Nong Khai is well-known in Thailand as the main border crossing into neighboring Laos, with the Laotian capital situated just across the border. However, this city also offers all the charm of the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isaan. Fortunately, getting from Bangkok to Nong Khai is relatively straightforward.
The distance between Bangkok and Nong Khai is just over 600 kilometers by land, and there are several ways to make this journey, given the significant movement of both Thai and Laotian citizens through the area. Many travelers also choose this route when planning to visit Laos.
The fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Nong Khai is by air. Although Nong Khai itself doesn’t have an airport, there is one nearby, making flying a convenient option.
First, you need to book a flight from Bangkok to Udon Thani. Remember, Bangkok has two airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK)(map), the main airport, and Don Mueang (DMK) (map), which serves many low-cost carriers. It doesn’t matter which airport you depart from, as both are quite far from the city center. To reach Suvarnabhumi, you can take the Airport Link train for 30 baht, while the A1 bus from Mochit serves Don Mueang for the same fare.
Once you arrive at Udon Thani airport, you’ll find vans that will take you to Nong Khai for about 300 baht, with the journey taking around an hour. For added convenience and safety, you can book this ride in advance on 12GoAsia for approximately six euros or more. The driver will also give you the option to be dropped off either in Nong Khai or at the border crossing.
The most scenic way to get from Bangkok to Nong Khai is by train, which is also the most popular option. Night trains depart at 8:25 p.m. from the central Aphiwat station (map), easily accessible from Bang Sue metro station. We highly recommend booking a second-class sleeper berth, priced at just over 30 euros, for a comfortable and restful journey.
The train journey takes about ten hours, so it’s a good idea to bring a long-sleeved shirt or a blanket, as the air conditioning can be quite chilly. They typically serve some basic dinner, but don’t expect anything fancy. The train will drop you off at Nong Khai Central Station, conveniently located near the town center.
The most budget-friendly way to travel between Bangkok and Nong Khai is by bus. But don’t worry about the quality, as this route is operated by Nakhonchai Air, one of the most reputable bus companies in Thailand. Tickets can be purchased in advance on 12GoAsia.
Buses depart at various times throughout the day, both in the morning and evening, from the central terminal in Mochit (map). The buses have strong air conditioning, so be sure to bring a sweater or something warm. The bus journey typically takes about eight to nine hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Keep in mind that traveling to Nong Khai by road is also possible via van, an option offered by some travel agencies for those who didn’t book a ticket in advance. However, we do not recommend this option, as it tends to be less comfortable, and even somewhat risky, for such a long journey. We prefer the train, but ultimately, the choice of how to get from Bangkok to Nong Khai is up to you.
