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How to Get from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang

How to Get from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang

Last updated: October 18, 2026
🇰🇭 Cambodia🇱🇦 Laos Siem ReapLuang Prabang

Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Contents

Trading the intricate stone carvings of Angkor Wat for the gilded temples and saffron-robed processions of Luang Prabang is a rite of passage for many travellers in Southeast Asia. The route connects the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire with the spiritual capital of Laos, moving from the dusty energy of Cambodia to the riverside calm of the Mekong. By land it takes several connections, while the flight is a dramatic shortcut over jungle and mountains.

Train, Bus, Flight and Ferry tickets

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For most travellers, flying is the practical choice because it saves a great deal of time. You can check availability for flights on GoAsia.cc.

Siem Reap to Luang Prabang by Flight

Vietnam Airlines flies between Siem Reap and Luang Prabang, and Lao Airlines sells the flights under its own codes: QV930 from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang and QV931 in the other direction.[1] The same table lists Luang Prabang to Hanoi flights, so a connection through Hanoi is another possibility.[1] Check the airlines' sites for the days the flight runs, because it does not necessarily operate every day.

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport lies outside the city, so leave your hotel with plenty of time before your flight. Luang Prabang's airport is small and close to town, and a tuk-tuk or taxi takes you to your hotel quickly.

Siem Reap to Luang Prabang by Land

The overland route involves several connections. One crossing for it is the border between Trapeang Kriel in Cambodia and Nong Nok Khiene in Champasak Province, Laos, which is open from 06:00 to 18:00 and offers visa on arrival and e-visa.[2] From there you would still have a long journey north, so most travellers fly.

Comparing Your Options

ModeDetails
FlightVietnam Airlines, also sold by Lao Airlines as QV930 and QV931[1]
OverlandVia the Trapeang Kriel and Nong Nok Khiene crossing, open 06:00 to 18:00[2]

Tips for Traveling from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang

  • Visa Requirements: Laos offers an e-visa that can be used at Luang Prabang.[3] A visa on arrival at major entry points allows a stay of up to 30 days.[4] Check the rules for your passport before you fly.
  • Airport Transfers: Leave the hotel in Siem Reap early, because the airport is outside the city.
  • Book in Advance: The flight may not run every day, so book early to get the date you want.
  • Currency: US dollars are widely used in Cambodia, but the Lao kip is the main currency in Luang Prabang.
  • Pack for the Plane: The air conditioning on regional jets can be cold. Keep a light sweater in your carry-on.

Timetable

Siem Reap - Luang Prabang More info / Tickets
Flight Siem Reap - Luang Prabang $ 97.53–347.34 1h 30m – 17h 20m
  • →  Economy 11:45, 17:05, 20:30, 21:55

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I book tickets from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang?

Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang, including current prices and schedules.

What is the cheapest way to get from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang?

Flying is the practical option, and fares depend on the airline and the date. Compare current prices on the airlines' own sites and book early.

What is the fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang?

A flight is the fastest way, and it saves you the several connections the overland route needs.

How long does it take to get from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang?

The flight is short, but the exact time depends on whether you fly the Vietnam Airlines service or connect via Hanoi. Check the airline's schedule for the date you want.

Do I need a visa to travel from Cambodia to Laos?

Most travellers need a visa for Laos. Laos offers an e-visa that can be used at Luang Prabang, and a visa on arrival at major entry points allows a stay of up to 30 days. Check the rules for your passport before you fly.

Which airlines fly between Siem Reap and Luang Prabang?

Vietnam Airlines operates the route, and Lao Airlines sells the flights as QV930 and QV931 under a codeshare. Connections via Hanoi are also possible.

Is the airport in Luang Prabang close to the city?

Yes. Luang Prabang's airport is small and close to the town, so a tuk-tuk or taxi gets you to your accommodation quickly.

Sources and background

Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.

  1. [1] Lao Airlines: Code Share Flight. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
  2. [2] Department of Immigration of Lao PDR: Nongnokkheane International Border Checkpoint. Retrieved October 16, 2026.
  3. [3] Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Lao Visa Online: Lao eVisa Authorization Application. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
  4. [4] Department of Immigration of Lao PDR: Visas. Retrieved October 15, 2026.

Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.