In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 940 kilometre distance from Luang Prabang to Pakse. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 2 ways to get from Luang Prabang to Pakse. You can choose between the flight, bus and train. The most affordable option is by bus and train, starting from $43. The fastest route is by flight (2h 20m).
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2h 20m
$100
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9h 35m
$43
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Taking a flight is the most convenient way to get from Luang Prabang to Pakse. Travel time takes only 2h 20m, including airport transfers.
This saves you 9h 35m - 16h on the road, which is how long it takes to travel this route via a combined train and bus.
The only downside of flying is the cost. Combined prices start from $100, which is usually double the price of travelling from Luang Prabang to Pakse overland.
On a budget? Taking a combined train and bus is the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Pakse. Prices start from $43, which is half the cost of taking a flight.
This option takes almost a full day, though, with a travel time of 9h 35m - 16h. Keep in mind that this doesn’t include the transfer time in Vientiane, which can be anywhere from 45 minutes to several hours.
The good thing is, you book the train and bus separately, so you can pick the schedule that suits you best. If you prefer a slower pace, you can even spend a night in Vientiane before continuing your trip to Pakse.
Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to travel by combined train and bus to Pakse from Luang Prabang.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Pakse is a transport hub and gateway to southern Laos. Its strategic location, comfortable accommodations and tour offerings make it a convenient basecamp for travellers visiting the nearby Bolaven Plateau and Wat Phu.
Admittedly, there is not much to do in this riverside town. But if you're looking for a relaxing yet strategic place to take some time off, then your best choice in the south is Pakse. Walk around town, visit some temples, explore the local markets, or just sample traditional Lao dishes.
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Carbon Footprint
This 940 km journey produces approximately 84 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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