Chiang Mai to Vientiane

Chiang Mai to Vientiane

Chiang Mai
Vientiane
Tue, Dec 9
+ Add return
0 Passengers
Finding the best routes for you — almost ready!
Sort by
Recommended
Filters
Departure time
Price
Arrival time
 
 
 
 
 

Chiang Mai to Vientiane Destination Reviews

CB
Not really a POOR experience, and not an AVERAGE experience, somewhat in-between. First off, at the CM bus terminal, I was told I needed to load a social media app, but without explanation as to why. It became obvious why, after I got on the bus to leave. I am not an avid social media user, but felt it was a must for this trip. The agent took my picture with her cell, again with no explanation. I found out later it was to identify me to the Udon Thani agent at the transfer point. Although I appreciate that, the non-communication was upsetting. With so many English-speaking passengers, there should be a multi-lingual Thai agent on the bus and at the stations to assist foreigners and help explain what's going on. The tickets should show each stop, toilet breaks and transfer points. I appreciated both agents assistance, but to have an explanation would've made the trip more comfortable. However, using the messaging app came in handy as it made communication better and translated the languages. Every question or concern I had was addressed expediently through communicating with the app. The agents were extremely helpful and prompt. Given the fact, Tara Tour was located a few steps from the station in Udon Thani and not at the terminal itself, sending my photo to the agent there was a great idea. He located me quickly. The ride from Udon Thani was enjoyable, no real issues. They issued blankets, water and a snack. The assigned seat was also perfect.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Nov 15, 2025
M
The bus arrived on time but it was a bit complicated to find the right bus stops between all the terminals. Also the toilet were a bit filthy but overall the ride was good and they give you a blanket as well as water and food so that is quiet nice.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Nov 12, 2025
AR
Ya is the best travel assistant I have ever had. Was very patient and knowledgeable about the entire trip!! 10/10!!
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Oct 24, 2025
M
As expected, ok comfortable
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Oct 4, 2025
FT
Very few information, we feel alone in a complex process of boarding in another country. No information about bus departure, real ticket and so on until one hour before departure. In general was very uncomfortable.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Sep 6, 2025
BB
The bus itself is fine - big comfy seats, duvet-blanket, AC and lights out for the whole journey so you can actually sleep. Be aware that it's not a continuous bus all the way to Vientiane. The coach stops at Nong Khai (Thai side of the border), where all the locals end their journey. Someone cattle-prods the tourists (ie you!) into an overloaded tuk-tuk to the actual border. Then you're told to get on another local bus once you've crossed to the Laos side of the border. The info is sent piecemeal by whatsapp messages and photos with instructions. Honestly, you're probably better off just getting the bus to Nong Khai and doing the rest yourself. It's easy enough to work out (get a taxi to the actual border, then another on the other side) and almost certainly cheaper.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), May 8, 2025
4.4
21 customer reviews
5
38%
4
19%
3
19%
2
24%
1
0%

Chiang Mai to Vientiane Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Flight
Asiana Airlines
Economy
00:05
13:20
$911.06
Flight
Jeju Air
Economy
00:45
00:25
$837.42
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
06:20
14:15
$141.70
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
06:50
13:20
$223.15
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
07:10
13:20
$178.43
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
07:55
07:35
$172.77
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
08:15
07:35
$143.10
Flight
Myanmar Airways Intl
Economy
08:50
19:00
$249.05
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
09:10
13:20
$223.15
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
09:35
15:35
$258.54
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
10:05
14:15
$131.64
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
10:25
07:35
$119.83
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
10:45
22:20
$330.04
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
11:05
07:35
$125.65
Flight
China Southern Airlines
Economy
11:30
17:45
$336.08
Flight
Thai Vietjet
Economy
11:50
10:55
$272.64
Flight
Bangkok Airways
Economy
12:10
21:50
$176.84
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
12:35
21:50
$155.90
Flight
Nok Air
Economy
13:20
14:15
$130.89
Flight
Thai AirAsia
Economy
13:50
21:50
$157.06

Transportation from Chiang Mai to Vientiane

Facts about the transport from Chiang Mai to Vientiane

Cheapest Transport$39
Fastest Transport3h
Earliest Departure7:10 AM
Latest Departure11:30 PM
Departures per day5
Distance150 kilometers
Transport CompaniesEasyride Services, Mekong Transfer, Nakhonchai Air, Naluang, Orsuksa Tour, Scoot, Tara Tour and Travel, Terminal Green Pai, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways

How to get from Chiang Mai to Vientiane

Travelling between Chiang Mai and Vientiane is possible by Flight, bus, train, van and taxi. Taxi guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Train+van is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 114.43 if you go by Van; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a van which will set you back mere USD 90.91.

How long does it take to get from Chiang Mai to Vientiane?

It can take you anywhere between 3 and 61 hours to travel between Chiang Mai and Vientiane depending on the means of transport you choose.

Taxi is the fastest way to travel between Chiang Mai and Vientiane. Taxi will bring you to your destination in 3h. Train+van does a much slower job and take about 2d 12h 30m to reach Vientiane.

How much does it cost to get from Chiang Mai to Vientiane?

Travelling between Chiang Mai and Vientiane can be as cheap as USD 90.91 if you opt for a Terminal Green Pai van and as expensive as USD 114.43 if you buy a Terminal Green Pai Van ticket.

Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.

How many trips per day are there between Chiang Mai and Vientiane ?

  • 5 from Chiang Mai to Vientiane starting from 09:00 Chiang Mai Town Hotel Transfer until 14:30 At Ratchadamnoen Chaing Mai

Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from Chiang Mai to Vientiane.

What mode of transportation is the best one for my route?

Bus

Travelling from Chiang Mai to Vientiane overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.

Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.

They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.

Companies operating bus routes between Chiang Mai and Vientiane

Naluang, Orsuksa Tour, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล)

Taxi

Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.

Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.

Companies offering charters between Chiang Mai and Vientiane

Easyride Services, Mekong Transfer

Van

Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between Chiang Mai and Vientiane, too.

Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.

Companies operating vans between Chiang Mai and Vientiane

Mekong Transfer, Terminal Green Pai

What is the most popular transport to get from Chiang Mai to Vientiane?

There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with Bus remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 92% opted for a bus
  • 3% chosen flight+Bus
  • 2% chosen flight
  • 1% Other