Bangkok to Vientiane Train: The Complete Guide

Bangkok to Vientiane Train is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel by land from Thailand to Laos. It will not be necessary to take long bus rides subjected to road traffic conditions. 

The Bangkok to Vientiane Train started its first service in July 2024 and is operated by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). This route is an extension from the existing Bangkok to Nong Khai. 

This Bangkok to Vientiane train enhances connectivity between Thailand and Laos. However, it is not part of the Lao China Railway (LCR) network. Efforts are underway to connect these three countries. 

In this Bangkok to Vientiane Guide, I will share all the information you need to travel from Thailand to Laos easily. 

Travellers just after passing Thai Immigration at Nong Khai

DISCLOSURE
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Bangkok to Vientiane Train: Train Route Overview

The train starts at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok, Thailand and ends at Khamsavath Station in Vientiane, Laos. 

A food centre available at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok before catching the overnight Bangkok to Vientiane train

This Bangkok to Vientiane train is an overnight train which does not require any transfers and will bring you across the Thailand-Laos Friendship Border. 

At Nong Khai, Thailand, you will pass through Thailand immigration. Get off the train to get your passport stamped. Then, you may hop back onto the train to continue the journey to Vientiane. 

Upon disembarking the train at Khamsavath Station in Laos, you will pass through Laos immigration. If required, you may also get a visa on arrival here. 

Waiting area at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: Train options and schedule

Train schedule

There is only one train service per day. The train departs Bangkok at 21:25 and arrives in Vientiane at 09:05 the next day. 

The train number for this service is Train #133. 

Train ticket options

There are various Bangkok to Vientiane train ticket options. Tickets can be booked at the station or via the app. Based on my experience, there is no difference between purchasing the ticket in person and on the app. 

On my Bangkok to Vientiane train journey, I opted for the second class a/c seat. This is because all the sleeper bed tickets were sold out, despite planning to purchase it 2 months ahead. The seats were comfortable and reclinable. 

Train ticket options available are:
1) Second class A/C sleeper: THB 874 (USD 26)
2) Second class A/C seats: THB 574 (USD 17)
3) Third class fan seat: THB 281 (USD 8.40)

Second class A/C sleeper: THB 874 (USD 26)

Sleepers that have been tidied up by passenger before arriving at Thai Immigration border in Nong Khai

Second class A/C seat: THB 574 (USD 17)

Almost full occupancy for second class A/C seater train coach

Third class fan seat: THB 281 (USD 8.40)

Third class fan seat. Photo credit: 12go.asia

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: How long does the journey take? 

The total train journey takes 11.5 hours. However, anticipate that the journey may take a little longer, depending on the crowd size at Thailand immigration at Nong Khai. 

During my Bangkok to Vientiane train experience, I arrived in Vientiane an hour after the planned time. The queue at Thailand immigration was long, so it took a little longer for everyone. 

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: How to book tickets

At Krung Thep Train Station

There are ticket counters and staff to assist in purchasing the ticket. The staff is helpful and is happy to clarify any questions you may have.

The train station is very near Chatuchak Market. So, if you’re planning to visit Chatuchak market and need a train ticket, you may consider clubbing these two activities on the same day. 

Ticket booths at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok

Online via SRT D-Ticket App

Tickets are also available for purchase on the SRT D-Ticket app. Payment can be made via international debit and credit cards. 

SRT D-Ticket app available on Google Playstore

Ensure the correct “from” and “to” train stations are selected. Below is a screenshot of the train station details for reference. 

The app is free and can be downloaded from Google and Apple Playstore. I recommend purchasing via the app as it is convenient and does not incur any additional charges. The app is very user-friendly and available in English Language. 

Details of train station for purchasing your train ticket on the SRT D-Ticket app

Train options available after selecting the departure and arrival train stations

Train ticket options available for selection on the SRT D-Ticket app

Online via 12go.asia

Another platform option for ticket purchase is on 12go.asia. Select the same train stations as shared in the earlier screenshot. Then, proceed to select your preferred seat type. 

Screenshot of train ticket options available on 12go.asia

Travel agents on Khao San Road

Many travel agencies on Khao San Road offer services to book train tickets on your behalf. This is  a great alternative if you prefer to spend more time exploring Bangkok instead of travelling to Krung Thep Train Station to just book your ticket. 

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: What to expect

Thailand – Laos Border Crossing

Most travellers crossing this Thailand – Laos border are passengers from the train. Therefore, the crowd is significantly less. 

In my experience of taking the Bangkok to Vientiane train, the process is easy. 

When approaching Nong Khai, the train conductor announces the upcoming train station stop and informs passengers to prepare for Thailand immigration procedures. 

After the announcement, the train conductor will walk through the train coach to inform the passengers, especially international passengers to disembark the train to pass through the Thai Immigration border. 

Once my passport was stamped, I boarded the train. The train left the station after the queue was clear. The journey to Laos immigration border took another 30 minutes. 

Cross the Thai-Laos Friendship bridge

Similar to the Thai immigration border, Laos immigration border was not crowded. Upon arrival, immigration officers handed out arrival forms, which were to be filled in. After filling in your personal details, I proceeded to the Immigration counter. My passport was stamped. I am finally in Laos! 

Do take note that there are two queues. One queue is for travellers who require visa on arrival. Another queue is for travellers who do not require any visa on arrival. 

Queue for passport stamping at Khamsavath Station in Laos

Sleeping arrangement

Although the Bangkok to Vientiane train service is an overnight service, the train lights are left turned on throughout the journey. This is regardless of the train ticket options. 

Thus, if having too bright light at night for sleeping is a distraction, I recommend bringing sleeping eye masks to have a good rest. 

For AC sleeper or seat train coaches, comfy blankets are provided. 

For AC sleeper train coaches, a pillow is also provided. 

Just as the train is approaching at the Thai Immigration Border at Nong Khai, the train conducted will walk through the train coach to collect the blankets and pillows. This helps as to prevent anyone from tripping when getting off and on the train coach. 

Bangkok to Vientiane train coach for second class sleeper with A/C during the night. Curtains are available for privacy

Train facilities

Food: no vendors are walking through the train coaches throughout the train journey. Thus, I recommend bringing some snacks on your Bangkok to Vientiane train journey in case you get hungry at night!

Bathroom: the bathroom is clean and toilet paper is provided for use. 

Bathroom at the end of a train coach

Air conditioning (AC): in air conditioning coaches, the air conditioning is strong. Blankets provided were just nice to keep me warm throughout the journey. If you get cold easily, I recommend keeping a hoodie handy to pull over to keep you warm. 

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: What to bring

To have a comfortable journey, I recommend to have these on hand when taking the Bangkok to Vientiane train: 

1. Cash in Thai Baht or Lao Kips for border fees and transport
2. Check on visa requirements based on your respective passport
3. Snacks for the 11.5 hours Bangkok to Vientiane train journey
4. Hoodie to keep you warm and comfortable
5. Offline maps on your phone for navigation

Snack store at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: How to get to Vientiane town

Khamsavath Station is located approximately 9km (5.6 miles) away from Vientiane town. The station is massive and equipped with basic facilities that allow you to freshen up before continuing your onward journey. 

Given the distance, it is not feasible to travel by foot. There are a few options, suitable for all travellers type. 

1. Private bus

Private bus service is available. The ticket can be purchased at the train station in cash without reservation. 

Although it is called private bus, it is a minivan that takes up to 15 people for each service. 

The private bus service starts at the train station and ends at the Central bus station. The Central bus station is located near Talat Sao Morning Market, which is convenient if your accommodation is in the city centre. 

If you have more than one bag pack, I will not recommend taking the private bus as there is not much space. 

Ticket cost: 20,000 kips or 35 THB (USD 0.90)
Journey duration: 40 minutes
Pick up: Khamsavath station
Drop off: Central bus station

Private bus schedule

2. Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuk is a common mode of transport in Laos. Opting for a tuk-tuk ride is a great option if you have a few pieces of luggage or staying slightly a distance from the Central bus station. 

Prices differ depending on your drop-off location. However, prices are listed. 

Ticket cost: 50,000 kips (THB 77 // USD 2.30) and above
Journey duration: 30 minutes
Pick up location: Khamsavath station
Drop off: based on your preference

Tuk-tuk service schedule and prices

3. Private taxi / ride-hailing app

A private taxi or car is available for a faster, more comfortable journey. However, the fare will be more expensive than a tuk tuk or may be limited at some times during the day. 

Apps such as Loca Laos (similar to Grab or Uber) are available in Vientiane. You may download it from Apple or Google Playstore. 

Taxi fare: 150,000 – 200,000 kips (THB 230 – 310) // USD 7 – 12) 
Journey duration: depends on drop off location
Pick up location: Khamsavath station
Drop off: based on your preference

Various travel options to travel to Vientiane town at Khamsavath Station

Bangkok to Vientiane Train: Laos Data Connectivity

Multiple options to maintain connection with family and friends. 

eSIM is an easy option to stay connected during your travel. You can purchase an eSIM package on the Bangkok to Vientiane train journey. My go-to has been with Airalo as I can activate the eSIM immediately after purchase! Here’s USD3 credit for you!

If you missed purchasing an eSIM on your train journey, you can get a Laos SIM card at Khamsavath train station. There is a telco booth at the train station to purchase a local SIM card. 

Arriving at Khamsavath Station after the 11.5 hours travel from Bangkok to Vientiane

Final Thoughts

And there you go, here’s the complete guide to prepare you for your Bangkok to Vientiane train journey. 

Taking the Bangkok to Vientiane train is a fantastic way to experience travel between Thailand and Laos without incurring a significant budget and still enable you to travel to your final destination. 

Whether you are a backpacker or looking for a relaxed way to travel, opting for the Bangkok to Vientiane train is worth trying. I enjoyed my experience and will recommend anyone to experience this opportunity. 

Do share your experience of taking the Bangkok to Vientiane train in the comments below.