I'm looking for anyone who has done the overnight bus ride from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai & Mai via Huay Xai. Am wondering how long it takes, departure times, & if it's possible to pick it up near Pak Mong (if having been at Nong Khiaw)? Appreciate any info that's out there. We're looking at doing it in mid-Feb. instead of the 2 day boat trip via Pak Beng. Thanks!
1
papabeek
I think you have to go through Luang Namtha. It is 5 hours Luang Namtha to Huay Xai. With the border crossing it would be about another 2-3 hours to Chiang Rai. I don't know about the bus time below Luang Namtha
2
kamalarichard
I have driven it,
about 4-5 hours to Luang Namtha ( depending on the section of road that goes to Udomaxi)
than another 4 hours to border
boats all the time.
Then u have to make it to the bus station than bus to Chaing Rai
I stop at Luang Namtha, There is a good Chinese hotel on the main road only $15.
3
nardir3
kamalarichard
What is the name of the Chinese hotel you mention?.Going to Luang Namtha in Jan
4
Captain_Bob
The Lao-Thai bridge near Huay Xai / Chiang Khong is scheduled to open on December 11, 2013. Until then I can't see how they'd have a continuous bus service, and even with the bridge you'd have to change buses since Laos is right hand drive and Thailand is left hand drive. And the border is currently only open 8am-6pm so an "overnight" bus would have to wait for opening time. Transport options will probably change after the bridge opens so check again later.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Thai%E2%80%93Lao_Friendship_Bridge
5
kamalarichard
Dokchamps Hotel, on the main road, Cant miss it. good Indian rest up the road from there
also the Forest retreat next door, runs tours and has good info and food.
I have heard nothing about the bridge opening an for the latest info check out the gt-riders forum they will know f it opens
6
greygapper
Hi there did Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang in one hop .. early this year mini-bus to Chiang Khong quick hop over river picked up at immigration took to bus station sleeper bus to Luang Prabang about 20 hours give or take would guess about the same they way you want to do it....bought "through" ticket from guest house . did the return independently via the 2 day river trip and night in Huax Xai no issues much more relaxing if you have the time ..enjoy
7
Captain_Bob
^^Yep, been following this thread re. progress of the bridge. Info there also suggests Dec11 opening. Watch this space...
http://www.gt-rider.com/thailand-motorcycle-forum/showthread.php/29150-Houei-Xai-Chiang-Khong-Friendship-Bridge-Start/page2
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