Traveling from Hanoi, Vietnam to Luang Prabang, Laos offers an exciting journey between two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating cities. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an adventure, there are multiple ways to make this trip. Let’s explore the options available for your journey from Hanoi to Luang Prabang with Indochina Voyages!
How many ways to get from Hanoi to Luang Prabang?
The distance between Hanoi and Luang Prabang is approximately 1000 km, a journey that can be undertaken in 3 main ways. Each mode of transportation offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and cultures that lie between these two iconic cities. Let’s explore the three main options available to travelers:
Flights from Hanoi to Luang Prabang Laos
- Time: 1 hour fly
- Price: Around $120 USD/per person for one way flight
By far, traveling by air is the easiest and fastest way to get from Hanoi to Luang Prabang, especially when crossing international borders. Departing from Hanoi, you’ll be flying out of Noi Bai International Airport, located about 30 km from the city center. Plan for a 30-60 minute journey to the airport, depending on your starting location. You can choose several transportation options to reach Noi Bai, such as:
Taxi: 10-12 USD for a 4-seater car
Public buses: Available from every urban district (Bus No. 7, 17, 90, 109 & 86)
- Regular bus fare: 9,000 VND (0.5 USD)
- Express bus (No. 86) fare: 35,000 VND (1.5 USD)
Vietnam Airlines shuttle bus: 40,000 VND (2 USD) from their head office at No. 1, Quang Trung Street
Upon arrival in Laos, you’ll land at Luang Prabang International Airport, conveniently situated just 4 km from the city center. Getting to your accommodation is straightforward, with taxis and tuk-tuks readily available outside the terminal. Expect to pay between 10-15 USD for the short ride into the city by tuk-tuk or taxi, depending on your specific destination and negotiation skills.
Although flying is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between Hanoi and Luang Prabang, you should book your flight early to get better deals ensure availability, and allow extra time for airport transfers, check-in, and security procedures.
Sleeper Bus – The cheapest way
- Time: 24-30 hours
- Price: About $50/person
Traveling by bus is the most economical option and offers a chance to see the countryside with the journey covers about 1000 km. There are 2 popular companies offering this route HTX Van Tai and The Sinh Tourist.
Sleeper buses typically depart from Nuoc Ngam Bus Station in Hanoi around 6 PM, arriving in Luang Prabang approximately 24-30 hours later. The journey follows a route through Tam Diep Town, Vinh City, and Dien Chau before reaching the Nam Can Border in Nghe An Province. Buses usually arrive at the border around 5:00 AM, but passengers must wait until it opens at 7:00 AM to cross the border. Laos visas are available on arrival.
After crossing, the bus continues through Muong Kham before reaching Luang Prabang Bus Station. Be prepared for potential delays and bring snacks and water for the long journey. It’s advisable to have some US dollars on hand for the visa process and to be patient during the border crossing, as it can be time-consuming. Remember to keep your passport and any necessary documents easily accessible.
Private car with Guide tours
- Time: Flexible
- Price: Depend on your budget
For those seeking comfort and a chance to explore the region, guided tours with a private car offer a flexible and enriching experience. These tours typically include visits to picturesque mountainous areas like Sapa or Mai Chau, crossing the Tay Trang border at Dien Bien Province, and potentially stopping at the scenic town of Nong Kiaw in Laos before reaching Luang Prabang.
With a private car, guide, and flexible itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to explore local villages and enjoy breathtaking mountain passes. While this option provides a more comfortable journey and the chance to discover off-the-beaten-path locations with a knowledgeable guide, it is generally more expensive and time-consuming than bus or flight options.
To make the most of this experience, it’s recommended to contact a reputable travel agency like Indochina Voyages for customized tour options and discuss your interests and preferences to tailor the journey to your liking. We also provide the complete private car from Hanoi to Luang Prabang and also your customizing tour based on your interest.
Is it worth going to Luang Prabang?
Absolutely! Luang Prabang is widely considered one of the most charming and culturally rich cities in Southeast Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of well-preserved traditional architecture, rich cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty.
The town’s laid-back atmosphere provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of larger Southeast Asian cities, while still offering plenty to see and do. From witnessing the daily alms-giving ceremony to exploring ornate temples and indulging in a fusion of Lao and French cuisine, Luang Prabang provides an authentic and memorable experience for travelers.
So, what can you expect in Luang Prabang?
- Beautifully preserved traditional Lao and colonial architecture
- Numerous Buddhist temples, including the iconic Wat Xieng Thong
- Daily alms-giving ceremony at dawn
- Stunning natural surroundings, including the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers
- Nearby Kuang Si Waterfalls and Pak Ou Caves
- Vibrant night market showcasing local crafts and street food
- Traditional textile production, especially silk weaving
The journey from Hanoi to Luang Prabang is more than just a trip between two cities – it’s a passage between two distinct worlds within Southeast Asia. Whether you choose the swift efficiency of a flight, the economical adventure of a sleeper bus, or the immersive experience of a guided tour, each mode of travel offers its own unique perspective on this fascinating region.
Remember that travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Whichever method you choose, approach your trip with an open mind and a spirit of adventure. The path from Hanoi to Luang Prabang is not just a physical route, but a journey through the heart of Southeast Asia – one that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of this captivating part of the world.
Safe travels, and may your journey from Hanoi to Luang Prabang be the adventure of a lifetime!
From Indochina Voyages Teams
