Market
Phosi Market
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Phosi Market is a vibrant open-air market located in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos. It is a daily gathering place where locals shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and spices, as well as household goods and traditional textiles. Visitors can wander through stalls piled high with exotic produce like dragon fruit, mangosteen, and lemongrass, while the air fills with the aroma of grilled meats and herbs. The market also features a section for handmade crafts, including woven scarves and bamboo baskets, making it a great spot to pick up souvenirs. Unlike the night market that caters more to tourists, Phosi Market offers an authentic glimpse into local life and is less crowded during the day. It's a sensory experience that immerses you in the daily rhythms of Luang Prabang.
Don't miss
- Sample fresh tropical fruits like rambutan and mangosteen from local vendors.
- Browse handwoven textiles and traditional Lao scarves (sinhs).
- Watch locals haggle for fresh herbs and spices used in Lao cuisine.
- Try street food snacks such as grilled skewers or sticky rice.
- Visit early morning to see the market at its busiest and freshest.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Phosi Market
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Phosi Market with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inLuang Prabang Private Airport transfers4★ · 26 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →
Best full dayBangkok: Floating Market and Train Market Experience4.9★ · 2,777 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$24 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Tour: Pak Ou Cave and Kuang Si Waterfall Tour from Luang Prabang4.9★ · 17 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$195 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Bring small denominations of Lao kip for easier transactions.
- Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
- Ask permission before taking photos of vendors or their goods.
- Haggling is expected, but keep it friendly and respectful.
A bit of history
Phosi Market has been a central trading hub in Luang Prabang for decades, serving as a primary source of fresh food and goods for residents. The market's name derives from the nearby Phosi (or Phousi) hill, a sacred site in the city.
Common questions
What days is Phosi Market open?
The market operates daily, typically from early morning until late afternoon.
Is Phosi Market the same as the Luang Prabang Night Market?
No, the night market is a separate tourist-oriented market that sets up in the evening along Sisavangvong Road.
Can I find vegetarian food at the market?
Yes, fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant, and some cooked dishes like vegetable spring rolls are available.
Are credit cards accepted?
Most vendors accept cash only, so bring enough local currency.
Is the market crowded?
It can be busy in the early morning, but it's generally less crowded than tourist markets.
What souvenirs can I buy?
Handwoven textiles, bamboo crafts, and local spices make good souvenirs.
More attractions in Luang Prabang