Nong Khai to Vientiane: Transport Options and Thailand–Laos Border Crossing
Find all the essential information you need to cross the border between Nong Khai and Vientiane, from transport options to immigration procedures. This guide helps you prepare your journey and cross the Thailand–Laos border smoothly and with confidence.
Nong Khai, a key border town between Thailand and Laos
Located along the Lao border, Nong Khai is a major gateway for travel between Thailand and Laos. Most travelers use the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge to cross the Mekong River and reach the Lao capital, Vientiane.
Nong Khai to Vientiane: transport options to reach the border
To reach Nong Khai or depart from it, most travelers use the train. Affordable and convenient, it is the most efficient transport option and has the advantage of stopping close to the Thai–Lao border.
From Nong Khai railway station, the border checkpoint is about 3 km away. There are four ways to reach it:
- Walking, possible if you are traveling light and not in a hurry.
- Tuk-tuk, available outside the station; negotiation is required, with an average fare of around 100 baht.
- Songthaew (shared taxi), operating from the station, costing 50 baht per person.
- The cross-border train, inexpensive but dependent on fixed schedules and less suitable for tight connections.
| Train No. | Departure station | Departure | Arrival station | Arrival | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 481 | Nong Khai (Thailand) | 07:30 | Thanaleng (Laos) | 07:45 | 20 baht |
| 482 | Thanaleng (Laos) | 10:00 | Nong Khai (Thailand) | 10:15 | 20 baht |
| 483 | Nong Khai (Thailand) | 14:45 | Thanaleng (Laos) | 15:00 | 20 baht |
| 484 | Thanaleng (Laos) | 17:30 | Nong Khai (Thailand) | 17:45 | 20 baht |
Ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Bolt do not operate in the Nong Khai area.
Border checkpoints between Nong Khai and Vientiane
Thailand and Laos share the Mekong River as a natural border. The crossing is made via the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, linking Nong Khai to the outskirts of Vientiane.
Built with Australian government support and inaugurated in 1994, the bridge is approximately 1.2 kilometers long and features two traffic lanes as well as a dedicated crossing area for shuttle buses and pedestrians.
The Thai border checkpoint in Nong Khai
- The Nong Khai border checkpoint is located about 3 km from the city center.
- Opening hours: 06:00–22:00.
- Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available.
- SIM cards are sold on site (Seven/Eleven stores are usually a better option).
- Re-entry permits can be processed here, though waiting times can be long.
Thai visa exemption:
Travelers without a visa may receive a 30-day visa exemption, renewable once at an immigration office. This applies to selected nationalities (Europe, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, etc.).
At the Nong Khai checkpoint, travelers may still be asked to complete a TM6 form, although it has officially been discontinued in Thailand.
Crossing between the two border posts
To travel between the Thai and Lao checkpoints, passengers use a shuttle bus that crosses the Friendship Bridge every 10 to 15 minutes. The fare is 40 baht per person and free for children.
The Lao border checkpoint near Vientiane
This border post is notable for the presence of a nearby casino. Facilities also include:
- A currency exchange office (closing around 18:00),
- A duty-free shop,
- Several transport options to reach Vientiane: buses, songthaews, taxis and tuk-tuks.
The checkpoint is open daily from 06:00 to 22:00.
A visa is required to enter Laos. It can be obtained in advance or on arrival at the border.
Visa on arrival for Laos:
- Processing time: 10 to 30 minutes depending on queues.
- Tourist visa validity: 30 days.
- Payment in cash (US dollars, Thai baht or Lao kip).
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after entry.
- One passport photo required.
FAQ – Nong Khai to Vientiane border crossing
Can you cross the Nong Khai–Vientiane border in one day?
Yes, the crossing is straightforward and allows a same-day round trip, provided you meet visa requirements.
What is the easiest way to reach Vientiane from Nong Khai?
The shuttle bus across the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge is the simplest and most direct option.
Is a visa for Laos available on arrival?
Yes, most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the Lao border checkpoint.
Do taxi apps work in Nong Khai?
No, ride-hailing services like Grab and Bolt are not available in this border area.
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