Laos Itinerary via China: Entering Laos by Bullet Train from China

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With the launch of the Lao–China Bullet Train Railway, travelling to Laos from China has become one of the easiest and most scenic ways to enter the country. If you’re already backpacking through East Asia or want to combine your Laos trip with southern China, this route is worth considering. It’s reliable, fast and a great option for Indian solo travellers heading to Laos in 2025.

The Boten–Vientiane Bullet Train: What You Need to Know

The Boten–Vientiane Bullet Train connects the Chinese city of Kunming in Yunnan province to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. You can easily travel from Kunming Railway Station to Luang Prabang. It passes through key cities like Luang Namtha, Muang Xai, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. The bullet train is high-speed, comfortable and cuts down travel time between northern and central Laos by a huge margin.

In the past, backpacking across Laos meant spending hours on bumpy roads. Now, you can get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng through Laos bullet train in under 2 hours – a route that once took almost 7 hours by bus.

How to Enter Laos from China by Bullet Train (Step-by-Step)

1. Start in Kunming, China
2. Take a bullet train from Kunming South Station to Boten, the Laos border town
3. Clear immigration at Boten – Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival here
4. Continue by high-speed bullet train to Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng or Vientiane

Most tourists travel to Luang Prabang as it is the hub of tourist activities and also provides direct flights to Malaysia and Thailand.

Make sure you’ve downloaded the LCR (Lao–China Railway) app to book tickets in advance. I used a local SIM to register, which made it easier. You can also book via station counters, but they often sell out during holidays.

Pros of the China–Laos Bullet Train Route for Indian Travellers

• Faster connections between major cities in Laos
• Safe and reliable way to enter Laos overland
• Ideal for travellers doing a multi-country route through China and Southeast Asia
• Great if you’re flying into Kunming with budget airlines or combo deals
• Stunning views along the route, especially in the northern mountains

Things to Keep in Mind

• Visa on arrival is available at Boten for Indian travellers, but it’s good to double-check in case rules change in 2025
• If you cannot book the ticket by yourself, just ask your hotel or hostel reception, they’ll book one for you.
• The hotels and hostels need atleast one day to confirm the booking so keep the time in mind.
• Generally pickup from hostel in included in the ticket cost.
• Trains can fill up fast during peak travel seasons, so book in advance if possible
• The Lao–China Railway app can be hard to navigate without a local number – get a Laos SIM at the border for smoother access
• Always carry printed copies of your visa approval (if applying in advance), passport and hotel bookings to speed up immigration

If you’re planning a longer India to Laos backpacking journey and want to do something different, entering Laos from China adds a unique edge to your route. The solo travel Laos experience becomes even more memorable when you arrive by train through scenic mountain passes instead of the usual border crossings.

This route works best if you’re looking to explore northern Laos first – Luang Namtha, Muang Xai or Luang Prabang – before heading south. It’s ideal for slow travellers, nature lovers and anyone keen on combining modern travel with traditional charm.

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