One of the first things we did in Luang Prabang was take a stroll up Phou Si Hill. It's a gorgeous hill/park just outside of the city center and a popular attraction. The hill has many stairs, trails, and manicured plants. But best of all are the countless mystical temples and shrines along the way. Most interesting were "Buddha's footprint" and a cave shrine in the hillside. Toward the top of the hill, there are amazing views of Luang Prabang and both rivers that have proven so important to this city (Mekong and Nam Khan). The hill was spotted with monks, spiritual offerings, and visitors releasing birdies from cages for good luck.
We always try to go to a view point in any city we visit, and the $1 admission fee plus hike was totally worth it.
- Julia
Views of the Nam Khan River.
A monk peering inside at Buddha's footprint.
Budda's giant footprint is 4-5 feet in length.
Views of the Mekong River, by which we arrived.
Visitors can pay to free a bird from it's cage for good luck.
