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Overview | Bus | Flight | Where to Stay
How To Get From Pakse to Luang Prabang?
Pakse is a riverside town in southern Laos. Its name means mouth of the river as it is situated at the confluence of Mekong and Xe Don. There is not much to do in the city other than admire a few temples, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and eat delicious street food.
UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang is the former capital of Laos. This ancient city sits at the junction of Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Whether you are interested in connecting with nature, eating tasty food, seeing beautiful temples, or learning more about local culture, Luang Prabang has it all for you.
The easiest way to travel the 965km journey from Pakse to Luang Prabang is by taking a flight. It takes less than 2 hours but tickets cost at least $95. Another option is to travel by bus. It is cheaper than a flight ($49) but requires almost one day of travel.
| Transport mode | Duration | Costs | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 24 hours | $49 | Check bus tickets |
| Flight | 1h 40min | $95 | Check flights |
View itinerary from Pakse to Luang Prabang
Pakse to Luang Prabang by Bus
Duration: 24 hours
Costs: $49
The bus trip from Pakse to Luang Prabang takes almost a full day. King of Bus is the only bus company that provides a direct trip. Their VIP sleeper bus departs Pakse at 19:00 and arrives in Luang Prabang at around 16:30 the following day. However, a direct trip is currently not available. Instead, you’ll have to book a combined bus ticket from Champasak Bus and King of Bus.
Another option is to book a bus from Pakse to Vientiane and from there, you’ll catch another bus to Luang Prabang. This option gives you some time to rest and explore the capital city of Laos.
See here the bus schedules:
| Bus company | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| King of Bus (not available) | 19:00-16:30 | 21h 30m | $50 |
| Champasak Bus + King of Bus (requires transfer) | 19:00-19:00 | 24h | $49 |
Champasak Bus and King of Bus
- Champasak Bus departs from Green Paradise Travel Agency Office in the city center, near the Vietnam Consulate at 19:00 and arrives at Vientiane South Bus station at 06:30 the next day
- King of Bus departs from Vientiane Phanthavong Tour Office at 08:00 and arrives at Luang Prabang airport, about 4 km from the city center at 19:00
King of Bus is one of the most popular transport companies in Laos.
Pakse to Luang Prabang by Flight
Duration: 1h 40min
Costs: $95
Flying from Pakse to Luang Prabang saves a lot of time compared to taking the bus. It will cost you a bit more, but at least you won’t be completely exhausted when you reach your destination.
The main operator for this route is Lao Airlines. Their one-way tickets start at $95, and they operate one direct flight per day. If this one-way flight is fully booked, you’ll have to book one that has a stopover at Vientiane.
The direct flight departs Pakse International Airport at 16:20 and arrives in Luang Prabang around 18:00. You can use the button below to check the latest schedules and to book your flight.
My favourite places to stay in Luang Prabang
Oudomphong Guesthouse
Located just 600 meters from the amazing Night Market, this guesthouse is in the perfect spot. On-site you will find an ATM, guest terrace, shared lounge, and tour desk. Within walking distance are countless sights, restaurants, bars, and amenities. All rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning and a desk. The rooms are spacious and the beds are comfortable. A delicious breakfast is included with your stay.
- Great location
- Walking distance to many sights
- Breakfast included
- Clean and comfortable rooms
Private rooms start at $20 per night
Manichan Guesthouse
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 $25 per night
Villa Boua Thong Hotel
Enjoy the luxury of this hotel, centrally located in Luang Prabang. This hotel provides a bar, shared lounge, garden area, and room service. You have a choice of a la carte or continental breakfasty with your stay. There is a currency exchange on location for your convenience and a shared kitchen for the guests to utilize. Within walking distance to many sights.
- Great location
- Bar and lounge on-site
- Breakfast included
- Walking distance to sights
Private rooms start at $36 per night