What to expect when visiting Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is the former royal capital of Laos. A beautiful fusion of traditional Lao architecture and colonial design, this ancient city sits at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Luang Prabang lifts up your spirits with its 33 Buddhist temples and awakens your senses with its picturesque landscape.
Backdropped by mountains, adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Luang Prabang. You’ll find turquoise waterfalls, trekking trips and biking trails on the outskirts of town. Our favourite part? The friendly atmosphere and slow life that it was somehow able to maintain despite the growing number of tourists.
2 ways to get from Luang Prabang Airport
There are 2 ways to travel the distance of 4 kilometers (2 miles) from Luang Prabang Airport by Taxi (30 minutes) and Tuktuk (15 minutes). The journey duration ranges between 15 to 30 minutes and the quickest way is by tuktuk. The lowest priced tickets start from $3 (66,000 LAK) for the tuktuk.Where to stay in Luang Prabang?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Luang Prabang at the bottom of this page.
Luang Prabang Airport by Tuktuk
Taking the tuk-tuk provides travellers with a cheaper option. However, you cannot find tuk-tuks inside the airport premises. You have to go outside the gates of Luang Prabang Airport.
This is a good option for travellers on a budget but keep in mind that Laotian tuk-tuks don’t provide much legroom. Expect to pay around $3 (66,000 LAK) for a tuk-tuk. The rate is pretty standard so if you’re going from the city centre to Luang Prabang Airport, expect to pay the same.
If drivers mention a higher rate, you can negotiate accordingly.
Luang Prabang Airport by Taxi
Located just 4 km from the city centre, Luang Prabang Airport offers few domestic and international flights.
You can find the taxi counters near the exits of the arrival hall. Taxis can get you to your hotel or the city centre for a fixed fare of $7 (154,000 LAK). The fixed fare means you don’t need to worry about negotiating a good price.
Some hotels often provide hotel shuttle service but expect to pay the same fixed fare of $7 (154,000 LAK). If your hotel offers this, you’ll need to pre-arrange this with the hotel.
To get to Luang Prabang Airport, you can hail a taxi or ask your hotel to arrange one. The same $7 (154,000 LAK) fare still applies. If taxis try to charge you more, don’t give in too easily.
But if you prefer to arrange your private transport, you can book through BookAway. Rates start from $14.60 (321,000 LAK) for a 2-seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s just about $7.30 (160,000 LAK) per person.
Private transport from Luang Prabang Airport to city centre
Private transport from city centre to Luang Prabang Airport
Best places to stay in Luang Prabang
Manichan Guesthouse - Mid Range
The Manichan Guesthouse is the perfect location, just a 5-minute walk from the Night Market, National Museum and plenty of other sights. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean and come with your choice of fan or air conditioning. A delicious breakfast is included daily with your stay and there is a restaurant on location for your convenience.
- Ideal location
- Walking distance to many sights
- Breakfast included
- Restaurant on-site
Private rooms start at $30 per night
Sakaodeuan Hotel & Travel - Treating Yourself
Sakaodeuan Hotel located within the Old Town of Luang Prabang is in an ideal location to explore some of the city’s best sights. You’re less than 1km away from both Mount Phousy and the Night Market.
The rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean. One of the best things about this hotel are the staff who are there to help you with anything. And the complimentary breakfast is a highlight of the stay. It’s delicious!
- Located in the Old Town
- Spacious and comfortable rooms
- Amazing staff
- Delicious free breakfast
Double rooms start from $75 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Luang Prabang Airport
What is the distance from Luang Prabang Airport?
The distance from Luang Prabang Airport is 4 kilometers (2 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Luang Prabang Airport?
The fastest way to get from Luang Prabang Airport is by tuktuk and takes 15 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang Airport?
The cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang Airport is by tuktuk with ticket costs starting from $3 (66,000 LAK).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Luang Prabang Airport. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Routes from Luang Prabang
Most popular routes in Laos
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Are the rates mentioned for Taxi and Tuk Tuk per passenger or entire cab/tuk-tuk?
Hi Sachin! The rates are for an entire cab/tuk-tuk. It’s only a 15 min ride at the end:).