Here’s a comprehensive, organized guide to everything about the Laos–China Railway—from routes and schedules to ticketing, costs, luggage rules, and more. All info is current as of mid-2025.
Page Contents
Overview: Laos–China Railway (Boten–Vientiane Line)
- The Boten–Vientiane section of the Laos–China Railway opened officially on December 3, 2021
- It spans approximately 422?km, linking Vientiane (south) to Boten (on the Chinese border), with key stations like Vang?Vieng and Luang?Prabang
- Express trains reach speeds up to 160?km/h; local/freight run around 120?km/h
- Daily ridership is around 7,000–10,000 passengers in early 2023
Ticket Booking: How & When
Booking Windows
- Domestic Laos tickets: available up to 3 days in advance in Laos time, typically open early morning
- International tickets (China ? Laos): available up to 14 days in advance via Chinese systems; Laos?sale is limited to domestic booking windows
Purchasing Methods (Domestic)
- LCR Ticket App (Laotian SIM required; accepts Visa, UnionPay; booking fee ~10,000–20,000 kip per ticket): puts QR code in app plus official collection required
- At train stations or city ticket offices (each person limited to two tickets; extra 20,000 kip fee; only Lao ID or passport accepted; cash only)
- Via travel agencies or hotel/operators (e.g. 12Go, Baolau, local agent) – you pay an agency surcharge (US?$1 to $10 or more) but get confirmation via email/WhatsApp and e?ticket or physical ticket delivery. I booked through https://laostrainticket.com/
Tips
- Book at least 24 to 72 hours in advance, especially for peak routes like Luang Prabang–Vientiane, where tickets sell out fast
- Foreigners cannot buy directly at counter without ID; use travel agents or app with Lao number
- Some regional operators (e.g. 12Go) deliver tickets via email or QR codes, sometimes collect at nearby office/restaurants.
Security & Luggage Rules
- Stations and trains have airport-style security screening. You must show ticket and passport before entry; luggage scanned.
- Prohibited items include:
- Aerosols, sprays, liquids >100?ml, gels (LAGs)
- Sharp objects, weapons, explosives, strong?odor food, animals (incl. dead)
- Water bottles allowed if you demonstrate you can drink them.
- Medications are generally fine; no vapes or strong sanitizer sprays.
- Carry-on bags are ideal; large suitcases must be stowed in outside racks near toilets, out of sight, near the carriage door
At the Station & Onboard Experience
- Arrive at least 60?minutes before departure due to security checks and platform access controls
- Station locations are typically 20–40?minutes from city centers (Vientiane ~17?km, Luang Prabang ~40?min) and shared minibuses/taxis cost ~20,000–50,000 kip depending on city
- Waiting halls have a few small shops, hot-water taps, toilets (often without tissue paper). Onboard snack carts may offer drinks/noodles, but limited options; bring your own food/water
- Ticket will be checked multiple times: on station entry, before boarding, and at exit—don’t discard it until after you leave station
- Inside the train:
- Second class: 3×2 seating layout with decent legroom; power outlets under seats.
- First class: 2×2, Business class: 1×2 for more comfort
- Toilets: squat or sit type, but rarely stocked with toilet paper.
- No Wi-Fi onboard.
Final Tips & Recommendations
- Book early: popular routes often sell out within 1–3 days of release.
- Avoid packing aerosols, liquids, sharp objects unless needed—security is strict.
- Carry snacks and tissues, particularly as station and train facilities may be limited.
- Use travel agencies or booking platforms like 12Go or Baolau if you don’t have a Lao SIM or want convenience.
- Allow time for station travel, especially in Luang Prabang or Vientiane.
- Don’t discard your ticket—it’s required until you fully exit the station at your destination.
- For China crossings, be ready to disembark with your luggage twice for immigration processing.