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How to Get from Pakse to Champassak

How to Get from Pakse to Champassak

Last updated: October 17, 2026
🇱🇦 Laos
Contents

Champassak is a quiet town on the Mekong south of Pakse. It is the base for visiting Vat Phou, a temple complex that forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape dating from the 5th to 15th centuries and mainly associated with the Khmer Empire.[1]

Train, Bus, Flight and Ferry tickets

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The stone-pillared path leading to the Vat Phou temple, with forested mountains behind
The stone-pillared path leading to the Vat Phou temple, with forested mountains behindPhoto: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Pakse to Champassak by Van

Booking platforms list a 14-seat regional van on this route, with a travel time of 2 to 3 hours and fares of about $12 to $13 (October 2026).[2] Ask at booking where the van picks up in Pakse and where it drops you in Champassak. You can book this route on GoAsia.cc.

Comparing Your Options

ModePrice (USD)Duration
Regional vanAbout $12 to $13[2]2h to 3h[2]

Tips for Traveling from Pakse to Champassak

  • Wat Phou: Arrive in the afternoon, stay overnight and visit the ruins early the next morning to avoid the heat.
  • Guesthouse name: Champassak is a long, thin town along the river. Tell the driver where you are staying.
  • Cash: Carry Lao Kip for tuk-tuks and snacks.

Timetable

Pakse - Champassak More info / Tickets
Van Pakse - Champassak $ 11.84–12.73 2h – 3h
  • →  Regional 14pax 09:00, 12:00

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I book tickets from Pakse to Champassak?

Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Pakse to Champassak, including current prices and schedules.

What is the cheapest way to get from Pakse to Champassak?

Booking platforms list a regional van for about $12 to $13 (October 2026).

What is the fastest way to get from Pakse to Champassak?

The regional van is the option listed on booking platforms, with a travel time of 2 to 3 hours (October 2026).

How long does it take to get from Pakse to Champassak?

Booking platforms list 2 to 3 hours by van (October 2026).

Is there a lot of luggage space on the vans?

Space is limited in a 14-seat van. Travel with a backpack or medium suitcase and keep valuables with you.

Do I need to book my ticket before I arrive in Pakse?

Booking a day ahead is a good idea, and you can book on GoAsia.cc.

Where is Vat Phou?

Vat Phou is in the Champasak cultural landscape on the Mekong, part of a UNESCO World Heritage property.

Sources and background

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

  1. [1] UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
  2. [2] 12Go: 12Go Timetable Pakse to Champassak. 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.