Travel to Luang Prabang, Laos | Day 1 🇱🇦

We started by taking the train to Nong Khai Station. We took train 133, arriving in Nong Khai at 7:55 AM, which was a good time, not too early. Afterward, we took a tricycle from the train station to the border crossing. We stopped for lunch at a 7-Eleven or something at the border crossing, cleared Thai immigration, and then took a bus across the border to Lao immigration.

Upon reaching the Lao side, we took a bus into the city. From the border crossing, we got off at the morning market because it was cheap, had frequent departures, and had cool air conditioning and comfortable seats.

After arriving at the morning market, there was a considerable time gap between the bus from the morning market and the Vientiane Lao-China Railway Station. We strolled around and found food at a nearby shopping mall, Parkson. We bought a Lotteria burger for lunch before catching the train to Luang Prabang. While waiting, we went to Starbucks to relax and wait for the train to depart. As the train was getting closer, we walked back to the morning market bus station and then took the bus to Vientiane Railway Station.

Upon arriving at the station, you might have to wait outside if you arrive early, as the train station doesn't allow early entry. It only opens a short time before the train departs. Then there's the line, ticket checks, and baggage scanning. It can be quite time-consuming, but once inside, it's just a matter of waiting for the train. No need to walk far to find your gate like at the airport. We took the C84, leaving Vientiane at 2:30 PM and arriving in Luang Prabang around 4:40 PM (I can't remember the exact time).

On the way to Luang Prabang, the mountain views were absolutely stunning. The train was comfortable, but the air conditioning wasn't very cool. You might have to be patient, but the two-hour journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang is a breeze! ⛰️

Finally, we're here, Luang Prabangggg. We arrived in the evening. The scenic view was amazing as soon as we stepped out of the train station. Then, we headed straight to the van into the city. The vans take you from the train station to the city center. The fare is about 70 baht per person. Tell the driver where you want to get off and which hotel you want to stay at, and they'll take you there.

We arrived in the evening on our first day, so we didn't do much sightseeing. After checking in at our accommodation, we went out to find something to eat at the night market. There's a ton of food, everything from sweets and savory to fruit juices, but the prices are a bit on the touristy side. It's not that cheap, but the cost of living is about the same as in Thailand.

I didn't go anywhere today because I had so many connections, so I was a bit tired and bored. I'd better go to bed. Croquettes!

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Post by marshmallow001 | Sep 24, 2025