The express bus from Chiang Mai to Vientiane is a convenient and affordable way to travel from northern Thailand directly to the capital of Laos. The bus departs from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal (Terminal 3) and arrives at Morning Market (Talat Sao) in Vientiane the following morning, with a vehicle change at the Nong Khai border crossing.

What's Included

• Express bus ticket from Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Laos
• Instant e-ticket confirmation
• Luggage assistance during change of transport by operator's staff

Not Included

• 🚼 Tuk-tuk fare: 100 THB (paid directly at border)
• 🌉 Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge fee: 35 THB (paid directly at border)

Departure Schedule

Daily departure from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, Terminal 3:

• Departure: 19:00 (7:00 PM)
• Vehicle change at: Nong Khai border crossing
• Estimated Arrival: ~11:00 the following morning at Morning Market, Vientiane

Check-in Point

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, Terminal 3 (อาเขต 3), Chiang Mai. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure with your ticket and passport.

Arrival Point

Morning Market (Talat Sao), Vientiane — located in the heart of Vientiane, within easy reach of hotels and guesthouses across the city.

Important Information

• 📍 Check in at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, Terminal 3 at least 30 minutes before departure
• 📵 Please bring your ticket and passport for check-in
• 🚌 Passengers will change vehicles at Nong Khai border crossing before continuing to Vientiane
• 🧳 Luggage allowance: 20 kg per person (1 large bag + 1 small bag not exceeding 28 inches)
• Operator's staff will assist with luggage during change of transport
• 💰 Not included: Tuk-tuk fare of 100 THB and Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge fee of 35 THB — both paid directly by the customer at the border
• Please ensure your passport is valid and you have the correct Laos visa or e-visa before travel
• The bus crosses into Laos via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge at Nong Khai — please have your travel documents ready
• Arrival times may be affected by traffic or border crossing delays

Luggage Policy

• 20 kg per person allowed (1 large bag + 1 small bag not exceeding 28 inches)
• Please contact us via WhatsApp if you have oversized luggage

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get from Chiang Mai to Vientiane by bus?

The express bus departs from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal (Terminal 3) at 19:00. Passengers change vehicles at Nong Khai border crossing before continuing to Vientiane, arriving at Morning Market (Talat Sao) at approximately 11:00 AM the following day.

Do I need a visa to enter Laos?

Most nationalities can obtain a Laos visa on arrival or an e-visa. Please check the current visa requirements for your nationality before travel. Zest Go does not arrange visas.

Where is the check-in point in Chiang Mai?

The check-in point is at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, Terminal 3 (อาเขต 3). Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the 19:00 departure with your ticket and passport.

Where does the bus arrive in Vientiane?

The bus arrives at Morning Market (Talat Sao) in Vientiane, centrally located and easily accessible to most hotels and guesthouses in the city.

Do passengers need to change vehicles?

Yes. Passengers change vehicles at Nong Khai border crossing. Operator's staff will assist with luggage during the transfer.

Are there any extra fees at the border?

Yes. Customers are required to pay a tuk-tuk fare of 100 THB and a Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge fee of 35 THB directly at the border. These are not included in the ticket price.

How long is the journey from Chiang Mai to Vientiane?

The total journey takes approximately 16 hours, including the vehicle change and border crossing at Nong Khai. Actual arrival time may vary depending on traffic and border wait times.