Phousi Day Market is a popular local market located in Luang Prabang, Laos. The market is named after Mount Phousi, the iconic hill in the center of the city, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide array of local goods. Here are the key details and highlights about the market:

Location:

• Phousi Day Market is situated at the foot of Mount Phousi, near the town center of Luang Prabang. It is within walking distance of popular landmarks such as the Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong.

What You Can Find:

1. Local Produce:
   • Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant, showcasing the region’s agricultural products like bananas, papayas, mangoes, and citrus fruits.
   • Locally grown herbs and spices are also available, such as lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric, which are integral to Lao cuisine.
2. Handicrafts:
   • The market is famous for its selection of traditional Lao handicrafts including handwoven textiles, silk scarves, bags, wood carvings, and silver jewelry. These items are often made by local artisans from nearby villages.
3. Street Food:
   • A wide variety of traditional Lao street food is available at the market, including:
     • Lao sticky rice (Khao Niew), served with a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, and dips.
     • Lao sausages and barbecued skewers.
     • Larb (a minced meat salad) and som tam (papaya salad).
     • Freshly pressed sugarcane juice and other refreshing drinks.
4. Traditional Medicines:
   • The market features vendors selling traditional Lao herbal medicines, which include dried herbs, balms, and teas, often used for local remedies.
5. Souvenirs and Gifts:
   • You can find a range of souvenirs such as hand-painted artwork, wooden statues, Buddha images, and keychains featuring local cultural symbols.

Market Atmosphere:

• Phousi Day Market is known for its lively and colorful ambiance. It is particularly busy in the morning, with locals shopping for daily necessities and tourists browsing the unique local goods.
• The market is non-touristy compared to other markets in Laos, making it a great spot to interact with local people and experience the authentic everyday life of Luang Prabang residents.

Opening Hours:

• The market typically operates during daylight hours. It begins early in the morning and runs until mid-afternoon, with peak activity around the late morning.

Nearby Attractions:

• After visiting the market, you can easily explore Mount Phousi itself. Climbing the 328 steps to the top rewards visitors with a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and the surrounding area.
• Nearby, you can visit Wat Visoun, the Royal Palace Museum, and the night market along Sisavangvong Road, which is another popular destination in Luang Prabang.

Tips for Visiting:

• Cash: It's best to bring cash, as many of the market vendors may not accept credit cards.
• Bargaining: While the prices at Phousi Market are generally fair, it is still common to haggle, especially for handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Sustainable Shopping: If you're buying traditional handicrafts, consider purchasing directly from the artisans to support local craftsmanship.

Overall, Phousi Day Market offers an excellent opportunity to experience local Lao culture through its produce, crafts, and food, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Mount Phousi.