Luang Prabang Railway Station – What You NEED To Know
Looking to navigate the Luang Prabang Railway Station? As someone who travelled through this modern transport hub, I understand the questions swirling in your mind about tickets, location, and routes.
Having experienced the Laos-China Railway (LCR) firsthand on my journey from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, I can confidently guide you through everything you need to know.
The railway station, while efficient, can be a bit tricky to navigate at first.
During my own trip, I found myself waiting around twenty minutes for the station’s minivan service – a minor hiccup in an otherwise smooth journey. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through booking tickets, finding the station, understanding the routes, and avoiding any potential hassles.
Whether you’re a solo backpacker looking for the most cost-effective way to travel through Laos or a couple seeking comfortable transportation options, I’ll share my firsthand experience to help make your journey as seamless as possible.
Before that, consider the Best Things To Do In Luang Prabang before you make the trip!
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Where Is Luang Prabang Railway Station?
The Railway Station in Luang Prabang is actually quite a journey from town.
We needed to get a shared minivan to take us west on the 11.5-kilometre journey into the town
When we arrived in Luang Prabang, we hopped off the train and made our way down the steps to the parking area where dozens of minivans were waiting to take tourists and locals to the UNESCO town.
While we had a slight problem, we had to look around for a minivan with two spaces, we decided to wait and travel together as a couple, just in case any issues arose down the line.
There are some amazing restaurants in Luang Prabang. Take a look here.
All The Train Stations Along The LCR
The last stop on the LCR is Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
If you head north, you can actually arrive in China in the city of Kunming. The railway was opened on December 3, 2021, making it a relatively modern line connecting the major cities in Laos and extending into China.
In the first 10 months of its opening, over 3 million passengers used the service, showing just how important it could be for transport through Laos and into greater Asia.
Where To Get Tickets
In my experience of over 14 months of full-time travel in Asia, the best way to purchase tickets is online with 12Go.
When we visited Ho Chi Minh City, we used this company to buy our bus tickets to Can Tho, so we trust them to make our trip happen with ease.
Yes, you can purchase tickets when you arrive at the railway station. Make sure you have cash/ However, buying online means you can avoid having to make the journey to the railway station earlier than necessary.
Be prepared – you can only purchase tickets at least 3 days in advance of your departure date.
I would suggest using the LCR app to get tickets, but you’ll need a Laotian phone number to use it. Most people don’t spend long enough in Laos to make getting a local number worthwhile, but that’s up to you.
It is available on Android and IOS.
We got SIM cards in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia, and each took only ten minutes to set up before we were on our way.
The main thing is to relax.
Once you arrive in Luang Prabang, you can find transportation to any city along the LCR line. Ask your hotel reception or local tuk-tuk drivers, they’re usually happy to help.
Security Check At Vang Vieng Railway Station
The first question I asked myself was, “Is this the airport we have arrived at?”
When we entered the railway station, our bags were searched by a serious official. We were thoroughly searched and, after some stressful moments with no real reason to be stressed, we were through and good to go.
Nobody really enjoys being searched, do they?
Our bags had to be X-rayed for weapons, aerosols, and drugs, basically anything that shouldn’t be there.
Guada had to throw away some spray, which was a bit frustrating, but those are the rules.
My Experience On The LCR
I have to say my experience on the LCR was a positive one, and I urge people to use this means of transport in Laos.
Before arriving in Laos, we heard horror stories about public transport and overall health and safety issues.
However, after using the new LCR, I quickly realised these concerns were a little exaggerated.
Sure, there could always be problems, and no doubt there are some with transport, but the LCR was comfortable, air-conditioned, with plenty of space to put my large bag and smaller backpack with laptop, camera, and other electronic items.
P.S. If you’re travelling to Laos, check out my essential packing list that covers all you need to know before you go.
The one thing I will mention is that the staff were overly strict and bordering on rude. This could be a culture shock that I experienced, but it wasn’t anything too bad.
Staff on the train were to the point and not very warm. Still, they did their job perfectly well.
We opted for a second-class experience from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang and paid 400,000 KIP (€16.00/$18.54/£13.64).
Totally worth it in my view.
Taking the slow boat from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai? This post is for you.
What Was The LCR Like Inside?
I was impressed with the interior of the train.
The seats were clean, and the staff continued to walk up and down the train, sweeping to ensure it stayed that way.
The seats had good legroom for me. Even though I’m not six feet tall, it felt like enough space for most people.
I had a small table on the seat in front of me, not unlike an aeroplane.
The windows are large and bright, letting in plenty of light. You can really appreciate the incredible landscape as you pass by each stop along the way, whether heading north or south.
The seating configuration was five seats wide, with three seats on the left and two on the right. While compact, it wasn’t cramped for me.
Thankfully, there was even a charging port on the seat in front so you can charge up as you go.
Also, somehow everyone’s suitcase and backpack fit in the overhead storage. Another plus was that we could see our luggage the entire train journey.
Also, do not expect wifi on the train!
My Experience At Luang Prabang Railway Station
Travellers rushed out of the train the moment the doors opened.
It took us about one and a half hours to get there.
Additionally, it was good to know there was a Dairy Queen available at the station. It was badly needed!
There was a large car park outside, jammed with minivans all headed for the Luang Prabang centre. We showed our tickets to the driver and had to wait a short time to find an appropriate van which could take me and Guada.
If you want to get a tuk-tuk, you can, but if you have lots of luggage, it can be harder and less comfortable than using a shared minivan to the centre of Luang Prabang.
The cost for a tuk-tuk back to the centre of town will likely cost between 40,000-50,000 KIP.
Train Schedule From Luang Prabang
Trains leave frequently from Luang Prabang.
Train times and ticket prices can change, so always double-check on the 12Go Asia website before you travel.
As you can see, the price has risen slightly since we experienced the LCR.
| Departure | Arrival | Class | USD | LAK | EUR | GBP | Provider |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | 12:38 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.14 | ₭442,800 | €20.59 | £17.49 | RG Adventure |
| 08:30 | 12:38 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.14 | ₭442,800 | €20.59 | £17.49 | RG Adventure |
| 10:30 | 12:30 | 2nd Class Reserved | $22.00 | ₭440,000 | €20.46 | £17.38 | Laos Group Tour |
| 11:00 | 14:56 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.14 | ₭442,800 | €20.59 | £17.49 | RG Adventure |
| 11:30 | 14:56 | 1st Class Seat | $34.66 | ₭693,200 | €32.24 | £27.38 | Naluang |
| 12:50 | 14:56 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.92 | ₭458,400 | €21.32 | £18.11 | RG Adventure |
| 13:30 | 16:44 | 2nd Class Seat | $27.35 | ₭547,000 | €25.44 | £21.61 | RG Adventure |
| 14:49 | 16:34 | 2nd Class Seat | $25.68 | ₭513,600 | €23.88 | £20.29 | RG Adventure |
| 17:00 | 21:08 | 2nd Class Reserved | $23.96 | ₭479,200 | €22.28 | £18.93 | Naluang |
| 17:30 | 20:44 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.14 | ₭442,800 | €20.59 | £17.49 | RG Adventure |
| 18:40 | 20:31 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.92 | ₭458,400 | €21.32 | £18.11 | RG Adventure |
| 18:56 | 20:44 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.92 | ₭458,400 | €21.32 | £18.11 | RG Adventure |
| 19:22 | 21:08 | 2nd Class Seat | $22.92 | ₭458,400 | €21.32 | £18.11 | RG Adventure |
My Kuang Si Falls Vlog
Safety Wing Travel Insurance
Final Thoughts/Conclusion
Luang Prabang is totally worth visiting!
Some of my favourite places to go and see were Pak Ou Caves, Kuang Si Falls and Mount Phousi.
Taking the LCR through to Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng was an experience I remember fondly, though a little uncomfortable.
Interestingly, since 2024 the LCR runs into Thailand, making travel in the region comfortable, safe, and fast.
Yes, the seats were comfortable and the minivan eventually got us to our hotel, but interactions with the railway staff felt very strict and slightly uncomfortable.
Would this affect your choice to use the LCR? Absolutely not. The train is a fantastic, relatively new option to travel in Laos, and I recommend you take it at least once.
Lastly, do not miss the amazing Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang. They are incredible and easy to get to on the same day.
Any questions? Just drop me a message.
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
Is There A Train From Luang Prabang To Vang Vieng?
Yes, there is a train that goes from Luang Prabang Railway Station to Vang Vieng. I actually took this route but in the opposite direction when we headed north along the LRC. It was an overall pleasant experience, and I would recommend people use this transport for a comfortable journey with some amazing views of the Laos countryside.
Is There A Train From Luang Prabang To Vientiane?
Yes, the LCR goes all the way from Luang Prabang Railway Station to Vientiane Station, which is the last stop along the line heading southwards. The seats are very comfortable, and you’ll have plenty of room for your baggage overhead. You can buy your tickets at 12Go for any direction along the route. Just make sure you aren’t late for your train.
How Early Should I Arrive For The Laos Train?
It’s best to arrive in plenty of time for your train at Luang Prabang Railway Station. Why? Because there could be delays or problems with your transport to the station, which might cause you to miss your train. If you leave well in advance, you can overcome any delays, giving you plenty of time to wait comfortably at the train station before departing for your next destination.
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