Take the train across the Mekong River

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck **Review of Train Ride from Nong Khai Station (Thailand) to Khamsavat Station (Vientiane)** Traveling by train from **Nong Khai Station (Thailand)** to **Khamsavat Station** in **Laos PDR** is a convenient and interesting short cross-country route, suitable for tourists who want to experience local travel. And see the view of the Mekong River along the way --- ### **Basic information** - **Route**: Nong Khai Station (Thailand) → Cross the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge → Khamsawad Station (Laos) - **Distance**: Approximately **3.5 kilometers** (Only **15 minutes on the train**) - **Departure time**: There are **2-3 trips** per day (e.g. morning 07:30 and afternoon 14:00 *should check the latest schedule*) - **Ticket price**: 20-.200 baht --- ### **Detailed travel steps** 1. **Start at Nong Khai Railway Station** - Nong Khai Railway Station is located in the city center, approximately 2 km from the Thai-Laos border checkpoint (Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge, Nong Khai). - **Buy train tickets**: Buy them at the ticket counter in the station. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure time. 2. **Pass through the Thai immigration checkpoint** - Before boarding the train, you must check your passport at the Thai immigration checkpoint inside Nong Khai Station. 3. **Take the train across the Mekong River** - The train will move slowly across the **Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge**. This is a highlight where you can take beautiful pictures of the Mekong River and the bridge. - Arrive at **Khamsavad Station** in Vientiane Municipality. 4. **Pass through the Lao immigration checkpoint** - Get off the train at Khamsavad Station to submit your passport for a Lao visa (if you do not have a visa in advance). - **Laos visa fee**: Approximately 30-50 USD (or 1,500-2,000 baht). Prepare 1 photo. - *Note*: If you are traveling for a day trip, you must also check the return train schedule. 5. **Travel from Khamsavad Station to Vientiane City** - From Khamsavad Station There are tuk-tuks or taxis for hire into Vientiane (about 20 km, 30-40 minutes). - **Fare**: About 200-300 baht --- ### **Highlights of the route** - **Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge view** – The view of the Mekong River from the train is beautiful and rare. - **Experience crossing the border by train** – It is a unique cross-country route. - **Save time** – It takes less time than taking a bus or driving a private car. - **Suitable for adventurers** – You can experience the local travel culture. --- ### **Things to know/cautions** 1. **Check the train schedule in advance** – Times may change depending on the season or railway policy. 2. **Prepare your documents** – Passport (with more than 6 months of validity), USD/THB cash (for visa fees and expenses in Laos) 3. **Train condition** – It is a local train without air conditioning, it can be hot in the summer. 4. **Essentials** – Drinking water, hats, power banks (Laos stations have few facilities) 5. **Beware of luggage** – If you bring a large bag, you may be charged an additional fee. --- ### **Other travel options** - **Cross-border bus** – From the Thai-Laos Friendship Gate, it takes about 1 hour to reach Vientiane. --- ### **Places to visit near Khamsawad Station** - **Wat Sisaket** – An ancient temple over 200 years old - **Vientiane Patuxay** – An important symbol of Laos - **Vientiane Morning Market** – Try local food and shop for local products --- ### **Summary** Taking the train from Nong Khai to Khamsawad is suitable for those who like to travel without rushing and want to experience crossing the border by train. Although there are document checks that need to be prepared, it is worth it with the Mekong River view and unique impressions. For those who want convenience and speed, you can choose to take a bus or taxi instead.