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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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That Chomsi Summary
Laos – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type C
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Lao Kip (LAK) £1 ≈ LAK 29,970 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are available in larger cities and tourist areas, but cash is still the dominant payment method. Credit cards are accepted in some places, though mobile payments are not as widespread.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not common in Laos, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a small tip of around 5-10% may be given, especially in tourist areas. Taxi drivers may appreciate rounding up the fare. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted in Laos, and alcohol consumption is generally restricted to licensed venues like bars and restaurants. Drinking in public spaces can be considered disrespectful. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, including restaurants and shops. Designated smoking areas are available in certain locations. |
| Lao New Year (13–16 April) |
The biggest holiday in Laos with water fights, festivals, and family celebrations |
|---|---|
| That Luang Festival (November) |
A religious festival with processions, prayers, and cultural performances |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 191 (Police), 195 (Ambulance), 190 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Tuk Tuk, Lao Taxi |
| Other: | Laos is a peaceful and beautiful destination with many outdoor activities, including trekking, visiting Buddhist temples, and cruising along the Mekong River. Travellers should be prepared for basic amenities outside of tourist areas. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for That Chomsi, Laos
Sunset is the busiest time on Mount Phousi; arrive early for a spot or climb at sunrise
Haze from field burning reduces views from February to April
Lao New Year (Pi Mai) April 13 to 16: water festival, town packed, accommodation books out
Don't miss
- 🥾 Climb 328 steps to reach That Chomsi Stupa at summit
- 🌄 Enjoy 360° panoramic views of Luang Prabang town below
- 🙏 Explore small temples and Buddha statues along the trail
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! That Chomsi, also known as Wat That Chomsi, was constructed in 1804 during the reign of King Anourouth and stands proudly atop Mount Phousi, a sacred hill rising about 100 meters above Luang Prabang. Visitors generally ascend 300 steps winding through small temples, Buddha statues and shaded resting spots. Along the way, you’ll encounter offerings left by locals, highlighting the site’s religious significance.
The golden stupa itself is an eye-catching landmark visible from many parts of town, crowned with a seven-tiered parasol and built on a three-tiered base adorned with lotus motifs. At the summit, terraces offer stunning 360-degree panoramas of Luang Prabang, the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers and lush surrounding countryside. The climb and views are especially popular during sunset, when the stupa’s gold reflects the fading light in breathtaking fashion.
While the ascent is relatively short, it involves many steps, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or in hot weather. Visitors should carry water, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for crowds during popular times like Pimai, the Lao New Year festival, when locals gather to make offerings at the stupa.
Overall, That Chomsi offers a charming blend of spiritual tradition, natural beauty and a rewarding physical experience, making it a must-visit spot to appreciate Luang Prabang’s unique cultural landscape.
Knowledge before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes; the hill has uneven steps and steep paths.
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for photography.
- Bring a light jacket, as evenings can be chilly even during summer months on the plateau.
- The viewpoint offers panoramic views of Luang Prabang’s temples and Mekong River; best seen at sunrise or sunset.
How to travel to That Chomsi
That Chomsi is located in Luang Prabang town, Laos. The nearest airport is Luang Prabang International Airport, about 4 km away, with flights from regional hubs like Bangkok and Hanoi. From the town center, the hill is easily accessible by walking or tuk-tuk, with stairways leading up to the summit.
Access summary
- From Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ): Taxi or tuk-tuk to center, 15–30 minutes.
- From Luang Prabang town: Walk up Phousi Hill stairs, allow 20–40 minutes.
- From Vang Vieng: Train or bus/minivan to Luang Prabang, about 2–5 hours.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near That Chomsi
Most visitors stay in Luang Prabang town, where accommodations range from affordable guesthouses to boutique hotels and resorts. Staying in the town center offers easy access to Mount Phousi and That Chomsi, along with other local attractions.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for That Chomsi
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🕶️
Sunglasses
🪰
Insect repellent
🧥
Windproof jacket
🔋
Power bank
👒
Sun hat
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 73% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to LAK) is 34% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is considerably cheaper compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
That Chomsi hill in Luang Prabang offers a peaceful, low‑crime environment typical of Laos’s rural areas. Visitors should stay vigilant against petty theft, avoid isolated paths at night and respect local customs to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
Accessibility
That Chomsi hill in Luang‑Prabang offers limited accessibility: steep steps and uneven paths challenge mobility, yet well‑maintained trails and clear signage help visitors navigate. Wheelchair users may find the ascent difficult; consider a guide or local transport for easier access.
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