Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw tickets
Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw Trip Overview
Nong Khiaw to Luang PrabangDistance 91 km (56.9 miles) | |
Price range US$ 10-US$ 12 | |
Ride Duration Range 3h-4h 30m | |
Earliest Departure 01:00 | |
Latest Departure 06:00 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
About the ride from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
Luang Prabang, the most visited city in Laos, is filled with cultural, historical, and natural attractions. It makes for a great introduction to this beautiful country. But, if you are looking to experience a different, quieter side of Laos, Nong Khiaw is a fantastic getaway.
The distance from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw is around 140 km (87 miles), and it’s a pretty easy overland trip.
Located on the banks of the Nam Ou River, Nong Khiaw is still relatively un-touristy. However, the surrounding region and mountains make it a trekkers’ dream destination.
The region lends itself to aimless exploration. Head out on a walking tour or rent a mountain bike and pedal your way around the town, stopping for refreshments or clicking pictures. Hike your way across lush paddy fields and gushing waterfalls. So much of this landscape is still raw and untouched. Those looking to rough it can sign up for multi-day treks too.
Climb to the top of Phadeng Peak for some truly unforgettable views of the region. The hike, while not an easy one, isn’t too long. After the 1.5 hour trek, spend some time at the top before you head down to one of the many quiet beaches along the Nam Ou River.
Another highlight is the Pha Kuang Cave. Get ready for a bit of adventure as you squeeze, crawl, and navigate your way through narrow openings and passages. The caves are filled with stalactites and stalagmites and have a pretty otherworldly appearance.
One of the most fascinating things about Nong Khiaw is the villages that have retained their traditional lifestyle. You’ll have an excellent opportunity to tour these settlements, meet with friendly locals and get a peek into their lifestyle.
A couple of days of hiking and touring might get you in the mood for some relaxation. There is no better way to relax than floating down the Nam Ou River on a bamboo raft or kayak.
Nong Khiaw is also known for its culinary delights. Try the fresh out of the oven French bread, sandwiches, and local favorites such as laap.
Evenings are best spent at a riverside bar with a cold beer in hand, watching the sun disappear behind the mountains.
So now you know what to do in Nong Khiaw, let’s get into how to get there.
You can choose to travel from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw by bus, minivan or private taxi.
Taking a bus or minivan is the cheapest option. If you’re traveling with a group, book a private minivan.
Though it’s the most expensive option, hiring a private cab is also the most convenient option.
The boat service between Luang Prabang and Nong Khiaw is no longer operational.
What to see when traveling from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
Grab a window seat because you won’t want to miss the scenic ride to Nong Khiaw. The drive takes you through Laos’ verdant landscape, particularly lush after the monsoons. So sit back and relax and watch Laos pass by.
The ride is also a fantastic opportunity to get a glimpse of the country’s rural landscape. You’ll pass through smaller villages and catch sight of the locals going about their daily life.
How to get from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
Taking a bus
For budget travelers and backpackers, buses are the best way to travel from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw. It’s hard to beat US$9 ticket prices.
There are around three to four departures every day—a couple in the morning, the rest in mid-afternoon.
The buses are air-conditioned and have comfortable cushioned seats. Unfortunately, they do not have attached washrooms, though stops are made for restroom breaks.
Buses leave from either the Northern or Southern Bus Station in Luang Prabang and arrive at Nong Khiaw Station four hours later.
Naga Express Travel is a well-known operator on this route.
Taking a minivan
Another option for transport from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw is traveling by minivan.
Travel time is four hours, similar to that of a bus journey. There is only one departure time every day, at 9.30 am.
With prices starting from US$10 per passenger, this is another economical option.
Minivans are air-conditioned and have comfortable cushioned seats. On request, the minivans make stops to provide for restroom and food breaks.
Some operators provide pick up for hotels located in the Luang Prabang city center. If you are requesting hotel pick up, be sure to add relevant details during checkout.
Luggage allowance is one bag per person weighing up to 20 kg.
Naga Express Travel, Naluang, and Laos Group Tour are some popular operators. Most operators leave from the Minivan Station, located in the Southern Bus Station.
If you are traveling as part of a group or with family, you could also rent a private minivan.
Taking a taxi
If you are looking for comfort, renting a taxi might be the best way to get from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw.
This is a good option for solo travelers, couples, and families with children. With hotel pick up and drop off and flexibility during travel, this provides the most conveniences.
Depending on the number of travelers, you could hire a standard taxi or SUV.
Travel time is around three hours making it the fastest way to cover the Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw distance.
The cost of renting a private taxi ranges from US$120 to US$160, depending on the operator and size of the car.
Companies Operating from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
Our travelers reviews about the ride from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw
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Popular stations and stops in Luang Prabang and Nong Khiaw
Departure stations in Luang Prabang
Arrival stations in Nong Khiaw
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MINIVAN: Laos Group Tour | Naluang | Nong Khiaw Nature Tour | Luang Prabang Holiday Travel
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