There’s something undeniably romantic about long train rides – the rhythmic chugging, the ever-changing scenery, and the chance to just sit back and let the world pass by. But if you don’t have enough ALs to embark on the full overland trek from Singapore to Hanoi, here’s the next best thing: a direct overnight train from Bangkok to Vientiane.
Covering 650km in just 15 hours, this cross-border sleeper train takes you all the way to Laos’ capital city, making it a hassle-free way to travel between the 2 countries. Plus, you’ll get to cross the iconic Mekong River, adding yet another scenic moment to your travel bucket list. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique train journey:
The current exchange rate is ฿25.28=~S$1 as of 7th March 2025.
Not all train rides are built the same, and on this overnight journey from Bangkok to Vientiane, you’ve got a few options depending on your budget and comfort level.
The most basic option is the 3rd class seat (฿281) – perfect if you’re on a tight budget or just taking the train for the experience. But be warned: these are standard seats with no air-conditioning, so expect a fan-cooled, back-to-basics ride.
For something comfier, the 2nd class air-conditioned cabin (฿574) gets you a reclining seat, complete with blankets provided for those chilly overnight hours.
The sleeper carriage.
Screenshot from: wecanfly777 via YouTube
Then, there’s the sleeper carriage, which is the way to go if you actually want to sleep. Choose between the upper bed (฿784) or the lower bed (฿874), both of which come with charging ports, a light switch, and a mini staircase to climb up to the upper deck. And yes, there are bathrooms onboard, so no need to worry about holding it in till Laos.
Screenshot from: The State Railway of Thailand
If you’re the type to wing it, you can buy your ticket directly at the train station before departure. But for peace of mind – especially during peak travel seasons – it’s best to book in advance.
You can secure your ticket up to 180 days ahead via the D-Ticket Railway website. The process is straightforward:
Booking ahead ensures you won’t be left scrambling for a spot, especially if you’re eyeing the more comfortable sleeper carriages.
Image credit: The State Railway of Thailand
Your journey kicks off at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Bangkok’s main railway station. From here, the train travels overnight through the Thai countryside, covering over 600km before reaching Nong Khai Railway Station. This is the last stop before Laos.
There’s no food or drink service, so it’s a good idea to dabao some snacks before hopping on. While there aren’t full-sized shops at the train station, you’ll find vending machines stocked with some snacks.
Views of the Mekong River from Nong Khai.
Image credit: @lexthestoic via Instagram
After about 10-11 hours, you’ll arrive at Nong Khai, a city in Northeast Thailand sitting right on the Laos border. Here, you’ll need to disembark and fill in your Laos arrival card, get your passport stamped at Thai immigration, and have your luggage checked before crossing the border.
Once that’s done, you’re ready to board the train for the final stretch into Laos.
Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.
Image: Tourism Authority of Thailand
From Nong Khai Railway Station, hop back on the train for the short but scenic ride into Laos. This leg of the journey takes you over the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, a key landmark that stretches across the Mekong River, linking Thailand and Laos. It’s a pretty special moment, so grab a window seat if you can. Additionally, remember to hold onto your ticket, as officials will check it again at the border crossing.
Khamsavath Railway Station.
Image credit: @teacherhannahjon via Instagram
The train arrives at the newly built Khamsavath Railway Station in Vientiane, which serves as the final stop. Once you disembark, you can purchase a bus ticket to Vientiane’s city centre for LAK 20,000/adult (~S$1.23). The station is about 9km from the city, so a bus or tuk-tuk ride will get you to the heart of the action in no time.
If you’re all about slow travel or just want a more scenic, budget-friendly way to get from Thailand to Laos, this overnight train journey is a solid option. It’s a fuss-free way to tick crossing the Mekong by rail off your bucket list, plus you’ll save on one night’s accommodation while waking up refreshed for a full day of exploring in Vientiane.
And if you’d rather not take the train back, Scoot flies direct from Vientiane to Singapore, so you’ve got options for the return trip too.
More slow travel ideas:
Cover image adapted from: The State Railway of Thailand & @lexthestoic via Instagram
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