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Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang from $18: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chiang Rai, Thailand
to
Luang Prabang, Laos

How to Get from Chiang Rai 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.

$18 - Bus, ferryBest price
150 milesDistance
4h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chiang Rai 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.

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
12h  7m
Estimated price
$19-23
Recommended
route map
Distance: 150 miles
Duration: 4h 26m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
14h  21m
Estimated price
$29-33
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
13h  22m
Estimated price
$31-41
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  49m
Estimated price
$75-120
Company
Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Mentari
Plane
Average Duration
4h  26m
Estimated price
$100-233
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Traveling From Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang

The journey from Chiang Rai, with its lush mountains and vibrant night markets, to Luang Prabang, known for its serene temples and French colonial charm, offers travelers a striking contrast between bustling Thai culture and tranquil Laotian beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang features charming neighborhoods, each brimming with culture and history.

Old Town
• UNESCO World Heritage Site with preserved architecture.
• Offers vibrant markets and historical temples.
Mount Phousi
• Stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
• Popular for sunrise and sunset experiences.
Ban Phonheuang
• Home to local artisans and traditional crafts.
• Less touristy, providing an authentic experience.

Best Times To Visit Luang Prabang's Attractions

Explore Luang Prabang's must-see spots by timing your visits wisely for a memorable experience.

Wat Xieng Thong
Visit early morning to enjoy peaceful surroundings and stunning light.
Kuang Si Waterfall
Go on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and fully appreciate nature.
Night Market
Explore after sunset for a vibrant atmosphere and cooler temperatures.

Luang Prabang Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Luang Prabang enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October, making the dry months the best time for exploring its attractions. Be mindful that heavy rains in the wet season can impact travel plans, but they also bring lush scenery and fewer tourists.

Dining Recommendation in Luang Prabang

In Luang Prabang, savor the dish ‘laap’—a flavorful minced meat salad infused with fresh herbs, lime, and fish sauce at the popular restaurant Tamarind, which emphasizes local ingredients and traditional preparation methods. This contrasts with Chiang Rai’s more robust, spicy flavors, creating a unique dining experience that showcases a lighter, herbaceous profile amidst a charming, rustic atmosphere.

Chiang Rai - Luang Prabang operators

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

Bus

Bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang khong

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$1-3

Bus from Huay Xai - Bokeo Station to Luang Prabang - Naluang Station

Average Duration
11h
Estimated price
$24-24
Ferry
Website
facebook.com

Ferry from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$14-14
Website
girlswanderlust.com

Ferry from Huay Xai to Pakbeng

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$10-16
Website
hobomaps.com

Ferry from Pakbeng to Luang Prabang

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$16-16
all-pages.transport_minivan
Contact phone
856071212979
Website
https://12go.asia/en

all-pages.transport_minivan from Huay Xai - Bokeo Station to Luang Prabang - Naluang Station

Average Duration
11h
Estimated price
$24-24
Plane Show flights
Website
airasia.com

Plane from Chiang Rai (CEI) to Luang Prabang (LPQ)

Average Duration
4h 51m
Estimated price
$90-250

Plane from Chiang Rai (CEI) to Luang Prabang (LPQ)

Average Duration
4h 51m
Estimated price
$90-250

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

Traveling between Chiang Rai 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 an unforgettable road trip from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, spanning a distance of 442.6 km, offering scenic views of lush landscapes along the journey. 💰 Prices for this epic road adventure range from $75 to $120, ensuring a budget-friendly yet enriching travel experience that includes border crossings and diverse cultural encounters. ⏱️ With an estimated driving time of 7 hours and 49 minutes, this cross-country expedition promises an immersive exploration of Northern Thailand and Laos, creating lasting memories for any adventurous traveler.
Average price
$75 - $120
🛫 Traveling from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang by plane involves a flight with a stopover, typically lasting around 4 hours and 10 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang can range from $100 to $233, making it a relatively affordable means of transportation between the two destinations.
Departure Point
Chiang Rai Airport
Arrival Point
Luang Prabang Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 10m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang is approximately 241.4 km or 443.4 km by road. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. If you take a local bus and then a ferry, it will take around 12 hours and 7 minutes. Flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of just 4 hours and 16 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take around 7 hours and 49 minutes by car from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang is by taking a local bus and then a ferry, which typically costs between $18 and $23 and takes around 12 hours and 7 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes and costs between $100 and $260.
To get from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang without using public transportation, you can hire a private car or taxi service. The driving distance is approximately 442.6 km and it takes around 7 hours and 49 minutes to drive from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang. The prices for hiring a car or taxi service can range from $75 to $120, depending on the provider and vehicle type.
The flight duration between Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang typically takes around 6 hours and 45 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there are no direct flights between Chiang Rai Airport and Luang Prabang Airport. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $100 to $253 depending on the airline, season, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Luang Prabang with over 238 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $18, offering a range of budget-friendly options.