Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang from $11: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$11 by busBest price

220.2 milesDistance

3h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang

The journey from Chiang Mai, known for its vibrant markets and rich cultural heritage, to Luang Prabang, famous for its serene temples and lush landscapes, offers a fascinating contrast that highlights the diverse beauty of Southeast Asia.

Best Neighbourhoods in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang features charming neighborhoods brimming with culture and history.

Old Town

• UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture.

• Home to vibrant night markets and local restaurants.

Sisavangvong Road

• Bustling street lined with cafes and shops.

• Close to key attractions like the Royal Palace.

Mount Phousi

• Offers panoramic views of the city and river.

• A spiritual hub with numerous temples and shrines.

Best Times To Visit Luang Prabang's Attractions

Timing your visits to Luang Prabang's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Kuang Si Waterfalls

Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.

Wat Xieng Thong

Late afternoon offers softer light for photos and a peaceful ambiance.

Mount Phousi

Sunrise or sunset provides breathtaking views and a tranquil setting.

Luang Prabang Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Luang Prabang enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it crucial to consider weather patterns when planning your trip. The dry season from November to March generally offers cooler temperatures and clear skies, enhancing your exploration of this beautiful city.

Dining Recommendation in Luang Prabang

Try the local dish of Larb, a fragrant minced meat salad seasoned with fresh herbs and lime, which reflects Laos' emphasis on simplicity and bold flavors. Unlike the complex curries and street food vibes of Chiang Mai, dining in Luang Prabang often features serene settings, allowing you to savor the fresh, local ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere.

Chiang Mai - Luang Prabang operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

laoairlines.com

Plane from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) to Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ)

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$110-300

Bus

Contact phone

1490

Website

home.transport.co.th

Bus from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Luang Prabang Naluang International Bus Station

Average Duration

18h

Estimated price

$11-35

Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🌿 Embark on a scenic journey from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang by car, spanning over 619.6 km of lush landscapes and picturesque vistas. 🚘 Enjoy a leisurely road trip that takes approximately 9 hours and 58 minutes, allowing you to witness the gradual change in scenery from Thailand to Laos. 💰 Depending on your choice of transport and services, prices to reach Luang Prabang from Chiang Mai by car range from $110 to $160, offering flexibility for different travel budgets.

Average price

$110 - $160

A direct flight from Chiang Mai Airport to Luang Prabang Airport will get you there in just 1 hour and 10 minutes with Lao Airlines. ✈️ If you opt for a connecting flight, the total travel time between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang by plane will be approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between these two picturesque destinations can range from $92 to $229, offering travelers flexibility in their budget planning.

Departure Point

Chiang Mai Airport

Arrival Point

Luang Prabang Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Make sure to check the baggage policy for Lao Airlines, as they can be strict about weight limits; packing light will save you potential fees and hassle.

• Upon arriving at Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ), follow the signs to the main exit to find convenient taxi services; expect to pay around 50,000 to 70,000 LAK (approximately $5-$7) to reach the city center.

• Check Lao Airlines for flight updates and schedule changes directly at their website (laoairlines.com) for the most current travel information and dining options on board.

🚌 Embark on an adventurous journey from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Luang Prabang Naluang International Bus Station by bus. Services are available four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, offering a scenic ride that lasts approximately 18 hours. 🌄 Traverse through picturesque landscapes and charming villages as you make your way from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang with The Transport Company. Experience the cultural richness of both Thailand and Laos during the comfortable bus ride, taking in the beauty of Southeast Asia along the way. 💰 Prices for the bus between Luang Prabang and Chiang Mai range from $11 to $35, making this an affordable and convenient option for travelers seeking a unique overland experience. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the long journey that connects these two enchanting destinations in Southeast Asia.

Departure Point

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal station

Arrival Point

Luang Prabang Naluang International Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang is 354.1 km by air and 619.8 km by road. The typical travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Flying is the quickest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. Driving by car takes about 9 hours and 58 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 18 hours.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang is by bus, which costs $11-$35. However, the journey by bus takes around 18 hours, so it is not the most time-efficient option. If time is a priority, the fastest way to reach Luang Prabang from Chiang Mai is by flying, which takes only 3 hours and 29 minutes. However, the cost for this option ranges from $90 to $230.

The prices of a bus ticket between Luang Prabang and Chiang Mai can vary depending on the type of bus and the season. On average, the prices range from $11 to $35.

The best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang without using public transportation is by renting a car and driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 619.6 km and it takes about 9 hours and 58 minutes to reach Luang Prabang from Chiang Mai by car. The price to rent a car for this journey can vary, with prices ranging from $110 to $160.

To travel from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 18 hours and the cost ranges from $11 to $35.

Yes, there is a direct link between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang by bus. The bus service operated by The Transport Company departs from Chiang Mai four times a week, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The journey takes approximately 18 hours, and the buses arrive at Luang Prabang station.

The flight between Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The prices for this route can vary from $92 to $229, depending on the airline and time of booking.

There are a variety of accommodation options available near Luang Prabang. With over 238 hotels to choose from, you can find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $18 per night, making it accessible for all types of travelers.