Phousi, a rocky 100-metre (330ft) hill, dominates the centre of Luang Prabang. At its foot stands Wat Paa Huak, a temple featuring well-preserved 19th-century murals showing Mekong river scenes. From this temple 328 steps wind up the forested slopes to the 24-metre (79ft) That Chom Si on the summit, which has an impressive gilded stupa in classical Lao form, as well as a rusting anti-aircraft gun.

Luang Prabang was formerly the capital of a kingdom of the same name. Until the communist takeover in 1975, it was the royal capital and seat of government of the Kingdom of Laos. The city is nowadays a UNESCO World Heritage Site.