Chiang Mai to vientiane: Train booking
Loading available options...
Overview
- Tour Type:Trains
- Language:English
Traveling from Chiang Mai to Vientiane is a journey that bridges two of Southeast Asia’s most beloved cultural hubs. While there is no direct "single train" that connects these two cities, the route has become significantly easier and more popular with the recent opening of the international rail link directly into Vientiane.
Whether you are heading to the Lao capital for a visa run, a riverside getaway, or to catch a high-speed train further north to Luang Prabang, here is everything you need to know about booking your trip.
Understanding the Route: Chiang Mai to Vientiane by Train
Because the rail lines in Thailand branch out from Bangkok, a train journey from Chiang Mai to Vientiane typically involves a "transit" approach. There are two primary ways to do this:
1. The Scenic Overnight Connection (Via Bangkok)
This is the most comfortable and classic "train lover's" route.
Step 1: Take the famous overnight sleeper train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal).
Step 2: Board the new direct international train (Rapid No. 133) from Bangkok, which takes you all the way across the Friendship Bridge to the newly opened Khamsavath Station in Vientiane.
Why choose this? You get to experience Thailand's premium sleeper berths and arrive directly in Vientiane without needing to switch to a bus at the border.
2. The Northern Transit (Via Phitsanulok or Bus/Train Combo)
For a faster land route that stays in the north:
Many travelers take a VIP bus from Chiang Mai to Nong Khai (the border town) and then hop on the short shuttle train or the international train to cross into Vientiane.
Alternatively, you can take a bus to Phitsanulok and connect to a regional train heading northeast toward the Lao border.
The New International Train Experience
The highlight of traveling from Chiang Mai to Vientiane in 2026 is the seamless entry into Laos via rail.
Khamsavath Station: Unlike the older Thanaleng Station, the new Khamsavath Station is located much closer to Vientiane’s city center (about 7–9 km), making it easier and cheaper to reach your hotel.
Border Formalities: When taking the international train, you will go through Thai immigration at Nong Khai station and Lao immigration at Khamsavath station. Visa on Arrival is available for most nationalities at the train station (ensure you have USD cash and passport photos).
Essential Tips for Your Chiang Mai to Vientiane Booking
Book in Advance: The sleeper trains from Chiang Mai and the international train to Vientiane are high-demand routes. It is recommended to book at least 7 to 14 days in advance, especially if you want a 2nd-class air-conditioned sleeper berth.
Combine Your Tickets: Since you are navigating two different legs (Chiang Mai–Bangkok and Bangkok–Vientiane), using a booking service helps ensure your connection times are realistic.
Check the "Visa Run" Schedule: If you are traveling for a Thai visa, remember that the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane requires appointments. Ensure your train arrival aligns with your appointment date.
Currency: While you can pay for many things in Thai Baht (THB) at the border, having Lao Kip (LAK) or US Dollars (USD) for your visa fee and local transport in Vientiane is highly recommended for the best rates.
The Experience
Day 1: Chiang Mai to Nong Khai (via Udon Thani Flight)
- Late Morning: Be picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai and transferred to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
- Afternoon: Board your pre-booked domestic flight from Chiang Mai to Udon Thani (UTH). The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.
- Late Afternoon: Upon arrival at Udon Thani Airport, our representative will greet you and guide you to your private vehicle for a comfortable transfer to the border city of Nong Khai (approx. 1 hour).
- Evening: Check into your pre-booked hotel, often with views of the Mekong River looking across to Laos. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax, explore the local market, and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 2: Nong Khai to Vientiane via International Train Crossing
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your train’s departure time, you may have some free time to walk along the river promenade.
- Late Morning: Check out from your hotel and meet your driver for the short transfer to Nong Khai Railway Station.
- Boarding: After completing Thai immigration at the station, you will board the special international shuttle train.
- Train Ride: The train will take you across the iconic Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River, arriving just minutes later at Thanaleng Station, the first train station in Laos.
- Arrival in Laos: Disembark and proceed through Lao immigration, where our Lao team will be waiting to meet you.
- Transfer to Vientiane: Board your private vehicle for the final transfer (approx. 30-40 minutes) into Vientiane city center, where you will be dropped off directly at your hotel or a central location of your choice.
Highlights
- This all-inclusive travel package handles all the complex logistics of the Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang route, saving you from the stress of coordinating multiple buses, taxis, and train schedules.
- The journey is broken into two comfortable days, avoiding a single, exhausting 14-hour trip.
- The highlight is the swift and comfortable high-speed train, which offers breathtaking views of Laos's mountainous terrain through panoramic windows as you speed towards the cultural heart of Luang Prabang.
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).
