A beautiful view from within central Luang Prabang-mobile

How to get from
Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang Trip Overview

Distance89 km (55.6 miles)
Price$9
Ride Duration3h
Earliest Departure02:00
Latest Departure04:00

Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.

Travel Schedule Options from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang



























































































A beautiful view from within central Luang Prabang

About the ride from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Raw and untouched, Nong Khiaw is a great destination for its natural attractions and offbeat, rural appeal. 

Luang Prabang, on the other hand, is vibrant yet unhurried. Its charm lies in its unique mix of history, culture, nature, and spirituality.

The distance from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang is about 140 km (87 miles), making it a relatively easy trip.

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. It’s the most popular tourist destination in Laos and for good reason. The city moves you with its exquisitely decorated wats (temples) and spiritual vibe. Everyone who travels here adores it.

Catch the most enthralling sights of the city and witness a magical sunset atop Mount Phousi. 

Wat Manorom, Wat Xieng Thong, and Wat Mai are incredibly beautiful and worth visiting. 

The Alms Giving Ceremony is a long-standing and deeply moving ritual where Buddhist monks gather to collect their alms for the day. If you attend, make sure you maintain your distance and respect the monks and locals participating in it. 

A boat ride down the expansive Mekong is a must for the chance to view the city from the water. 

Across the river sits the Wat Chompet, another stunning temple with unforgettable views of the city.

Nature lovers will be captivated by the Kuang Si Waterfalls, a three-tiered waterfall with the most striking blue-green waters. Take a dip in one of the plunge pools at the base. It’s heavenly!

Once the sun goes down, head to the night market to pick up knick-knacks and souvenirs. Then, to savor the best street food, work up an appetite and make your way to Buffet Street, where you’ll find something for every palate—from seafood to vegetarian. 

If you’re wondering, “How do I get from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang,” bus, minivan, and private taxis are your three options.

The most cost-effective option is to travel by bus. 

Minivans are also a very economical option and might even be more comfortable. And if you are traveling with a group, you can book a private one.

You could also hire a private taxi, though it’s the most expensive option. However, bus and minivan departures are limited, so if you’re looking for flexibility in your travel plans, taking a cab might be the best choice.

The boat service from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang is no longer available. 

 

What to see when traveling from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Calming and pleasant scenery makes the ride easy on the eyes. Sit by the window and take in Laos’ charming countryside scenes—lush landscapes, thriving farms, and locals going about their day-to-day lives. 

 

How to get from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Taking a bus 

With bus ticket prices starting from US$9 per person, this is one of the best ways to get from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang, especially for backpackers and budget travelers.

There are at least two departures every day—both in the morning. 

The air-conditioned buses are fitted with comfortable, cushioned seats. Unfortunately, there are no washrooms on the buses. However, the driver makes stops along the way for restroom breaks. 

Buses depart from the Nong Khiaw Minivan Station and end at the Northern or Southern Bus Station in Luang Prabang. The Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang bus takes about four hours. 

One of the popular bus operators on this route is Naga Express Travel.

 

Taking a minivan 

Another popular option for transport from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang is by minivan. With tickets starting at US$10 and a four-hour travel time, it makes sense. 

The air-conditioned minivans leave from the Nong Khiaw bus stop at 1:30 pm. 

The vehicles are fitted with comfortable seats, and the driver will stop along the way if you want food or a restroom break.

Most minivans will drop you off at the Southern Terminal in Luang Prabang.

The luggage allowance is typically one bag weighing up to 20 kg. 

Some of the well-known minivan operators on this route are Naluang, Naga Express Travel, and Laos Group Tour. 

Non-air-conditioned minivans are also available at the Nong Khiaw Minivan Station. These, generally, have morning departures and, expectedly, are priced lower than the air-conditioned rides. But with a four-hour drive, air-conditioning might be an added bonus.

You can also rent a private minivan if you are traveling as part of a bigger group. 

 

Taking a taxi 

With a travel time of three hours, this is the fastest way to cover the Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang distance. 

Hiring a taxi is a good option for those looking for flexibility and comfort. You can choose your departure time, plus you’ll get hotel pick up and drop off, more legroom, and luggage space. 

A standard-sized car is ideal for one to two passengers, while SUVs are more suited for families.

Depending on the operator and size of the car, the cost could range anywhere from US$120 to US$160.

Taxis are the best way to travel from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang for families and travelers who don’t mind paying extra for privacy. 

Companies Operating from Nong Khiaw to Luang Prabang

Average time

3h

Average price

$9

(76)

Popular stations and stops in Nong Khiaw and Luang Prabang

Departure stations in Nong Khiaw

Nong Khiaw Minivan Station

Arrival stations in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang Northern Bus Station

Laos Group, Luang Prabang

Southern Bus Terminal

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