Mount Phou Si in Luang Prabang: Steps, Views and Visitor Tips

Mount Phou Si rises above the historic center of Luang Prabang, with views over the old town and the Mekong River. A climb of 328 steps leads to the 20-meter Wat Chomsi stupa, and the view from the top is at its best at sunset. The hilltop temple is a sacred religious site: dress accordingly, and remember that alcohol is strictly prohibited there.^[1]

Sunset draws crowds, so come early to claim a spot by the stupa.

Choose your approach

Phou Si has four entry points: in front of the National Museum, at the back by the Nam Khan River, from Joumkhong Village on the north side, and through the Jingland Hotel on the west side. The front entrance opposite the Luang Prabang National Museum is the most popular route, only 328 steps lined with frangipani trees. It lies on the main street, about a five-minute walk from the Tourist Information Center.^[1]

Plan for the climb

The climb is 328 steps lined with frangipani trees. Take it at your own pace and keep time for the top, where the Wat Chomsi stupa dates from 1804. It stands on three square bases, with a small lotus-shaped stupa at every corner. On the north side a small temple with shrines and a drum tower looks out over the hill; the drum is struck at set times, noon above all, and only the people in charge may enter the tower.^[1]

Dress for a sacred site. Bikinis and very revealing swimwear are frowned upon, walking around without a shirt is considered rude, and so are public displays of affection, from hand-holding to kissing.^[1]

Opening hours and tickets

Phou Si is open daily from 06:00 to 18:00, with hours depending on the season. Tickets cost 30,000 kip for foreign visitors and 10,000 kip for Lao visitors, and children under 7 enter free.^[1] For an evening activity after the hill, see our Luang Prabang Night Market guide. Find other trip ideas in the Laos travel guide.