Phou Bia

Phou Bia is Laos' highest mountain, standing at the southern end of the Xiangkhoang Plateau in Xiangkhouang Province. Because of the mountain's height, the surrounding area is cold and foggy. Although no snow has been seen for decades, it is said that snow fell on its peak as recently as the first years of the twentieth century. The location is secluded, densely forested, and has been exploited by Hmong guerillas. Around 60,000 Hmong who were assisting FAC operations sought sanctuary in the Phou Bia massif in the 1970s. As late as 2006, there were indications of smaller Hmong hideouts in the area.

Phou Bia is located in a restricted military region near the decommissioned Long Chen air station, and as a result, it receives few tourists. Access is further complicated by unexploded ordnance. There had been no known ascent by a non-Lao individual for at least 30 years as of July 2008.

Officials from Xaisomboun Province declared in 2021 that Phou Bia Mountain would be developed as a "sustainable development tourism location" worth US$500 million. Under a 99-year concession, the development will be centered on Phou Houa Xang Village in Anouvong District, Xaisomboun.

Elevation: 2819 m (9249 ft)
Location: Xiangkhouang Province, Laos
Parent range: Annamite Range