Riding the Laos High-Speed Train #2/10: What to Know Before Boarding the Laos Train - Stops at 5 Stations: Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Oudom, Sayabouly

Riding the Laos High-Speed Train #2/10: What to Know Before Boarding the Laos Train - Stops at 5 Stations: Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Oudom, Sayabouly

When it comes to traveling in Laos nowadays, one thing that mr.hotsia finds quite exciting is the “Laos High-Speed Train” which has just opened and connects the important route from Vientiane to Sayabouly, passing through famous tourist cities like Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Riding this train is not just ordinary travel; it is an experience that changes your perspective on traveling in Laos entirely.

Before boarding the Laos High-Speed Train, I want to share my feelings and essential information to prepare for the journey. Starting from the main station in Vientiane, which is the starting city of this railway line. Vientiane itself is the capital city full of simple charm. I especially enjoy walking along the Mekong River in the evening; the sunset reflecting on the water is a scene I want to keep in my heart forever. You can read my Vientiane travel story atTravel Vientianeto get a deeper understanding of this city

The Laos High-Speed Train stops at 5 main stations: Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Oudom, and Sayabouly. Each station has its own unique stories and highlights.

1. Vientiane – The Journey's Starting Point

The Vientiane train station is located not far from the old town filled with temples and cozy coffee shops, such as True Coffee where I often stop to rest after walking around the city under the hot sun all day (read more atTrue Coffee Vientiane). Before boarding the train, I recommend exploring the morning market and trying the famous authentic Vientiane Khao Piak (rice noodle soup), which I have written about in the articleKhao Piak Vientianeto truly experience the Lao way of life.

2. Vang Vieng – A Natural City Dreamed of by Tourists

The train stops at Vang Vieng, a station beloved by both Thai and international tourists. Vang Vieng is not only known for its beautiful nature, such as the clear Nam Song River and uniquely shaped limestone mountains, but also as a relaxing spot suitable for everyone—from adventure seekers who enjoy rafting to those who want to chill by the river or try activities like cycling around town or hiking. The morning mist on Phou Phieng Fa mountain, which I once reached by van from Luang Prabang, still lingers in my memory (read the full Vang Vieng review atVang Vieng Vientiane)

3. Luang Prabang – A World Heritage City Full of Cultural Charm

The third station is Luang Prabang, a city that many dream of visiting at least once. Traveling by high-speed train greatly reduces the travel time from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is full of beautiful temples, night markets with local products, and flavorful Lao cuisine. There is also a coffee shop called Jom that I often visit to relax comfortably. Anyone interested in Luang Prabang’s stories can read my related articles.

4. Oudom – The Gateway to Eastern Laos

Oudom station is an important stop for those who want to continue traveling to rural areas or small towns in eastern Laos. This town is still not very touristy, allowing visitors to closely experience the authentic Lao rural lifestyle.

5. Sayabouly – The Final Stop of the Railway Line

The last station is Sayabouly, a border town connecting Laos with China and Vietnam. Here, cultures from several countries blend, and it is an important economic hub in northern Laos. mr.hotsia recommends preparing well if you plan to continue traveling to neighboring countries from this point.

Tips and Real Experiences from mr.hotsia Before Boarding the Train

From my first experience riding the Laos High-Speed Train, I can say it’s important to prepare well regarding time and luggage because each station has its own significance and atmosphere. I booked tickets in advance and recommend choosing window seats to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides, especially when passing through Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.

The new train system here is comfortable and air-conditioned, perfect for Laos’s hot weather. There are also food and beverage services on board, so you don’t have to worry about meals during the journey.

If you have time to stop at the various stations, I recommend taking the opportunity to explore the towns and try local foods, such as Khao Piak and True Coffee in Vientiane, the clear waters of the Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, and the beautiful temples in Luang Prabang.

Summary

The Laos High-Speed Train is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the lifestyle and key tourist destinations of Laos in a short time, especially connecting cities likeVientianewhich has many charms to discover, and Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang, which are the destinations for many. Riding this train also lets you see the changing face of Laos’s cities in the new era up close, just as mr.hotsia has experienced firsthand.

For those planning a trip to Laos, don’t forget to prepare well and open your heart to new experiences from the Laos High-Speed Train. You will surely fall in love with this country just like me, mr.hotsia!

Watch the real experience review video of riding the Laos High-Speed Train atRiding the Laos High-Speed Train #2/10