1. Bus from Vientiane
2. Bus from Nong Khai
3. Flights to Chiang Mai
4. Bus+Train to Chiang Mai
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🎫 Book Tickets + Flights
From Vientiane to Chiang Mai you can travel by plane, bus, or bus+train.
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- Travel distance from Vientiane to Chiang Mai is about 670 km if you cross the border in Nong Khai at the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. There are some options how you can travel from Vientiane to Chiang Mai. You can travel from Vientiane by bus or you can book a flight. The best and fastest option is to travel by plane. Travel by plane from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) costs about $80-180/pp. You can also travel by tourist bus from Vientiane, or you can cross the border to Nong Khai (about 25 km from Vientiane – by taxi or local bus) and from Nong Khai you can go by another tourist bus. There are also buses from Vientiane to Udon Thani and in Udon Thani you can take your next bus to Chiang Mai. Travel by train to Chiang Mai is also available, but first you have to travel by bus to Nong Khai in Thailand. From Nong Khai you can travel by sleeper train to Bangkok and from Bangkok you can take another train to Chiang Mai. Travel by train from Nong Khai to Chiang Mai via Bangkok takes about 24-28 hours. You can search and book tickets and flights to Chiang Mai from Vientiane online.
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- Chiang Mai – the most visited place in northern part of Thailand. Chiang Mai is a slightly different area than south of Thailand – fresh air, nature, mountains, ethnic minorities and buddhist relics. Chiang Mai offers lots of interesting attractions for tourist but also for solo adventure travelers. Chiang Mai in Thailand is also a popular site for digital nomads from all the world. Chiang Mai offers various trips to the mountains or visiting various temples and pagodas in the city. It is also a good place for visit if you want to travel to Myanmar. It is very easy to travel to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, but it is very easy to travel there from Vientiane (the capital of Laos)? There are few options how you can travel from Vientiane in Laos to Chiang Mai in Thailand – by tourist sleeper bus, by bus+train via Nong Khai and Bangkok and by plane with stop in Bangkok. Chiang Mai has an airport and travel by plane is the fastest option of transfer. From Chiang Mai you can also travel to Chiang Rai or Mae Hong Son.
| Transfer Mode – Vientiane to Chiang Mai: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Bus | 18 hours | $30-40/pp |
| Plane (with stopover) | 5-9 hours | $80-180/pp |
| Bus + Plane (via Udon Thani) | 6-7 hours | $70-100/pp |
| Bus + Train (via Bangkok) | 24-27 hours | – |
How do I get from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
1. BUS from Vientiane to Chiang Mai
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- travel by bus from Vientiane to Chiang Mai takes about 18 hours
- modern, comfortable and airconditioned buses and minivans
- transit in Nong Khai border town or in Udon Thani in Thailand
- bus companies to Chiang Mai: Thai-Lao International Bus
- one-way bus ticket from Vientiane to Chiang Mai costs about $40/pp
- Book and buy bus e-tickets to Chiang Mai and see the schedule on Baolau ➜
- you will receive your bus e-ticket to Chiang Mai by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus in Vientiane
2. BUS from Nong Khai to Chiang Mai
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- Nong Khai border town in Thailand is only about 25 km from Vientiane
- from Vientiane to Nong Khai you can go by taxi or local bus
- travel by bus from Nong Khai to Chiang Mai takes about 12 hours
- modern and comfortable airconditioned bus
- bus companies to Chiang Mai: Sueksa Tourm, Orsuksa Tour, Phet Prasert, PST Transit Service
- one-way bus ticket costs about $27-32/pp
- it is strongly recommended to come at least in 30 min before departure
- there are also some buses with transit in Udon Thani
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- there are also buses from Vientiane in Laos to Chiang Mai with stopover in Udon Thani
- bus companies: Thai-Lao International Bus, PSDT Transit Service, Phet Prasert…
- Book and buy bus e-tickets to Chiang Mai and see the schedule on 12go.asia ➜
- you will receive your bus e-ticket to Chiang Mai by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus in Vientiane
3. FLIGHTS from Vientiane to Chiang Mai
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- there is no direct flight between Vientiane and Chiang Mai (1 transfer/stopover in Bangkok)
- the fastest and most comfortable way how to get from Vientiane to Chiang Mai
- airport in Vientiane – Wattay International Airport
- airport in Chiang Mai – Chiang Mai International Airport
- it is a little bit more expensive way of transport
- flight time is about 5-9 hours with transfer in Bangkok
- price of the one-way flight with stopover costs about $80-180/pp
- airlines to Chiang Mai: AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways…
- Book and buy your flight from Vientiane to Chiang Mai on 12go.asia ➜
4. BUS + FLIGHT from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Udon Thani)
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- you can also travel by bus+plane via Udon Thani in Thailand
- travel by bus/van from Vientiane to Udon Thani takes about 4 hours
- travel by plane from Udon Thani to Chiang Mai takes about 1 hour
- travel by bus and plane via Udon Thani costs about $70-100/pp
- Book your bus tickets + flights via Udon Thani on 12go.asia ➜
5. BUS + TRAIN from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok)
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- from Vientiane to Nong Khai border town you can travel by bus or private car
- travel time by bus or taxi to Nong Khai from Vietiane is only about 1 hour (via border crossing)
- you can search and book bus tickets online with 12go.asia
A) Bus / Taxi from Vientiane to Nong Khai
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B) Train from Nong Khai to Bangkok
- from Nong Khai to Bangkok you can travel by train of Thai Railways
- travel time by train from Nong Khai to Bangkok is about 11 hours
- there are sleeper or seat comfortable trains
- read this: How to go from Nong Khai to Bangkok?
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C) Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- one of the most popular railway tourist route is to Chiang Mai from Bangkok
- from Bangkok to Chiang Mai it takes about 12-13 hours by train
- there are modern sleeper or seat 1st or 2nd class tourist trains to Chiang Mai
- read this: How to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai?
- you can check current Thailand Railway Map + Thailand Train Timetable
What is Baolau?
– a company specializing in train, bus, ferry tickets and flights mainly for Vietnam (+Cambodia and Laos)
– you can buy also a bus and ferry tickets (Mai Linh, Hoang Long, Hung Thanh, The SinhTourist, Futabus…)
– flights of Vietnamese Airlines, Jetstar, VietJet Air as well as flights to neighbouring countries
– ferry tickets in Vietnam (eg. ferry to Cat Ba, ferry to Phu Quoc, ferry to Phnom Penh, ferry Con Dao to Saigon…)
– tickets for Malaysia (eg. Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, Penang to Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands…)
– the price of tickets depends on the official price of transport company
– you will see the final price before you make a payment transaction
– acceptable online train e-ticket in your mobile phone in Vietnam (I recommend to print a ticket)
– you can select a seat or berth in the train, read also frequently asked questions on Baolau
What is 12go.asia?
– specialist for bus, train, ferry tickets and flights mainly for Thailand (+tickets for Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia)
– from 2018 you can book train tickets for China online (Shanghai to Nanjing, Shenzhen to Guangzhou, Shanghai to Suzhou…)
– ferry/boat tickets in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, eg. ferry to Vung Tau, Koh Chang, Koh Kood, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi…
– tickets for the most frequented railway routes in Thailand – Bangkok > Chiang Mai, Bangkok > Surat Thani, Bangkok > Kanchanaburi..
– you can use an online train ticket in Vietnam + Thailand in your smartphone
– if you buy a ticket of private trains in Vietnam to Lao Cai on 12go.asia or Baolau (Fansipan Express, Sapaly…), you must pick it up at the station
– read any other additional information, when you order a ticket
– information about 12go.asia read in article about transportation in Vietnam
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Vientiane to Chiang Mai:
1. How to book and buy tickets or flights from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
2. How long does it take to get from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel by tourist bus from Vientiane to Chiang Mai takes about 18 hours.
- Travel by plane (with stopover) from Vientiane to Chiang Mai takes about 5-9 hour.
- Travel by bus+plane from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Udon Thani) takes about 6-7 hours.
- Travel by bus+train from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) takes about 24-27 hours.
3. What is the travel distance from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel distance from Vientiane to Chiang Mai is about 670 km by land.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- Travel by tourist bus from Vientiane to Chiang Mai costs about $30-40/pp.
- Travel by plane (with stopover) from Vientiane to Chiang Mai costs about $80-180/pp.
- Travel by bus+plane from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Udon Thani ) costs about $70-100/pp.
5. What is the best way of transport from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- The best way of getting from Vientiane to Chiang Mai is to travel by plane. But there are no direct flights between these cities, there are flights to Bangkok and from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Teoretically you can take a direct flight from Luang Prabang in Laos to Chiang Mai.
6. What is the fastest way of getting from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- The fastest way of getting from Vientiane to Chiang Mai is to travel by plane – take a flight via Bangkok.
7. What is the cheapest way of transport from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- The cheapest way of transport from Vientiane to Chiang Mai is to travel by tourist bus.
8. Is it possible to travel by train from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- No, there is no direct train between Vientiane and Chiang Mai. If you want to travel by train you have to take a train from Nong Khai (border town in Thailand) to Bangkok and train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Travel by train via Bangkok takes totally about 25 hours. You can also go back by train to Bangkok from Chiang Mai.
9. What is another way of getting from Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- There are also various different ways how you can travel from Vientiane to Chiang Mai. E.g. you can travel by bus/van from Vientiane to Udon Thani (about 4 hours) and in Udon Thani you can take a direct flight to Chiang Mai. There are also trains from Udon Thani to Chiang Mai via Bangkok.
10. Is it possible to travel by private taxi/car Vientiane to Chiang Mai?
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- Yes, it is possible to travel by private taxi, but it has 3 steps. You can take a private taxi to Nong Khai, from Nong Khai to Bangkok and from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You can search and book your private taxi or car with 12go.asia. This option is the most expensive way of transport.
11. Where you can also travel from Chiang Mai?
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- If you are already in Chiang Mai, you can go to Chiang Rai or Nan and Phayao. There are some tourist buses or private cars to these sites from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3.
12. How to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
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- From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai you can travel by tourist bus/van or private taxi. Travel time is about 3-5 hours and bus tickets cost about $7-11/pp. You can also book your private transfer/car easily online.
- Read this article > How to get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai?
13. How to travel solo in Thailand?
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- Embark on a solo adventure in Thailand by researching destinations, ensuring personal safety, trying local experiences, connecting with fellow travelers, and savoring the diverse landscapes and attractions the country has to offer. Traveling on your own in Thailand is very popular by travelers. Read this article: Solo Travel in Thailand.
14. What are the most interesting things and facts about Thailand?
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- In summary, Thailand is a multifaceted gem that captivates visitors with its unique blend of cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality. From the enchanting traditions of its classical arts like Khon to the exhilarating water festivities of Songkran, the country offers a sensory feast. Thailand’s diverse landscapes, ranging from tropical islands to mountainous regions, contribute to its allure, making it a destination that seamlessly combines ancient traditions with modern vibrancy. The symphony of flavors in Thai cuisine and the welcoming smiles of its people further enrich the tapestry of experiences. Read this article: 15 Interesting Things of Thailand.
15. What is the weather and climate in Thailand?
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- Weather in Thailand varies across three main seasons, creating a tropical climate. The hot season typically spans from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). During this period, the weather is characterized by intense heat and occasional brief showers. The rainy season occurs from July to October, bringing heavy monsoon rains and increased humidity. Average temperatures remain high, ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C). The cool season, from November to February, is marked by milder temperatures and lower humidity. Average temperatures range from 64°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C), making it a popular time for tourism.
16. Is traveling and living in Thailand cheap or expensive?
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- The cost of traveling and living in Thailand can vary depending on various factors such as lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. Generally, Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, attracting travelers seeking affordable adventures. While Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination, costs can vary depending on whether you choose to live in popular tourist areas or less-explored regions. Overall, many people find that the cost of living in Thailand offers good value for money.
17. What is the official currency of Thailand and how to exchange money?
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- The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). To exchange money, you can visit banks, currency exchange booths, or use ATMs. Banks typically offer competitive exchange rates, but may charge transaction fees. Currency exchange booths are convenient, often open longer hours, but their rates might be less favorable. Using ATMs connected to banks is a common and convenient option; however, be mindful of potential withdrawal fees from both your home bank and the local Thai bank. Always check rates and fees beforehand to make informed choices.
18. What is the cuisine and food in Thailand and what to expect?
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- Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant and harmonious flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter elements in each dish. Expect a diverse range of dishes, often aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass, basil or galangal. Rice, a staple, plays a central role, and street food is a must-try for an authentic culinary experience. Signature dishes include Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice. Embrace the rich cultural diversity through regional variations, and don’t miss out on the lively street food culture.
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4 Ways of Transfer from Vientiane to Chiang Mai:
| 1. BUS from Vientiane to Chiang Mai | |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | About 18 hours |
| Bus Companies | Thai-Lao International Bus |
| Bus Ticket Price | About $40/pp |
| 2. BUS from Nong Khai to Chiang Mai | |
| Travel Time | About 12 hours |
| Bus Companies | Sueksa Tourm, Orsuksa Tour, Phet Prasert, PST Transit Service |
| Bus Ticket Price | About $27-32/pp |
| 3. FLIGHTS from Vientiane to Chiang Mai | |
| Airlines | AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways |
| Flight Duration | About 5-9 hours (with transfer in Bangkok) |
| Flight Ticket Price | About $80-180/pp |
| 4. BUS + TRAIN from Vientiane to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) | |
| Travel Time (Vientiane to Nong Khai) | About 1 hour |
| Train Travel Time (Nong Khai to Bangkok) | About 11 hours |
| Train Travel Time (Bangkok to Chiang Mai) | About 12-13 hours |
🎫 Book your tickets or flights from Vientiane to Chiang Mai + Schedule:
(You can change your travel route, e.g. Vientiane > Bangkok, Bangkok > Chiang Mai…)