Having traveled overland from Phnom Penh to Bangkok it was my plan to do the same overland from Bangkok to Vientiane by train. Alas like most things in Asia it was not as easy as it appeared.
I did though manage it and can confirm that it is a pretty cool and easy way to get yourself here, particularly compared to a bus.
The Direct train from Bangkok to Vientiane
My plan had been to take the daily train from Bangkok to Vientiane in a sleeper birth, just after my overland from Phnom Penh via Poipet.
Alas things are not as easy in Thailand and not only was I told “no tickets (other than seats”, but the guy was fairly useless help wise.
Thankfully I did some research though and found that in fact there were three options to the border town, from where one could then take a seat to Laos.
The Alternative Route from Bangkok to Vientiane
If you miss out on the direct service (which seems to be common), you can take a train to the Nong Khai border station and then switch to another train that crosses into Laos. This route technically allows you to experience the beauty of the countryside while still making your way to Vientiane. Unless of course like me you travel at night…
Tips for the Journey
- Book Ahead: Seats and beds can fill up fast, especially during peak travel times.
- Check Schedules: Train schedules can vary, so be sure to confirm times ahead of your trip.
- Keep in mind there are 3 trains to Nong Khai station daily, but you need to check what they connect with Laos or not
- If they don’t then the final leg to Laos can be done via TukTuk!
For more details on schedules and booking, you can check out Thai Railways. Enjoy your journey!
Bangkok to Nong Khai by train
I took the 20.25 train which was due to arrive in Nong Khai at 06.25 via the second class sleeper. This leaves from the main station in Bangkok, which lacks the charm of the old Bangkok station which connects with Poipet.
Theres not much food wise here so come prepared. The train itself is all sleepers of the second class variety which means open plan with seats that change into beds. This cost around $30, or around 1000 Baht per person. Not bad, but this class is a little boring meaning I would rather go 1st, or indeed 3rd. Alas these are not options on this route.
Food wise there is a restaurant cart, not to mention an over anxious guy coming to peddle the food, which was fairly Joe Average. I had some chips! They were slightly less disappointing than the fact I could only get off for one cigarette. This was nothing like tea cheap train to Hua Hin.
Nong Khai Station at 6 am
On arrival at Nong Khai station you are pretty much on the last stop of the Bangkok to Vientiane by Train adventure. On arrival you buy your seat to Vientiane and then have two hours to wait.
I used this to go and explore the nearby street food which was pretty epic. Great Laos style sausages, Thai BBQ and even some pretty ace Fried Chicken. This was in opposition to not waiting 2 hours and simply jumping on one of the the Tuk-Tuk’s to the border. I am nothing if not committed…..
Nong Khai to Vientiane Train
With 70 baht, or under $4 spent you are then able to go through Thai immigration and then onto the train. Ironically said train is once again “old school” with open doors and a whole heap of excitement.
The highlight is when you go over the bridge between the two nations wit the flag of Laos appearance being when you know you have (almost arrived). You then get to the new train station that services the Bangkok to Vientiane by Train line. Those without a visa will need to drop $35-40, but it is all quick and then your Laos adventure can begin.
You can check by bespoke trips by clicking the link to Laos Tours.