Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems; untouched by the crowds and heavy tourism often seen in its neighboring countries, but it won’t stay that way much longer! Loas is one of the last frontier lands, with dramatic landscapes, vibrant tribal cultures, and some of the best adventure activities in Asia. Yet for years, one thing held travelers back: getting around. With winding, largely unsealed roads, few people having an actual driver’s license, and limited public transport options, travel in Laos has been notoriously challenging and only for the most intrepid amongst us.

The opening of the Laos-China Railway has changed everything. This high-speed train connects the capital, Vientiane, with popular destinations like Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Getting between one and the next takes just under and hour and is a surprisingly efficient, safe and orderly experience.

At an average fare of just USD 7 for a ticket, train travel is a quick and affordable way to experience more of this beautiful country. That said, train travel in Laos comes with a few quirks. Here’s what you need to know:

Ticket Purchasing
You can’t buy train tickets online yet; tickets are sold exclusively at train stations, and they’re only available for purchase two to three days before departure. You’ll need to bring cash and your passport to the station, as there’s no other way to buy tickets as a tourist. Another catch: you can only buy one leg of your journey at a time, so plan to purchase your return or next-leg ticket once you reach your destination.
Plan for Station Requirements
Arrive at least an hour before departure, as lines can get busy, and stations can be tricky to navigate. Be mindful of the 20 kg luggage limit per passenger. And while the train is modern, the stations lack certain amenities—there are no toilets and no food vendors at most stops. Bring snacks and water for your journey, and keep your passport handy, as you’ll need it to board.
Cultural Considerations
Although the railway has streamlined travel, once you step aboard, there are is one cultural consideration that remains unchanged: females should never sit next to a monk; especially if you’re a foreigner! They won’t ask that you move - but they’ll remain standing and everyone else will look rather perplexed as no one will want to offend you. But simply ask a local man if he’d mind swapping seats with you, and you’ll be amazed at the collective sigh of relief and gratitude for diffusing an awkward situation.

With its efficient new train system, Laos is more accessible than ever, allowing travelers to experience the unique culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden treasures with ease. Embrace the adventure, and be sure to discover the beauty of Laos in comfort before the hoards of Instagrammers and tour buses descend!

Here’s the train timetable link:

https://explore-laos.com/laos-china-railway-schedule-and-pricing