MONT PHOUSI - VAT CHOMSI
The superb view of Luang Prabang and the surrounding mountains is worth the effort: a climb of 328 steps. It is advisable to go early enough in the late afternoon to admire the sunset. At the foot of the hill stands the 19th century monastery of Wat Pa Houak, whose façade is decorated with wood carvings and mosaics depicting Buddha riding Erawan, the three-headed elephant. On the north face, the remains of Vat Pa Phou Thabat can be seen. Despite the horde of tourists who flock there at the end of the day, the visit is well worthwhile.
The Vat Chomsi is at the top. This small cross-shaped temple was enlarged in 1796. On the last evening of Pi May (Lao New Year), it was once the starting point for the procession of Nang Sang Khan, tutelary deity of the New Year: a long procession descended the steps to bring the sovereign the support of heaven, the protection of the geniuses and the homage of the people. The Ramayana was then performed in the purest tradition. Nowadays, this procession has been replaced by that of the civil and religious authorities of the country, accompanied by Miss Laos and the inhabitants of the city.
The That Chomsi, also on Mount Phousi, is a stupa built in 1804 by King Anurut and restored in 1914 by Tiao Komakhoun Duang Chanh, director of worship at the time. Its base is rectangular and not square, like that of the other stupa. Since 1997, it illuminates the city with all its majesty.
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La montée vers le sanctuaire est assez impressionnante, car on découvre la ville peu à peu en prenant de la hauteur.
L'arrivée au sommet permet d'avoir une vue à 360°, mais malheureusement la foule est très concentrée, ce qui gâche le spectacle du coucher de soleil sur le Mékong.