Chiang Mai to Huay Xai
Huay Xai is a beautiful stopover town on the border with Thailand. It is a popular entry place to Laos, and luckily there is a combi cross-border service that takes you from Chiang Mai all the way to Huay Xai.
The distance between the towns is around 310 km, and the trip takes from 6.5 to 8 hours.
Chiang Mai to Huay Xai by Bus (or Van) and Taxi
- Price: 950 – 1,650 THB
- Transport type: bus/van + tuk tuk/songthaew
- Companies: Green Bus, Yortdoy Travel, Naluangs
- Travel time: 6.5 – 8 hours
To get from Chiang Mai to Huay Xai, you have a couple of options: a bus and a tuk tuk or van and tuk tuk (or songthaew).
Bus Trip: You’ll hop on a comfy air-conditioned bus from the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3. It’s a nice ride, and you can just sit back and enjoy the northern Thailand scenery passing by. The journey usually takes around 6.5 to 8 hours, depending on traffic.
Once you arrive at Chiang Khong, you’ll switch transport. Once at the border, you’ll continue your journey with Naluangs. Their friendly staff will be waiting to guide you across the border into Laos. They’ll transfer you in a tuk-tuk, which is a fun way to experience local transportation. From there, you’ll hop on the Sleeping Bust to the final destination.
Van Trip: Vans depart from Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai. They’re smaller than buses but still comfortable. You’ll have the same journey ahead, switching to a Shuttle Bus and then a songthaew.
Just remember, whether you choose the bus or the van, you’ll want to pack light. The vans and tuk-tuks aren’t huge, so there’s a limit to how much luggage you can bring. Usually, you can bring one bag weighing less than 15 kilograms without any extra charges. But if you’ve got heavier luggage, be prepared to book an extra seat.
Chiang Mai to Huay Xai Schedule
| Departure | Departure Station | Arrival | Arrival Station | Duration | Company |
| 9:00 | Tha Phae Gate Chiang Mai | 15:30 | Huay Xai Transfer | 6h 30m | Yortdoy Travel |
| 9:30 | Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 | 17:30 | Phetaloun Bus Station Huay Xai | 8h | Naluangs |
Frequently Asked Questions about Travel to Huay Xai
What is the best way to travel from Chiang Mai to Huay Xai?
There are three main ways to travel from Chiang Mai to Huay Xai: bus, minivan, or private car. The most popular option is the bus and tuk tuk combo. There are several companies that operate this route, and the journey time is typically between 6 and 8 hours. Minivans are a slightly faster option, but they are also more expensive. Private cars are the most expensive and tricky option, because this is a crossborder route.
How long does it take to travel from Chiang Mai to Huay Xai?
It typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, while minivans can take a bit less time, around 5 to 6 hours. Private cars can make this trip in around 6 hours, but at the end of the day it all depends on the traffic.
How much does it cost to travel from Chiang Mai to Huay Xai?
Buses are the cheapest option, with tickets starting at around 950 baht. Minivans are a bit more expensive, with tickets starting at around 1,650 baht.
Do I need a visa to enter Laos?
Whether or not you need a visa to enter Laos depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European countries, can obtain a visa on arrival in Laos. The visa on arrival typically costs around $35 USD and is valid for 30 days.
What documents do I need to cross the border?
To cross the border from Thailand to Laos, you will need your passport, visa (if required), and onward travel ticket (if required).
What Does a Chiang Khong Border Crossing Look Like?
The border crossing process between Thailand and Laos is generally quite simple. On the Thai side, you will need to exit immigration. Then, you will be taken across the Friendship Bridge to the Lao side (do not attempt to walk it, as the road is long and not very safe). On the Lao side, you will need to obtain a visa on arrival (if required) and then go through immigration.
What should I pack for my trip to Huay Xai?
The weather in Huay Xai is similar to the weather in Chiang Mai. However, it can be a bit cooler in the evenings, so you may want to pack a light sweater or jacket. You should also pack comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, and a hat. If you are planning on taking a slow boat down the Mekong River, you will also want to pack a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes.
