Bus from Chiang Mai to Luangprabang
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Overview
- Tour Type:Bus
- Language:English
Embark on a guided two-day overland adventure from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, designed for comfort and scenic immersion.
This package transforms a potentially exhausting bus ride into a fascinating road trip.
The journey is broken into two parts, featuring an overnight stay in the charming and culturally rich Thai city of Nan. With a private, comfortable vehicle, border crossing assistance, and a stunning drive through the remote, mountainous landscapes of Northern Laos, you’ll arrive in Luang Prabang feeling rewarded, not just tired.
This package transforms a potentially exhausting bus ride into a fascinating road trip.
The journey is broken into two parts, featuring an overnight stay in the charming and culturally rich Thai city of Nan. With a private, comfortable vehicle, border crossing assistance, and a stunning drive through the remote, mountainous landscapes of Northern Laos, you’ll arrive in Luang Prabang feeling rewarded, not just tired.
The Experience
Day 1: Chiang Mai to the Historic City of Nan (Tuesday, October 7, 2025)
- 8:30–9:00 am: Be picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai in a comfortable, air-conditioned private minivan or bus.
- Morning/Afternoon: Begin your journey eastward across Northern Thailand. The route takes you through the provinces of Lampang and Phrae before arriving in the culturally significant Nan province. You will stop for lunch (not included) at a local restaurant along the way.
- ~4:00 pm: Arrive in the peaceful capital city of Nan. Check into your pre-booked hotel and take some time to refresh.
- Evening: The rest of the evening is free for you to explore Nan’s quiet, temple-lined streets, its charming night market, and enjoy its excellent local cuisine. Get a good night’s rest for the early start tomorrow.
Day 2: Border Crossing & Mountain Roads to Luang Prabang (Wednesday, October 8, 2025)
- 6:30 am: An early start is essential for today’s long but rewarding journey. After an early breakfast at the hotel, you will depart from Nan.
- ~8:30 am: Arrive at the Huay Kon (Thailand) / Muang Ngeun (Laos) border crossing, a remote checkpoint in the mountains.
- ~9:00 am: Our team will assist you with all border formalities, including your Thai exit stamp and the application for your Laos visa on arrival.
- ~9:30 am – 6:00 pm: Once in Laos, the real adventure begins. You will continue in a comfortable private vehicle for the main part of the journey. The road from the border to Luang Prabang is famously scenic and winding, twisting through spectacular mountain ranges and offering incredible views. There will be several stops for restrooms, lunch at a local Lao restaurant (not included), and photo opportunities of the stunning landscapes.
- Early Evening (~6:00 – 7:00 pm): After a full day of travel, you will descend from the mountains into the Luang Prabang valley, arriving in the city as the sun begins to set. You will be dropped off at your hotel or a central location.
Highlights
- While a direct bus can take over 18 exhausting hours, this curated journey prioritizes your comfort and experience.
- The true highlight is the drive on the second day—a breathtaking route on winding mountain roads that few travelers get to see.
- You'll pass through remote Hmong villages, lush valleys, and dense teak forests.
- This is an immersive road trip that showcases the rugged beauty of Northern Laos, turning a simple transfer into the most adventurous part of your trip.
Includes/Excludes
- Hotel pickup in Chiang Mai.
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire 2-day journey.
- An experienced, licensed driver.
- 1-night accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Nan with breakfast.
- Full assistance with border crossing formalities.
- Laos visa fee (price varies depending on nationality).
- All lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinks.
- Accommodation in Luang Prabang.
- Personal travel insurance.
How to Use
A booking confirmation and e-voucher will be sent via email. Please present the e-voucher and a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity to the driver and guides.
Cancellation Policy
Non-refundable (0% refund).
from$69 /person
