Feel like a local at
Phosy market

Nestled in the heart of Luang Prabang, the Phosi Market pulses with life and energy, reflecting Laos’s rich traditions and culture. Every day, locals and visitors flock to this vibrant marketplace to experience the sights, sounds, and scents that define this unique corner of the world. From hairdressing to unique products, Phosi Market showcases the unique culture and resourcefulness of the people in Laos. 

Words cannot immerse you in the hustle and bustle of this lively marketplace. As pictures are worth a thousand words, we’ll show you in photos the community of vendors who bring the market to life, the incredible products that fill the stalls, and what makes this market an important part of the community. Join us as we dive headfirst into the vibrant spirit of the Phosi Market and discover the magic of this place.

The outside of the market is filled with trucks with goods and shops selling heavy goods like bikes and electronics.

As I approach the outdoor section of the market, it’s a fresh food and vegetables section. It’s tight and chaotic, with motorcycles driving past you in a tight space.

Food stall owner
The braised pork rice I ordered
Laos-styled BBQ and sausage, I highly recommend trying it when you are here.
Weird looking dried meat
Fruits and vegetable section. With chili, something that defines Lao cuisine.

As I walk in, the offerings gradually change from services like hairdressing to selling household needs, products, and snacks.

Lifestyle products like shoes, supplements, and carpets are sold in this section.
Various snacks are sold here that are suited for gifts to bring back home.

As we walk in, we can see that the market has become more than just a place where goods are sold; it has become a community by itself. A place where the stall owners eat and live their lives.

The meat and fish section is where you see bizarre products that you cannot find in other parts of the world. 

Pork blood is commonly eaten in Asia and sacrificial rituals in our office. 

Buffalo hooves, ears, and even noses are sold here, which is relatively bizarre.

Due to Laos landlocked nature, fish is hardly found here, and catfish is generally more common in the markets. Today, only catfish is offered.

To me, Phosi market encompasses what Laos is all about. It is hectic, laid back, bizarre, common, and all about the community. If you want to visit a place that summarizes Laos, the Phosi market is a must-go. Take a tuk-tuk from your hostel/guesthouse, and they will take you to the market for about 20,000 LKP. Once you are there, immerse in the noise, the smell, and the people to really experience what Laos is all about.