Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge (First)
A vital international bridge connecting Thailand and Laos over the Mekong River, facilitating trade, travel, and cultural exchange.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge (First)
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital international bridge connecting Thailand and Laos over the Mekong River, facilitating trade, travel, and cultural exchange.
"It's a crucial link, but be ready for border checks and have pristine USD for your Laos visa! "
🎯 Pristine USD for Visa
Bring crisp, new USD bills for your Laos visa on arrival. They're strict! :moneybag:
🚶♂️ DIY Immigration
Politely decline offers of help at immigration; fill out forms yourself. :passport_control:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mekong River Views
Bridge walkway
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the mighty Mekong River, connecting two distinct cultures.
Cross-Border Experience
Bridge crossing
Experience the unique sensation of driving on the left in Thailand and right in Laos.
International Gateway
Bridge structure
Witness a vital link for trade and tourism between Thailand and Laos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Visa & Border Crossing Prep
Vehicle & Transport Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pristine USD for Visa
Bring crisp, new USD bills for your Laos visa on arrival. They're strict! :moneybag:
🚶♂️ DIY Immigration
Politely decline offers of help at immigration; fill out forms yourself. :passport_control:
Will I need to cross Lao-Thai friendship bridge on a fulfil if I going from Vientiane to Bangkok by VIP sitting bus?
Laos border entry from Thailand. Updated info 2024 - Friendship bridge, Slow boat
🚌 Friendship Bridge Bus
Use the convenient bus for a quick crossing. Runs frequently. :bus:
🚗 Car Parking Option
Park your car nearby (approx. 100 Baht) and take a tuk-tuk to the bridge. :car:
Quick question on visa run over Friendship bridge
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pristine USD for Visa
Bring crisp, new USD bills for your Laos visa on arrival. They're strict! :moneybag:
🚶♂️ DIY Immigration
Politely decline offers of help at immigration; fill out forms yourself. :passport_control:
🚌 Friendship Bridge Bus
Use the convenient bus for a quick crossing. Runs frequently. :bus:
🚗 Car Parking Option
Park your car nearby (approx. 100 Baht) and take a tuk-tuk to the bridge. :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture scenic river views and the bridge's impressive structure. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is a crucial international crossing offering scenic Mekong River views and a unique cross-border experience. While essential for trade and travel, visitors should be prepared for potentially long queues at immigration and customs, and ensure they have pristine USD for visa fees.
"The Lao Thai Friendship Bridges are a series of international bridges that connect Laos and Thailand over the Mekong River. These bridges play a major role in cross-border trade, travel, and cooperation between the two countries
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🛤 1st Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge
Location: Nong Khai (Thailand) – Vientiane Prefecture (Laos)
Opened: 1994
Use: Road and rail (rail to Thanaleng station, near Vientiane)
Most popular bridge – used heavily for tourism and trade.
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🛤 2nd Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge
Location: Mukdahan (Thailand) – Savannakhet (Laos)
Opened: 2006
Use: Road only
Commonly used by cargo trucks and commercial vehicles.
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🛤 3rd Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge
Location: Nakhon Phanom (Thailand) – Khammouane (Laos)
Opened: 2011
Use: Road only
Known for faster customs clearance.
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🛤 4th Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge
Location: Chiang Khong (Thailand) – Houayxay (Laos)
Opened: 2013
Use: Road only
Important for connections toward China (via Laos).
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🛤 5th Bridge (Under Construction / Planned)
Location: Bueng Kan (Thailand) – Bolikhamxay (Laos)
Expected Completion: Possibly around 2025–2026
Will further expand trade connectivity.
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Key Facts:
All bridges facilitate visa checks, customs, and immigration.
Vehicles drive on the left in Thailand and on the right in Laos, so bridge crossings include a switch over section
The bridges are part of the Asian Highway Network, improving transport across Southeast Asia"
Thug Life
"They nice to see . But hard work with border checks and to re enter Laos I had to do another visa on top of the 7 day one I had"
Kevan Stillings
"The Bridge is 1,174 metres in length and 12.7 metres wide and features two traffic lanes as well as a railway line which spans from Thailand to Thanaleng in Lao PDR. The bridge is an important channel in connecting the two countries and allowing quick and convenient travel between them as well as strengthening the relationship between the two neighbouring nations."
Raphael Navarro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Chiang Khong, you can take a bus or taxi to the bridge. The journey is relatively short, and signage is usually clear.
You can walk, cycle, take a tuk-tuk, or use the Friendship Bridge bus. If driving your own vehicle, be prepared for border procedures and potential vehicle inspections.
Yes, there's a Friendship Bridge bus that runs frequently between the Thai and Lao sides. From the Lao side, you can find onward transport to Vientiane.
Yes, but Thai vehicles require a 'Car Passport' and safety inspection. Be aware of the traffic side switch (left in Thailand, right in Laos).
Many travelers opt for the slow boat experience, which often starts near Chiang Rai and involves crossing the bridge. Alternatively, direct bus services are available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Laos, costing around $40 USD. Ensure you have pristine USD bills. Some may need to pre-apply for an eVisa.
Immigration and customs typically operate during daylight hours, but it's best to check current timings as they can vary. Arriving early is recommended to avoid queues.
While there are no direct bridge tolls for pedestrians or bus passengers, you will pay for the bus fare and any visa fees. Drivers may incur separate charges.
You'll need your passport with sufficient validity, and potentially a visa for Laos (VOA or pre-arranged). Have your immigration forms ready.
Visa requirements for re-entering Thailand depend on your nationality and previous visa status. It's advisable to check the latest Thai immigration regulations beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge walkway offers excellent vantage points. You can also get good shots from the riverbanks on either side, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Photography is generally allowed on the pedestrian walkways. However, be mindful of any restricted areas or official buildings.
Expect scenic shots of the Mekong River, the bridge's impressive architecture, and the bustling cross-border activity.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds, making for more picturesque photos.
Drone usage is often restricted in border areas and over international infrastructure. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for the Friendship Bridge bus is a straightforward and relatively quick way to cross with kids. If you're driving, consider parking your car and using the bus to avoid the complexities of vehicle border procedures. The views of the Mekong River can also be a point of interest for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be mindful of the visa fee; ensure you have pristine USD. Avoiding unofficial 'helpers' at the border can also save you money, as they may overcharge for their services. Doing the paperwork yourself is straightforward and free.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Border Crossing
After obtaining your visa and completing immigration, you'll proceed through customs. The entire process can take anywhere from an hour to several hours, especially during peak times. Travelers often report long queues, particularly on weekends or during holiday periods. Some visitors recommend arriving very early in the morning to minimize wait times.
When returning to Thailand, you'll undergo Thai entry immigration and customs. There's a small fee (around 20 Baht) for the exit stamp from Laos. The Friendship Bridge bus is a convenient and frequent option for crossing the bridge itself, costing about 30 Baht each way.
Vehicle Crossings and Transport
Once on the Lao side, remember that traffic drives on the right, whereas in Thailand it's on the left. The bridge has a section designed to facilitate this switch. For onward travel from the Lao side to Vientiane, you can catch a bus or arrange for a taxi. The Friendship Bridge bus is a reliable option for crossing the bridge itself, running every 10 minutes or when full.
It's worth noting that the bridge is a vital artery for commercial traffic and tourism, so expect it to be busy. Planning your crossing during off-peak hours can significantly improve the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit