Distance 356 km (222.5 miles) | |
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As you complete your visit to Northern Thailand in the fun, friendly city of Chiang Mai, you will be very close to the neighboring country of Laos. To experience the best of Laos’ culture, a trip to Luang Prabang is hard to beat. The city of Luang Prabang is full of historical sights to visit, such as the many Buddhist temples where you can sit and reflect in peace or watch the monks perform their prayers.
Luang Prabang lies in a valley surrounded by the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. A great lookout point is Phousi Hill located in the center of the old town which gives you a magnificent, expansive view. Other natural wonders to explore include the Pak Ou Caves or the refreshing Kuang Si Falls.
The 353 kilometer (219 mile) journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang can be taken by bus, or by a combined bus and ferry service. The journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang requires a border crossing between Thailand and Laos. While the bus journey is a more direct mode of travel from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, the bus and ferry combined service is great for those wanting to experience several modes of travel, with the boat crossing being a fun and unique option.
Crossing the Thailand/Laos border and entering Luang Prabang, you will notice the similarities between these countries in the lush green landscapes, popularity of temples, and friendly people. Yet each country has its own unique essence with much history and many sights to explore.
The journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang offers many natural sights such as national parks, rivers, and mountains. On the border between Thailand and Laos you will cross over the Mekong river which snakes its way through the valley in which Luang Prabang sits. The river is an important food source and a refreshing sight in this landlocked country. As you arrive in Luang Prabang you will witness the natural beauty of this area, as the city is contained within a striking landscape of hills and mountains.
Traveling by bus
Taking a bus from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang is a good option for travelers who wish to choose from several class options, as well as having the choice for more direct journeys. For some operators you may have to change buses when crossing over the border.
Due to the long trip (19.5 hours), buses can replace overnight accommodation for a night, but it’s a good idea to bring a neck pillow for a more comfortable sleep. Sleeper buses often have double beds which are shared between 2 passengers or the option to book a single bed for individual travelers. Air conditioning and toilet facilities are available on board the bus, but other factors such as available blankets, seat types, and rest stops will vary depending on the operator.
Traveling by bus-ferry
Taking a bus-ferry journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang really consists of three separate modes of transport, starting with a minivan ride (5.5 hours), followed by a boat ride (1.5 hours), and ending with a bus journey (12 hours). The minivan takes you from Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong at the Huay Xai Friendship Bridge which is a border crossing between Thailand and Laos.
Once you reach Huay Xai in Laos on the other side of the bridge, you will make your way by bus on the longest stint of the journey to Luang Prabang. This travel option is bound up in one booking and can commence with a free pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai, just remember to be in your lobby 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
About the Thailand-Laos border crossing
Crossing from Thailand into Laos can be achieved by traveling over the Mekong River, whether that be over the Friendship Bridge or on the ‘slow boats’ that take you on the river. There are varying visa regulations when crossing over from Thailand to Laos.
Some nationalities can have their visas issued on arrival at the border, while other nationalities may have to prepare theirs in advance. It is best to do your own research and check with your route operator beforehand.
Not sure what to pack for the long bus ride you have coming up? Here`s with a short list of things you can`t forget to take with you.
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