How to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng, located between Luang Prabang and Vientiane, is known for its stunning limestone karsts, river tubing, and adventure activities. Situated 180 km (112 miles) south of Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng is accessible by high-speed train, bus, minivan, or private car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng:

• By High-Speed Train: The fastest and most comfortable option.
• By Bus or Minivan: The cheapest but longer alternative.
• By Private Car: The most flexible but expensive option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

Timetable

By High-Speed Train: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option

Taking the high-speed train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is the quickest and easiest way to travel.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Luang Prabang Railway Station (15 km from the city center).
• Arrival Station: Vang Vieng Railway Station (4 km from the town center).
• Duration: 1 hour.
• Price: 198,000–250,000 LAK (~$10–$15 USD), depending on class.
• Train Operator: Lao-China Railway.
• Seating Options:
  • 1st Class (Wider seats, more legroom, more expensive).
  • 2nd Class (Standard seating, good comfort, budget-friendly).
• Departure Frequency: 3–5 trains daily, from morning to evening.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~1 hour).
• Comfortable and air-conditioned.
• Avoids winding mountain roads.

Cons:

• Train tickets sell out quickly during peak season.
• The train station is outside the city, requiring a short transfer.

Booking Tip:

For the best experience, book 1st class for more comfort. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus or Minivan: The Cheapest but Longer Alternative

For budget travelers, taking a bus or minivan from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is a cheaper but slower option.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal.
  • Some operators offer hotel pickup.
• Arrival Point: Vang Vieng Bus Terminal or town center.
• Duration: 4 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions.
• Price: 130,000–180,000 LAK (~$7–$10 USD).
• Bus & Minivan Operators:
  • Naga Travel (reliable).
  • Malany Transport.
  • ViengChampa Tour.
• Vehicle Types:
  • Minivan (Faster, 8–12 passengers, less space).
  • VIP Bus (Larger, more comfortable, slightly longer journey).
• Departure Frequency: Several daily departures from morning to afternoon.

Pros:

• Cheaper than the train.
• Scenic views along the winding mountain roads.
• Hotel pickup available with some operators.

Cons:

• Takes longer than the train.
• Roads can be bumpy and winding, causing motion sickness.
• Minivans can be cramped if fully booked.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a VIP bus or book a seat near the front of a minivan. Use our online search form to check schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Option

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng is an option.

Key Details:

• Route: Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng via National Road 13.
• Distance: 180 km (112 miles).
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Price: 1,500,000–2,500,000 LAK (~$80–$150 USD), depending on car type.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • Local taxi companies.
  • Hotel-arranged private drivers.

Optional Scenic Stops Along the Way:

• Kuang Si Waterfall – A stunning waterfall near Luang Prabang (~1-hour stop).
• Phou Khoun Viewpoint – A great place for panoramic mountain views (~30-minute stop).

Pros:

• Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
• Great for groups and families.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other options.
• Road conditions can be rough in some areas.

Booking Tip:

For the best experience, hire a private driver with a comfortable vehicle. Use our online search form to compare private car options.

Final Tips for Traveling from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

• Best Option for Speed: High-Speed Train (~1 hour, from 198,000 LAK).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Minivan or Bus (~4–6 hours, from 130,000 LAK).
• Best Option for Comfort & Scenic Views: Private Car (~4–5 hours, from 1,500,000 LAK, with sightseeing stops).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains and buses sell out quickly during high season (November–March).
• Prepare for Motion Sickness: The mountain roads can be winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if traveling by bus or car.