What should I check before boarding at Vientiane Station?
The Vientiane station on the Laos–China Railway is separate from Vientiane's Khamsavath Station, which serves the Thailand–Laos railway. For journeys towards Vang Vieng or Luang Prabang, check that you are using the Laos–China Railway station. Transfers between the two railways and to the city centre must be arranged separately. Before travelling, copy the full station name from your booking and check its map location, entrance, train service and boarding document.
Full station name and common mix-ups
- Station name
- Vientiane Station
- English or local name
- Vientiane Railway Station
- City
- Vientiane, Laos
- Main rail directions
- Domestic routes in Laos and cross-border services on the Laos–China Railway.
The Vientiane station on the Laos–China Railway is separate from Vientiane's Khamsavath Station, which serves the Thailand–Laos railway. For journeys towards Vang Vieng or Luang Prabang, check that you are using the Laos–China Railway station. Transfers between the two railways and to the city centre must be arranged separately.
Planning transport to the station
You will still need ground transport between the station and the main city or accommodation areas. Arrange a vehicle in advance and allow time for security screening.
Use maps to plan your journey, but confirm your departure station using the full name and address in your booking and the operator's notices.
General steps after arrival at the station
Prepare your identification and boarding document as instructed in your booking. Complete any required ticket collection, identity checks and security screening before waiting for the train. Cross-border journeys also require immigration procedures.
- Check your booking status and complete boarding document.
- If ticket collection is required, first find the counter or machine specified in your booking instructions.
- Complete any required identity checks, security screening or other station entry procedures.
- Find the correct gate and platform using your train service, direction, carriage and departure time.
Routes serving Vientiane Station
Frequently asked questions
The Vientiane station on the Laos–China Railway is separate from Vientiane's Khamsavath Station, which serves the Thailand–Laos railway. For journeys towards Vang Vieng or Luang Prabang, check that you are using the Laos–China Railway station. Transfers between the two railways and to the city centre must be arranged separately.
Check the full station name, your booking, valid identification and boarding document. Allow time for local transport, ticket collection, entry checks and finding the platform.
Domestic routes in Laos and cross-border services on the Laos–China Railway.
Official information and travel rules
Use these official channels to check boarding, baggage and entry requirements. Search schedules, fares and availability for your date, and check railway and station notices for temporary changes.
- Official LCR Ticket appTrains, stations and travel notices for the Laos section of the Laos–China RailwayCheck the official LCR Ticket app
- Thailand Department of Rail Transport: Thailand–Laos cross-border trains and border stationsThe Nong Khai–Vientiane Khamsavath rail connection, border procedures at both stations, and the distinction from the Laos–China Railway station in VientianeVisit official source: Thailand Department of Rail Transport: Thailand–Laos cross-border trains and border stations
Sources checked:
Content updated: . Station entrances, counters and procedures may change. Check your booking and the operator's notices before travelling. Read our Editorial and fact-checking standards。