Mount Phousi, Luang Prabang (2024) - Images, Timings

Mount Phousi, Luang Prabang Overview

Mount Phousi or Phusi is a small mountain located in the heart of the city of Luang Prabang. Situated on the peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, it is among the popular attractions for tourists visiting Luang Prabang for the fantastic 360-degree bird views of the town, the Mekong River and the forests from the top.

At the top of the mountain is a golden pagoda That Chomsi at the centre, It is set on a rectangular base painted in white. King Anourat built this temple in 1804. The pagoda is topped with a seven-tiered canopy. Next to it is a small shrine housing a seated Buddha along with other images. A small viewing platform surrounds the centre, which is a popular spot for photographing the beautiful views.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mount Phousi is early in the morning or evening to witness the sunrise and the sunset. It gets crowded at the time of sunset so better to get there early to secure a good spot.

Mount Phousi History & Significance

The name Mount Phousi translates to Sacred Hill in the local language. Located about 100 meters high, Mount Phousi has two entrance gates.

One of the entrances consists of 328 steps, which starts opposite the Royal Palace Museum on Sisavangvong road. This route is more popular among tourists and also easier to climb.

The other entrance, including about 360 steps begins at Thanon Phousi. There are several points of interest in this route. After a short distance, the stairway leads to different statues of golden Buddhas in various Mudras. Up next is a cave temple Wat Tham Phousi that contains many images of Buddha.

At the top of the mountain is a golden pagoda That Chomsi at the centre, It is set on a rectangular base painted in white. King Anourat built this temple in 1804. The pagoda is topped with a seven-tiered canopy. Next to it is a small shrine housing a seated Buddha along with other images. A small viewing platform surrounds the centre, which is a popular spot for photographing the beautiful views.

How To Reach Mount Phousi

Mount Phousi is located in the centre of the old town of Luang Prabang. The best way to reach Mount Phousi is on foot. It takes less than 20 minutes to reach the foot of the mountain and another 20 minutes to climb the stairs to the top. You can also get there by renting a tuk-tuk for about 20,000 LAK or hire a motorbike for about 8 to 10 USD per day.