That Chomsi
Golden stupa.
Basile Morin — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Basile Morin — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Basile Morin — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Basile Morin — CC BY-SA 4.0
A wooded hill about a hundred metres high in the heart of Luang Prabang, crowned by the golden That Chomsi stupa. More than three hundred steps climb to it from the main street opposite the Royal Palace, or from the back near the Nam Khan river. The stairs pass frangipani trees and their blossoms, small shrines and mythical carvings, up to the summit where the whole town opens out: tiled roofs and golden temples among the trees, the meeting of the two rivers and the blue mountains around. People climb just before sunset to watch the sun go down over the Mekong, so the small summit gets crowded; for calm, go at sunrise when mist fills the valley. The way down on the far side leads straight to the night market. A small fee is paid partway up; sources differ on the amount. Temples are living places of worship: cover shoulders and knees, take off shoes before entering halls, and do not touch monks or block their way. The whole old town of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site, its temples, wooden houses and colonial buildings set between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
Golden stupa.
From the top.
Over the valley.
Central Luang Prabang, opposite the Royal Palace
Royal Palace, Luang PrabangHaw Kham, built in 1904 in the French era for King Sisavang Vong and his family.3 minutes walk3.9
Luang Prabang Night MarketEvery evening the main street in front of the Royal Palace closes to cars, long 4 minutes walk4.3
Wat Xieng ThongThe most beautiful and important temple in Laos, built by King Setthathirath in 13 minutes walk4.5Before sunset for the famous view with crowds, or at sunrise for calm and mist over the valley.