Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang via Nateuy Train Station | Thailand

— What You Can Expect —

Traveling from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang through the Chiang Khong border and taking a train at Nateuy station is a great way to save significant travel time on Laotian roads. Here is the detailed itinerary:

STEP 1 : Chiang Rai — Chiang Khong Border (Thailand)

● Transportation: A van will pick you up at your hotel in Chiang Rai city between 05:00 AM and 05:40 AM.

● Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.

● Destination: You will be dropped off at the 4th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (Chiang Khong) to complete Thai departure formalities.

STEP2 : Chiang Khong — Houayxay Border (Laos)

● Crossing the Border: After getting your Thai exit stamp, staff will guide you onto a shuttle bus across the bridge to the Houayxay Immigration Checkpoint in Bokeo Province (Hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM).

● Houayxay Checkpoint: A new team will assist you through the Lao immigration process (Visa on Arrival is available here).

● Office Briefing: Once cleared, you will be taken to the local office for about 15-20 minutes for a brief orientation and essential travel information.

● Services: You will receive a free sandwich box. You can also exchange currency, purchase a SIM card, or use the restroom.

STEP3 : Houayxay — Nateuy Train Station

● Transportation: A van departs at 09:00 AM for Nateuy.

● Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 - 5 hours for the 155-200 km journey, depending on road conditions.

● Arrival: You will arrive at Nateuy station around 13:30 PM.

STEP4 : Nateuy Train Station — Luang Prabang

● Train Type: High-speed (EMU) or ordinary train on the Laos-China Railway.

● Schedule (Train K11): Departs Nateuy at 14:26 PM and arrives in Luang Prabang at 16:24 PM.

● Duration: Approximately 2 hours on the train.