Oudomxay Province Transportation

How to Get in Oudomxay Province

By Air

You can get to Oudomxay Province by air by flying into the Oudomxay Airport (ODY).

  • Domestic flights: You can take a domestic flight from Vientiane or Luang Prabang to the Oudomxay Airport. Lao Airlines operates flights to Oudomxay from both cities, with several flights per week. Flight schedules may vary depending on the season, so it's best to check with the airline for the latest information.
  • International flights: There are currently no direct international flights to Oudomxay Airport. However, you can take an international flight to either Vientiane or Luang Prabang, and then take a domestic flight to Oudomxay. Some airlines that operate international flights to Laos include Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, and AirAsia.

Once you arrive at the Oudomxay Airport, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to get to your final destination in Oudomxay Province. The airport is located about 5 kilometers outside of the city center, and the ride should take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

By Bus

You can get to Oudomxay Province by bus from several cities in Laos. Here's how to get there by bus:

  • Vientiane to Oudomxay: You can take a bus from the Northern Bus Station in Vientiane to Oudomxay. The journey takes about 10-12 hours, depending on the type of bus and the route it takes. Buses leave throughout the day and night, with several departures per day.
  • Luang Prabang to Oudomxay: You can also take a bus from Luang Prabang to Oudomxay. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, and buses leave throughout the day.
  • Phonsavan to Oudomxay: If you're in Phonsavan, you can take a bus to Oudomxay, which takes around 8-10 hours.
  • Huay Xai to Oudomxay: If you're coming from Thailand, you can take a bus from the border town of Huay Xai to Oudomxay. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, and buses leave throughout the day.

Check the schedule below:

Depart from Km Price Departure Time
Boten, Chinese Border 82 km LAK28,000 09:10
Luang Namtha 115 km LAK32,000 08:30
12:00
14:00
Luang Prabang 194 km LAK45,000 09:30
12:30
15:00
Nong Kiew 114 km LAK30,000 08:00
Phongsaly 236 km LAK60,000 08:30
Vientiane

VIP 1

VIP 2

583 km LAK110,000

LAK155,000

LAK130,000

06:45
13:4516:0017:00
Houay Xay 102 km

310 km

LAK35,000

LAK80,000

09:00

09:00
12:00

The bus stations in each city may vary depending on the bus company, so it's best to check with your accommodation or a local travel agency for the latest information. Bus tickets can be purchased at the bus station or through a travel agency. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure availability.

More Information on Public Bus Schedules in Oudomxay, Laos

By Boat

Mekong riverboats plying the 2-day route between Luang Prabang and Houay Xay stop at Pakbeng. From Pakbeng, busses leave twice daily for Muang Xay in the morning (LAK 30,000) for the 3-hour drive.

Note: Schedules and prices are subject to change. Please check before planning your departure.

By Train

Boten-Vientiane Railway has opened in 2021. Visitors can take trains from major cities in Laos, such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang,  to Muang Xay, Oudomxay Province.

Note: The railway tickets may be limited during the peak season, please be sure to book your tickets in advance.

Getting around Oudomxay Province

  • Motorbike or Scooter

Renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular and affordable way to get around Oudomxay Province. You can rent one from a rental shop in the city or your accommodation, and you will need to show your passport and a valid driver's license. Just be aware that the roads in the province can be steep and winding, so it's essential to be a confident rider.

  • Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are also widely available in Oudomxay Province, and they are a comfortable way to get around the city or to visit nearby attractions. Negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey, and make sure you agree on the destination and time of return.

  • Bicycle

Some accommodations offer bicycle rental, and it's an excellent way to explore the countryside and nearby villages. Just be aware that the roads can be rough, and you will need to be physically fit for some of the steeper hills.

  • Car Rental

If you have an international driver's license, you can rent a car to explore Oudomxay province. However, driving in Laos can be challenging, and you should only attempt it if you are confident and experienced.

  • Public Transportation

There are also public buses that connect Oudomxay to other cities and towns in the region. However, they can be crowded, slow, and uncomfortable, so it's not the most convenient way to get around.