For decades, Laos has been one of the more adventurous (read: challenging) countries to explore in Southeast Asia. So, when news broke that the Laos-China Railway was being built, both travellers and locals had reason to celebrate.
Officially opening in 2021, this high-speed rail network has transformed travel across the country, making it faster and more convenient than ever. If you’re planning to ride the rails on your next trip, you’re in the right place. I’ve already done it—so you don’t have to figure it out alone!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the route to booking tickets and what to expect along the way.
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Laos China Railway (LCR) Guide for Travellers
What is the Laos China Railway?
The Laos China Railway (LCR), also known as the Boten-Vientiane Railway, connects China with Laos. This high-speed railway is the first of its kind in Laos and marks a renewed focus on modernising the country’s antiquated travel infrastructure.
The new railway has made travel across Laos significantly easier and more convenient, a huge relief for locals. The international railway connection has also encouraged more tourism to the country–– it takes just 10 hours to travel from Kunming in China to Laos’ capital Vientiane onboard.
Why Take the Train in Laos?
Travel infrastructure in Laos has long been lacking. Getting from A to B usually involves packing into a small minibus and getting thrown about as you traverse the bumpy roads cross country. Journeys tend to be long, cramped and uncomfortable. However, the introduction of China Laos Railway has transformed travel in the country. The train offers a far more convenient, clean and safe way to get around. Say goodbye to sweaty minivans––comfort has arrived!
Route and Destinations
There are ten Lao destinations along the route from Kunming to Vientiane, but the most popular stops are Boten (close to the border), Muang Xai in Oudomxay, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Na Teuy near Luang Namtha and the capital Vientiane.
Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are major tourist hotspots, drawing large numbers of travellers each year. Vientiane boasts the country’s best transport connections, making it a near certainty on most Laos itineraries. Expect these sections of the route to be very busy.
Only some of the trains which service this route are fast trains. Inter-country travel will usually take place on an ordinary train whereas those with international connections will be onboard high-speed trains. For more information and up-to-date timetables, check the Laos China Railway’s official Facebook page.
Laos China Railway Map
How to Buy Tickets for the Laos China Railway
Buying tickets for the Laos China Railway can be a little confusing, even if you’re just planning to embark on a short section of the route. Lots of information online tells passengers they must book tickets in advance or risk missing out.
Based on my experience, this is a lie designed to panic you into purchasing a ticket from an agency or online ticketing site (both of which take a hefty commission on top of the ticket price).
The most popular sections of the LCR for travellers are the following:
- Luang Prabang-Vang Vieng
- Luang Prabang-Vientiane
- Vang Vieng-Vientiane
While there is no denying that these routes are popular with travellers looking to avoid long, bumpy bus journeys, you should not panic about the train tickets selling out way in advance.
Good to Know! 💡
You are only able to purchase train tickets a maximum of three days in advance. If you are planning to travel during a weekend or public holiday, make sure you keep your plans flexible in case tickets sell out.
There are three different ways to purchase tickets for the LCR and I’ve broken them down below:
LCR App
This is the best way to buy tickets for the Laos China Railway. Search for the ‘LCR Ticket’ in your app store and download it. You will need either an email address or a Lao, Chinese or Thai SIM card to be able to register for an account. We recommend picking up a local SIM when you arrive in the country. Not only do they offer the best value if you want to stay connected but you can also use the number.
All of the trains which run are available to book using the app. There will be a mix of standard trains (travelling up to 120kmph) and high-speed trains (travelling up to 160kmph). Once you have selected your route, you can book through the app and pay using your credit/debit card. Bear in mind that there will be a small booking fee when you reserve via the app.
There are a few ways to pay, including Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, Visa and BCEL. You’ll get confirmation of your booking with a QR code via the app or SMS. Ensure you keep a copy of this, you’ll need it to get into the station.
At the Train Station or an Official LCR Office
It is also possible to buy your tickets at the station directly. However, as all of the stations are located far out of town, it is not entirely practical to do this ahead of time. If you want to book tickets on the day, this is an option, however, make sure you leave early enough as the queues can get quite long.
There are now official LCR offices in Vientiane and Luang Prabang where you can also book tickets. Customers are limited to two tickets each and are required to pay in cash. You’ll need your passport to reserve––don’t forget it!
Online Ticketing Sites and Travel Agencies
For independent travellers, the idea of booking via an online ticketing site or travel agency may appeal. 12go.asia is a popular option which many travellers use. While reserving tickets this way comes with a significant markup in terms of price, it may be a good option if you want someone else to deal with the admin.
When you reserve through a third party, they will be in charge of obtaining the ticket on your behalf. You will need to send them your passport details in advance so they can make the reservation. Tickets will usually be dropped off at your accommodation the night before you are due to travel or sent via WhatsApp or email.
Bear in mind that no matter how far in advance you book, your tickets are not immediately guaranteed. Even the travel agencies and ticketing sites can only purchase three days before departure date.
ID Required 🪪
All tickets for the China Laos Railway are specific to that individual, which is why you have to provide ID when buying them. This applies even if you are travelling domestically.
What to Expect from Taking the Train in Laos
Cabin Classes
There are a few different cabin classes onboard the China Laos Railway. These are: first class, business class and second class. The latter is the most economical way to travel and is perfect for the most popular short journeys. If you are on board for longer, it is possible to book a sleeper cabin.
Security
When the Laos China Railway first started to accept passengers, it was very strict on what was allowed to be carried on the trains. This has caused a lot of confusion among travellers as to what you are actually allowed to take onboard.
When you enter the train station, you will be required to go through security. The set-up is very similar to what you’d find in an airport, with security guards and bag scanners. With the exception of liquids, if you wouldn’t take it on a plane, don’t try to get in on the train.
“After hearing lots of rumours about harsh security protocols getting on the train, I was a little nervous but I needn’t have worried. My bags went through the scanner with no problem and I was given a pat down by a friendly security guard. I was shocked by how quick and efficient the process was!” – Sheree, Editor at South East Asia Backpacker
Amenities
Both the stations and the trains themselves provide good amenities for passengers. At the stations, you’ll find a range offood and drink options, shops and toilets. As always in Laos, you should bring your own toilet paper!
Onboard the train, there are toilets (western and local), charging outlets for each chair and a drop-down table. A concessions trolly comes around selling drinks and snacks. Do bear in mind that there is nowhere to buy meals onboard so if you’re doing a long journey, you’ll need to prepare your own.
Practical Tips for Travelling on the China Laos Railway
- Arrive at least 1 hour before your departure and 1.5 hours before if you need to pick up tickets
- Getting to the station will take around 45 minutes from the centre of Vientiane and around 30 minutes from Luang Prabang
- Do not travel with any switchblades, vapes or aerosols – vapes are illegal in Laos and you could be detained
- If you do have something like a Swiss army knife, see if your accommodation is willing to keep hold of it, with you returning to pick it up at a later date
- Your tickets will be checked at several points so have them ready for the duration of your journey
- There is a 20 kg luggage limit per passenger on the express train (though we didn’t see any staff check this)
- On the slow train, you are permitted to take more baggage with you – check your ticket
- The trains all have air-conditioning so it can get a little chilly – wear layers or keep a jumper in your bag
- There is a loading area for bulky luggage at the end of each train carriage
- Smaller baggage should go on the luggage rack but make sure it is secure
- Bring entertainment like an e-reader – the route goes through a lot of tunnels meaning you don’t always get a good view
- Download any TV shows prior to boarding, the signal can be patchy along the route (even with a Lao SIM) and there is no WiFi
- Bring headphones – not everyone will
- Make sure you know the price of a transfer from the train station to your destination to avoid getting ripped off by taxis – you can always use a Lao ride-hailing app
The Future of the China Lao Railway
Although a roaring success in its own right, the Laos China Railway is actually a smaller part of a larger project which aims to link Singapore with China, passing through Malaysia, Thailand and Laos on the way.
The Bangkok-Nong Khai section of the Thailand route is already underway and the project is expected to be operational by 2030. After passengers depart in Nong Khai, they will be able to pick up the Lao-China link in Vientiane.
Even though the entire line (sometimes referred to as the Pan Asia railway network) is still a work in progress, the railway is not just reshaping travel—it’s stitching together nations and economies, laying the groundwork for a new Southeast Asia.
Have you travelled by train in Laos yet? Share your experience on the LCR below!
Sheree Hooker | Editor @ South East Asia Backpacker + Winging The World
Sheree is the awkward British wanderluster behind Winging The World, a blog designed to show that even the most useless of us can travel. Follow Sheree’s adventures as she blunders around the globe, falling into squat toilets, getting into cars with machete men and running away from angry peacocks. In recent years, Sheree has also taken on the role of editor at South East Asia Backpacker.
