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Pakse in southern Laos and Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand are linked by a land crossing at Vang Tao on the Lao side and Chong Mek on the Thai side. Many travelers use it to reach the airport or the train station in Ubon, and you can compare the options and book on GoAsia.cc.
The Vang Tao to Chong Mek Border
The Lao checkpoint is the Vang Tao International Border Checkpoint in Phonthong District, Champasak Province, opposite the Chong Mek boundary post in Thailand. It is open from 06:00 to 20:00.[1] You have to go through Lao exit and Thai entry checks, so allow extra time for the border on any option.
Pakse to Ubon Ratchathani by Bus
Booking platforms list an Express bus at about $10 with a journey time of 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours (October 2026). The time depends largely on how long customs and immigration take at the border.[2]
Pakse to Ubon Ratchathani by Van
Booking platforms list minivan and Van + Van tickets at about $22 to $28 with a journey time of 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours (October 2026).[2] With a Van + Van ticket, you change from a Lao vehicle to a Thai vehicle at the border.
Pakse to Ubon Ratchathani by Private Transfer
A private transfer in a sedan for up to 3 passengers or a 10-seat van is listed at about $130 to $161 per vehicle, with a listed duration of about 1 hour 40 minutes (October 2026).[2] It is the most expensive option, but it gives you door to door service, which can help if you have a tight flight connection at Ubon Ratchathani Airport.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Bus | About $10[2] | 3h 30m - 5h | Standard |
| Minivan | $22 - $28[2] | 3h 30m - 4h | Medium |
| Private Transfer | $130 - $161 per vehicle[2] | About 1h 40m | High |
Tips for Traveling from Pakse to Ubon Ratchathani
- Border Fees: Keep some small denominations of Lao kip or Thai baht handy in case of small processing fees at the border.
- Visa Requirements: Check the Thai visa policy for your nationality before you leave, and have your documents ready so that you do not hold up the vehicle.
- Currency: Pakse uses kip, while Ubon Ratchathani uses Thai baht. Exchange booths and ATMs are available on the Thai side.
- Hydration and Snacks: The heat at the border can be intense while you wait in line, so carry water and a light snack.
Timetable
| Bus Pakse - Ubon Ratchathani $ 9.48 3h 30m – 5h | |
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| Taxi Pakse - Ubon Ratchathani $ 128.81–159.91 1h 40m | |
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| Van Pakse - Ubon Ratchathani $ 22.07–27.91 3h 30m – 4h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Pakse to Ubon Ratchathani, including current prices and schedules.
The cheapest listed option is the Express bus at about $10 (October 2026). It takes you across the border to Ubon Ratchathani.
Booking platforms list the private transfer (sedan or van) as the fastest option at about 1 hour 40 minutes, with door to door service. It is also the most expensive.
Booking platforms list about 1 hour 40 minutes for a private transfer, and 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours for vans and buses, depending on border waiting times.
You must go through Lao exit and Thai entry checks yourself. Ask your operator whether you should take your luggage with you through immigration.
The Lao checkpoint is open from 06:00 to 20:00. Plan your journey so that you arrive at the border within these hours.
Yes, you can book through GoAsia.cc to secure your preferred departure time, especially around local holidays.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Department of Immigration of Lao PDR: Vang Tao International Border Checkpoint. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] 12Go: Pakse - Ubon Ratchathani timetable. 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.