Wat Chom Si, a golden pagoda built in 1804 during the reign of King Anourat. Next to the stupa is a small viharn housing a large seated Buddha image surrounded by smaller ones. The hilltop provides a stunning vantage point, especially at sunset, though it can get crowded. Phousi Hill has been an integral part of Luang Prabang's historical landscape for centuries and has served as a site of enduring religious importance.