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Sai Bai Dee from Laos – my 13th country and the final stop on my Cambodia Vietnam Laos circuit.
Laos is a smart pick for solo travel, especially if you want quiet charm and fewer crowds. It doesn’t have big beaches or flashy cities like its neighbours, but that’s part of its draw. Many Indian solo travellers come here for peace, reflection and a slower rhythm. You’ll find this calm in small villages where locals still practise silk weaving and metalwork.
Laos may not be on every backpacking list yet, but it should be. With its rivers, forests and deep-rooted culture, it offers solo travel with meaning and space to breathe. With this itinerary, I’ll take you through some of the best places to visit in Laos, especially if you’re crossing over from Cambodia or Vietnam. From the calm streets of Luang Prabang to the adventure-filled vibes of Vang Vieng, this guide covers key stops for backpacking across the country. You’ll also find useful tips on budgeting, transport, solo travel safety and the new Laos Bullet Train to help plan your trip with ease.
Everything You Need To Know Before a Solo Trip to Laos
For me, Laos felt very different from other countries in Southeast Asia. It’s not a large country, with a population of about 7.7 million, but there’s a lot to explore. Luang Prabang stood out with its temples and quiet streets. I noticed how the city keeps its traditions alive while making space for travellers.
One thing that helped during my solo trip was the Laos Bullet Train. I took it from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng and reached in under two hours. Earlier, this journey took almost seven hours by road. For Indian travellers, this train makes it easier to cover more places in less time and more comfort.
I found Laos to be safe for solo travel. Most places shut early, and there’s a calm atmosphere even in the towns. Vang Vieng used to be known for wild parties, but now it’s more about outdoor activities. River tubing is still popular, and there are a few bars along the way. But things wind down early. In Luang Prabang, the only late-night spot I saw was a bowling alley just outside town.
In late 2024, I came across reports of a few backpackers dying in Vang Vieng due to methanol poisoning from local spirits. After that, I only drank from sealed bottles and avoided anything homemade. If you’re travelling solo, I’d suggest doing the same.
Prices have changed in recent years. Inflation hit hard in 2023, and many costs are higher than what you’ll find in older guides. I carried some Thai baht along with Lao kip, which helped in a few places.
For Indian solo travellers, especially those new to international trips, Laos is a good starting point. Locals are helpful, travel is simple, and you can take your time without pressure. It’s a country that lets you slow down while still giving you enough to see and do.
Crossing Into Laos from Cambodia or Vietnam
If you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia, it’s easy to enter Laos overland from Cambodia or Vietnam. Direct buses are available on both routes, and I found Sharon Travels to be the best option. They help with the border crossing process, offer currency exchange, and make the trip smoother.
From Cambodia, most travellers cross at the Stung Treng–Dom Kralor border. This is one of the lowest-rated crossings on Google Maps. It’s known for small bribes. I had to pay an extra $5. It may vary based on your passport, but for Indian travellers, expect to pay between $2 and $5 unofficially.
Note that the eVisa is not valid at this Cambodia-Laos border. You’ll need to get a visa on arrival. The eVisa only works at airports or at the Laos–Thailand border.
If you’re entering from Vietnam, Indian citizens can only cross by land through the Lao Bao border. You can catch a bus to or from Hue. This route is used less often but is a legal and working option.
If you’re not in Cambodia or Vietnam, the easiest way to reach Laos is to fly. Take a flight to Kuala Lumpur and then connect to Luang Prabang or Vientiane. Flights are frequent and visa on arrival works fine for Indian travellers at the airport.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Laos
If you’re hunting for cheap flights to Laos from India, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some practical tips I follow every time I book my trips.
1. Book Outside of Peak Season
I avoid booking flights during school holidays in India and abroad. Times like Easter, summer, Christmas and even long weekends in the US and Europe tend to push prices up, especially for routes to Southeast Asia. For Indian travellers, flight prices around Diwali and Durga Puja weekends can also shoot up. If you’re flexible with dates, try booking right before or after these high-demand periods.
2. Travel Light, Save Big
Overpacking can cost you. Budget airlines often charge for checked baggage, and the fees are not cheap. When flying India to Laos, airlines like Air Asia may look like the best deal, but keep in mind that they don’t include check-in luggage in the base fare. I usually pack light with mix-and-match clothes to avoid extra charges and make bus or train transfers easier once I land.
3. Use Smart Tools for Flight Comparisons
I rely on Skyscanner and WeGo to find cheap flights to Laos. These platforms let you check multiple dates and nearby airports at once. For a trip like this, staying flexible with your travel dates can make a big difference. Sometimes shifting your trip by just a day or two can help you save a lot.
Laos Routes and Itineraries
The Classic Laos Route for Indian Backpackers
If you’re planning a one-week trip and want to keep it simple, the Luang Prabang–Vang Vieng route is your best bet. It’s easy to follow, budget-friendly and lets you experience both the culture and adventure side of Laos.
Option 1: Classic Northern Laos Loop (Best for First-Timers)
Luang Prabang ? Vang Vieng ? Vientiane
This is the most popular route and works well if you’re flying into Laos or coming from Vietnam or Cambodia. Here’s how I did it:
- Luang Prabang: A heritage city with temples, local markets and the famous alms-giving ceremony
- Vang Vieng: Outdoor activities like tubing, hiking and kayaking
- Vientiane: The capital city, good for visas, buses and flight connections
You can easily travel between these cities using the Laos Bullet Train, which cuts down long travel hours.
Option 2: Enter from Thailand (Chiang Rai Route with Slow Boat)
If you’re already in Northern Thailand, this route adds a bit more charm to your trip.
- Start in Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai
- Cross into Laos at Huay Xai
- Take the 2-day Slow Boat to Luang Prabang
This part of the journey is about the experience. The boat ride along the Mekong River is scenic and slow-paced. It includes an overnight stop in Pakbeng, a small town with limited but decent stay options. This route is great if you want to soak in the landscape before jumping into the main Laos circuit.
From Luang Prabang, continue on the same track:
- Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng – Vientiane
- Exit Laos via Nong Khai back into Thailand
Option 3: Enter from Cambodia (Budget and Backpacker-Friendly)
If you’re crossing over from Don Det, this is a good low-cost route:
- Don Det – Pakse: Optional stop
- Pakse – Vientiane: Overnight bus
- Vientiane – Luang Prabang: By bullet train or bus
- Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng: Spend your last few days here
- Exit via Luang Prabang (flight) or head to Vietnam by bus
This route slows down your travel pace and helps stretch your budget. You’ll see a mix of nature, cities and rural life — ideal for Indian backpackers on a flexible schedule.
Best Time to Visit Laos
The best time to visit Laos is between November and January. The weather is dry and cool, with pleasant days and slightly chilly nights. I visited in October and caught the start of this season. There was light rain once or twice in Luang Prabang, but nothing that disrupted my plans. I saw just 2 or 3 other Indian travellers during my week there, so it felt uncrowded.
Avoid the June to October period if possible. This is the rainy season. Roads can get blocked due to floods, and some attractions like Vang Vieng’s caves may shut down. You do get lush landscapes and full waterfalls, but travel can be tricky.
March to May is Laos’ slash-and-burn season. Many areas are covered in smoke, with poor air quality. If you’re planning hikes or long travel days, it’s better to skip this period.
Data and SIM in Laos
Wi-Fi is available in most tourist spots, hostels and cafes, but don’t expect it at every small restaurant or roadside stall.
Buying a local SIM card is easy and cheap. I picked up a 5 GB, 10-day SIM for about 30,000 kip at Wattay International Airport. It worked well across Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. To check your balance, just dial *123#.
A local SIM is helpful for booking transport, using ride-hailing apps and registering on the Lao-China Railway app, which can be quite frustrating without a local number.
If you’re worried about changing your SIM or don’t need one for long, consider buying an eSIM from Airalo. You get instant connectivity and don’t have to swap out your Indian SIM. Airalo is running a 15% discount for new users and 10% for returning users all through 2025.
How Much Does a Solo Trip to Laos Cost for Indian Travellers?
Laos is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia, especially if you’re travelling solo. With some smart planning, you can explore the country without overspending. Hostels are cheap, local food is filling and transport options are easy on the pocket. Here’s a breakdown based on my 11-day solo trip.
Estimated Cost for a 10–11 Day Solo Trip to Laos
| Expense | Cost (INR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| One-Way Flight | ?15,000 | From India to Luang Prabang or Vientiane |
| Accommodation | ?8,000 | ?800 per night × 10 nights in hostels |
| Food | ?16,500 | ?1,500 per day × 11 days (local food + coffee + snacks) |
| Transport | ?2,500 | Buses, tuk-tuks, bullet train (short trips) |
| Activities | ?4,000 | Entry fees, tubing, day trips |
Total Cost: ?46,000 approx
If you stretch your trip to one month, expect the total to go up to ?80,000–?1,00,000 depending on the number of intercity travels, visa fees, and activities. Laos is still slightly more expensive than backpacking in Thailand, but the slower pace and offbeat vibe make it worth it.
Want to save more? Skip internal flights, avoid high-end restaurants and stick to local buses instead of private taxis.
Top Places to Visit in Laos – Based on My Route
Here’s a breakdown of the best places I visited on my solo trip across Laos, from Don Det to the Lao Bao border. I’ve also added a few notable places I skipped but are worth knowing about if you’re planning a longer backpacking route through Laos.
Don Det
Don Det, part of the 4000 Islands in southern Laos, was my entry point from Cambodia. It’s a laid-back island with no cars, a few bikes, and a lot of hammocks. The Mekong flows right by the island, and you can just sit by the river, eat good food and slow down. Most guesthouses have basic bungalows and river views. You can rent a cycle and explore nearby Don Khon or visit the Li Phi waterfalls. It’s the kind of place where one night can turn into four without you realising.
Vientiane
I passed through Vientiane twice and stayed a night each time. As the capital, it’s quiet and doesn’t offer much for travellers compared to the rest of the country. I visited Pha That Luang, the national symbol, and walked along the riverside. The pace here is slow and the streets are wide and calm. It’s mainly a transit hub with buses and trains to the rest of the country and into Vietnam or Thailand.
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is where Laos shows off its best side. The night market, street food, golden-roofed temples and Mekong views all made this city a highlight of my trip. It’s touristy, but still feels very Laos at its core. I climbed Mount Phousi at sunset, visited Wat Aham, and saw the early morning alms ceremony. Don’t miss a day trip to the Kuang Si Waterfalls. I found budget hostels easily and good local food at the market. You can also take a ferry across the river for quiet villages and jungle views.
Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng surprised me. I expected loud parties but found nature, good cafes and plenty of outdoor activities. You can go tubing, kayaking, ziplining or even take a hot air balloon ride. The town is surrounded by limestone mountains, and the views are beautiful, especially during sunrise. It’s worth at least two nights if you enjoy being outdoors.
Lao Bao Border (to Vietnam)
Overland exit point to Central Vietnam
I left Laos through the Lao Bao border, heading towards Hue in Vietnam. The journey from Vientiane to the border was long but manageable. It’s the only legal land crossing into Vietnam for Indian passport holders. Not much to see here, but it’s a useful point if you’re combining Laos with a Vietnam trip.
Places I Didn’t Visit (But Worth Mentioning)
Nong Khiaw
A peaceful town three hours from Luang Prabang, surrounded by tall limestone peaks. Many travellers say it’s more scenic and less crowded than Vang Vieng. It’s known for hikes, viewpoints and village treks.
Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars
Located in the Xiangkhoang Plateau, this region is known for mysterious ancient stone jars scattered across the landscape. It’s also a reminder of Laos’ war history, with museums and stories about the bombing during the Vietnam War. Worth visiting only if you’re heading east towards Vietnam via Vieng Xai.
Is It Safe in Laos?
From my experience, Laos is quite safe for solo travellers, especially in the main cities of Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. The locals are friendly and I didn’t face any issues during my trip. Still, it’s smart to stay alert in crowded places like markets and keep your belongings close. I always kept my phone and wallet secure by placing my hands in my pockets while entering or exiting busy areas. With basic precautions, travelling in Laos independently should be no problem at all.
Indian Food in Laos
If you’re craving Indian food while backpacking in Laos, you won’t have to search too hard, especially in tourist-friendly cities like Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane. In Luang Prabang, I found a couple of decent spots like Namaste India and Royal Tandoori, both offering North Indian staples like dal, paneer and tandoori rotis.
Vang Vieng has fewer options, but I did spot one Indian restaurant near the main street, serving thalis and biryanis. The food was a bit toned down in spice, but still comforting after days of Lao meals.
Vientiane had the widest range. Places like Jamil Zahid Indian Food and Taj Mahal Restaurant served proper Indian-style curries, naan and even chai.
Most Indian restaurants are slightly pricier than local food stalls, but still budget-friendly by Indian standards. If you’re vegetarian, it’s worth sticking to Indian spots for a few meals, since local Lao food is meat-heavy and often includes fish sauce.
Working Remotely in Laos
Working remotely from Laos is possible in major cities like Luang Prabang and Vientiane, where most hostels and cafes offer reliable Wi-Fi and a quiet atmosphere. I worked a few hours each day from riverside cafes and found the environment relaxed and distraction-free. While smaller towns like Vang Vieng have fewer co-working options, you can still find decent internet in guesthouses. Mobile data is cheap and useful as backup. If you’re planning to work remotely, stick to bigger towns and always check Wi-Fi speed before booking your stay.
Responsible Travel in Laos
Travelling responsibly in Laos means respecting local customs, supporting small businesses and being aware of the country’s complex history. I noticed that many rural areas still follow traditional lifestyles, and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially in temples and villages. Choosing eco-conscious tours, avoiding unethical wildlife attractions and being mindful of plastic use can make a real difference. Laos is still developing, so small actions by travellers can go a long way in preserving its culture and environment.
Quick Tips for Responsible Travel in Laos:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural communities
- Avoid giving sweets or money to children
- Choose homestays or local guesthouses over big hotel chains
- Say no to wildlife interactions and selfie tourism
- Carry a refillable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste
In short, Laos is a wonderful place for solo travellers looking to explore a peaceful, culturally rich country without spending a lot. If you want to add another destination to your list and don’t have a huge budget, Laos is well worth the trip.
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