How to Get From Vang Vieng to Pakse
Flight · Bus
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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 780 kilometre (485 miles) distance from Vang Vieng to Pakse. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to get there — whether you want to travel on a budget, reach Pakse as fast as possible, or enjoy the ride in comfort. We base our information on verified schedules, ticket prices, and on-the-ground insights from recent travellers.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Vang Vieng to Pakse?
There are two ways to travel the 780 km distance from Vang Vieng to Pakse. You can choose between the flight and bus.
The journey takes between 2h 40m–16h and the quickest way is by flight (2h 40m). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 776,000 LAK ($36).
2h 40m - 4h 35m
2,391,000 LAK ($110)
16h - 23h 30m
776,000 LAK ($36)
Already in Pakse?
Onward from Pakse
Once you're in Pakse, here's where to next — 5 researched onward routes to pick from.
Vang Vieng to Pakse by Flight
If you're looking for speed and comfort, it's best to take a flight from Vang Vieng to Pakse.
Combined fares are a bit expensive at about 2,391,000 LAK ($110), but you can complete the journey in just 2h 40m - 4h 35m.
Keep in mind that Vang Vieng doesn't have its own airport, so this will not be a direct flight. You will first take a train from Vang Vieng to the nearest airport in Vientiane. From the country's capital, you can take a short flight to Pakse.
Step 1: Train from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
The fastest way to get from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is by train, which takes just about an hour.
Train ticket prices start from 326,000 LAK ($15) when you buy in advance through BookAway. Note that it's almost impossible to buy train tickets on the same day because they sell out fast.
How to get to Vang Vieng Railway Station
Vang Vieng Railway Station is about 4 km away from the town centre. The easiest way to get there is by tuk-tuk, for around 43,000 LAK ($2.00).
The tuk-tuk ride takes about 10 minutes.
We recommend arriving at the station at least 30 minutes before your train's departure, to allow time for security checks.
Ready to book your train?
Alternative: Bus or Minivan from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Another option to reach Vientiane from Vang Vieng is to take a bus or a minivan. These take longer, around 3-4 hours, and are not as comfortable as trains. But they're a bit cheaper with fares from 196,000 LAK ($9.00). For more details, visit our guide for Vang Vieng to Vientiane.Step 2: Flight from Vientiane to Pakse
Lao Airlines offers daily flights from Vientiane to Pakse. Prices for a one-way plane ticket start at 1,913,000 LAK ($88). The flight takes about 1 hour.
Lao Skyway is another airline you can check out. It used to offer cheaper rates. But the last time we checked (March 2026), its website was not available for booking.
How to get from Vientiane Railway Station to Vientiane Airport
Flights from Vientiane to Pakse depart from Wattay International Airport. The easiest way to get here from Vientiane Railway Station is by taxi. Drivers at the train station often try to overcharge, so it's best to hail one through local apps like Loca and InDrive.
Taxi fares start from 150,000 LAK ($6.90), and the ride takes about 50 minutes.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Vang Vieng to Pakse by Bus
Travelling by bus from Vang Vieng to Pakse takes some time, with journeys lasting around 16h - 23h 30m. It’s divided into 2 parts: a 2.5-hour bus or minivan ride to Vientiane and then 13-14 hours of bus ride to Pakse.
The second leg of the journey runs overnight, giving you the chance to get some sleep and arrive at your destination feeling (somewhat) refreshed.
Ticket prices start from 776,000 LAK ($36), making the bus the cheapest way to travel this route.
All buses heading to Pakse from Vang Vieng stop in Vientiane. We recommend booking a direct ticket, which makes the trip much easier. Your chosen bus company handles the transfer in Vientiane, so you don’t have to stress about changing vehicles or finding your next ride.
That said, keep in mind that part of the journey — especially from Vang Vieng to Vientiane — may be done by minivan instead of a bus.
Sleeper buses from Vang Vieng to Pakse
Most buses on this route are sleeper buses. Instead of regular seats, you’ll get flatbeds designed for two people.
If you’re travelling solo, you’ll need to book both spots to have the bed to yourself. Otherwise, you’ll likely share the space with another passenger.
Some companies offering direct bus tickets from Vang Vieng to Pakse include Chanthachone Transportation, Green Paradise Travel, Family Service and Sarah Transport Laos.
Bus schedule from Vang Vieng to Pakse
Booking Tip
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Vang Vieng to Pakse. 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!
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance from Vang Vieng to Pakse is 780 km.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Pakse?
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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About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
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.
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
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