How to Get from Kratie to Krong Stung Treng

Kratie is the Mekong town where people come for the Irrawaddy dolphins, which live in deep pools of the river, mostly between Kratie and Stung Treng.^[1] Heading north, the road leaves the riverfront behind for quieter countryside: rice paddies, grazing water buffalo and villages along the Mekong.

Krong Stung Treng lies on the San River, with the Mekong joining on the northeastern outskirts of town, and the Lao border is about 50 km away.^[1] That makes it a natural stop for anyone heading on to Laos.

Kratie to Krong Stung Treng by Bus

A 35-seat bus covers the stretch. On booking platforms a seat costs about $6 (October 2026), and the ride takes from about 2 hours 15 minutes.^[2] National Highway 7 between the two towns is 142 km long and newly paved.^[3] That leaves you plenty of daylight to find a guesthouse or sit down to a meal by the river. Book your seat on GoAsia.cc before you go.

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Tips for Traveling from Kratie to Krong Stung Treng

• Book ahead: Book a day or two before you travel so your seat is secure.
• Arrive early: Be at the departure point in Kratie in good time before the bus leaves, so there is no last-minute rush with your luggage.
• Stay comfortable: Carry water, and keep your passport, electronics and cash in a small daypack at your feet rather than in the luggage hold.
• Evening by the river: In Stung Treng, walk the paved road along the San River in the late afternoon. It is where the town meets in the evening.^[1]
• Onward to Laos: The Trapeang Kriel crossing, called Nong Nokkheane on the Lao side, is open from 06:00 to 18:00 and issues visas on arrival and e-visas.^[4]