Readme before you journey
Hello, Vang Vieng.
Vang Vieng is a city in Laos. Those who love nature travel must dream that one day they will have the opportunity to visit this small town, but it is full of the beauty of rivers, mountains, and beautiful caves. There are also many adventure activities for us to enjoy. This trip, we planned for a long time since the beginning of the year. We started by choosing accommodation first. When we opened the information and saw the pictures of this place, we immediately fell in love and had to stay here. That is, Champala Lao Bungalow, so we immediately booked it for fear of being full because there are not many rooms here. As for the journey, it took a long time to decide whether to fly or take a bus. In conclusion, we will go by bus. Although it takes longer than flying, it saves a lot of money. I've been talking for a long time. Accommodation is ready, tickets are ready. Let's start the journey.
Start the journey to Vang Vieng
Bangkok - Udon Thani - Vang Vieng
Our journey began with a departure from Bangkok at 10:45 PM aboard a NCA First Class coach. The spacious seats reclined comfortably, and the massage function was a welcome addition. As a NCA member, we received a 5% discount, bringing the one-way ticket price down to 605 baht.
Tickets in hand, people ready, let's embark on our journey.
The bus arrived at Udon Thani Bus Terminal around 6:30 AM. Fortunately, we had booked our tickets in advance through the online website of the Transport Co., Ltd. (BKS). We booked and paid for the tickets at a counter service and then picked up the tickets at the BKS ticket counter at Mo Chit 2. The Udon-Nong Khai-Vang Vieng route only has one bus per day, costing 320 baht. The tickets were sold out before we arrived, but don't worry, you can buy a ticket to Vientiane and then find a bus to Vang Vieng.
The bus departs at 8:30. There is still time to wash your face, brush your teeth, and grab a bite to eat before the long journey. Adi walked to the front entrance of the bus station and saw a shop selling fried eggs for 50 baht, including fried eggs, Vietnamese bread, and coffee. So he stopped by to try it.
It was almost time for us to walk to the bus stop. When the bus arrived, we quickly gathered our belongings and prepared to depart. On the way there, we rode a bus from the Lao side. The tickets were ready for our onward journey to Vang Vieng. The journey took approximately 7 hours.
Upon boarding the bus, the staff will distribute arrival cards for us to fill out in English for convenience and speed when arriving at immigration.
Departure Immigration Procedures
He then hurried to board the car to cross to the Lao side, where there was another immigration checkpoint on the Lao side.
Upon arrival at the Laotian border, disembark and prepare your passport and completed immigration form. Join the queue to have your passport stamped. Next, purchase a one-way ticket.
One-way ticket costs 5 baht. You can buy it directly from the vending machine. Please bring your passport when purchasing.
One way ticket is a song that has a similar vibe to BTS's music.
We exchanged Kip while waiting for our passports to be stamped. With a one-way ticket and Kip in hand, we crossed the border and headed straight to Vang Vieng.
Crossing the border and buying a SIM card in Laos
After successfully crossing the border, we stopped by a shop in Lao Tho La Khom to purchase a SIM card. For 100 baht, we received a 4G SIM card with 1.5 MB of data. To conserve data, we disabled all unnecessary cellular programs.
For those who need to exchange currency, there are plenty of exchange booths in the area.
Note: The current exchange rate is 100 Thai baht to 100,000 Lao kip.
The exchange rate for Thai Baht is 1 Baht = 2.5 Kip.
A simple calculation shows that 10,000 kip is approximately equal to 40 baht.
Time
The time in Thailand and Laos is the same, so there is no need to adjust your watch.
Around 1:00 PM, the bus will arrive at a lunch stop for approximately 30 minutes. Those who have not yet purchased a SIM card or exchanged currency can do so at the shop. Please note that the exchange rate here may be slightly lower than at the border.
Sandwich for 10,000 kip
We ordered pork noodle soup and chicken to eat together for 18,000 kip.
The broth is delicious and fragrant. Vegetables and chili paste are also provided.
After a satisfying meal, we continued our journey. The road ahead meandered through small mountains, offering a scenic route for those prone to motion sickness to catch some sleep.
Approximately two hours from the rest stop, we arrived at the Vang Vieng bus station. There, a counter allows for purchasing return tickets to Udon Thani for 90,000 kip. Alternatively, tickets can be obtained through tour agencies within Vang Vieng town. After securing our return tickets, a free shared taxi transported us to the town center. We then navigated using a map to reach our booked accommodation, Champalaou Bungalow.
Vang Vieng Bus Station
After queuing, I successfully purchased a return ticket to Udon Thani for 90,000 kip. Upon purchase, the seller inquired about my accommodation, as they will arrange for a vehicle to pick me up from my lodging and transport me to the Vang Vieng bus station on the day of my departure.
We will take a shared taxi to the city center and then use GPS to walk to our accommodation, which is about 1 km away. Our accommodation, which we booked at the beginning of the year, is Champala Lao Bungalow.
Where to stay in Vang Vieng
Champala Lao Bungalow
A Popular Destination in Vang Vieng with Stunning Mountain Views
This accommodation is a popular spot for visitors to Vang Vieng, and with the owner being Thai, communication is convenient. We booked a wooden cabin with a hammock for relaxing and enjoying the view. The highlight of our stay was the breakfast area, where the food was affordable and the views were breathtaking. The mountains were magnificent, and we could even see hot air balloons floating by. Our cabin, which cost 1,200 baht per night and could accommodate three people, offered a truly immersive experience. Let's take a closer look at the atmosphere of our accommodation.
The room features one king-size bed and one single bed. Additionally, a hammock is available on the front porch for relaxation.
Review of Champala Lao Bungalow
Contact and Booking Information
Note: This information is translated from the original Thai text and may not be entirely accurate. Please refer to the original source for the most up-to-date information.
Champalao Bungalows
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ChampalaoBungalows/?fref=mentions
After freshening up in the shower, we got dressed and headed out to explore the city in search of a tour program for tomorrow's excursion. We also planned to enjoy a delightful dinner by the Song River.
Upon encountering the first shop near our accommodation, TN. Tour was greeted with a jovial and friendly sales pitch. The prices seemed reasonable, so we readily agreed to book a tour, saving us time for dinner.
The package price is very cheap. It includes a visit to Tham Nam, Tham Chang, a boat ride, and the Blue Lagoon for 110,000 kip per person, which is about 440 baht. It also includes all entrance fees and a lunch. I think the price is reasonable.
Where to go in Vang Vieng
1. Tham Jang - Orange Bridge
The Tham Jang cave is located approximately 1 km from Vang Vieng town. We cycled from our accommodation, which wasn't too far. The entrance to Tham Jang is located within the Vang Vieng Resort. The entrance fee is 2,000 kip per person + 2,000 kip per vehicle, totaling 4,000 kip at the first checkpoint. You can then park your vehicle before the orange bridge. However, to access the upper cave, an additional entrance fee of 15,000 kip is required.
2. Water Cave
The cave is like a tunnel where we lie on inner tubes and pull ourselves along with ropes. The entrance has some stalactites hanging down, which can be a bit scary, but it's also exciting and refreshing. After playing, we had lunch here.
The package we booked includes lunch with fried rice and BBQ.
3. Zipline
The cave area has a zipline for those who enjoy exciting and challenging activities to test their courage. The last base is said to be very thrilling, so adventure enthusiasts should not miss it.
4. Elephant Cave
On the way to the cave, our guide will take us to a temple where we can pay our respects. There is an entrance fee, but it is included in the tour package.
4. Paddle a boat along the Song River
After exploring Tham Nam and Tham Chang caves, we boarded a boat and headed to the launch point. Those who were not comfortable paddling were paired with a guide. Along the way, we passed a Western-style bar where we could stop for refreshments or play volleyball. However, our stay was brief as we had to continue to the Blue Lagoon. The paddling distance was approximately 5 kilometers, and we had to follow the guide closely as there were sections with rocky outcrops where the boat could get stuck.
5. Blue Lagoon
Another must-visit spot in Vang Vieng is the Blue Lagoon, where the water shimmers with a turquoise hue. However, when we arrived in the evening, the lagoon was crowded with swimmers, making the water appear less clear.
The scenic drive to the Blue Lagoon offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Pu Kham Cave
The Blue Lagoon is located within the cave. The ascent is slightly steep, and some areas inside are dark. Flashlights are available for rent at 10,000 kip, or you can use your phone's flashlight. However, a headlamp would be more convenient for climbing. It is recommended to wear sneakers for the climb. Inside, there is a reclining Buddha statue. If you visit in the evening, the sunlight illuminates the statue beautifully.
The path is rocky, so it is recommended to wear sneakers.
7. Offering Alms to Monks in the Morning
Near our accommodation, there is a morning market where monks walk by to collect alms. Here, sticky rice is offered to the monks by placing a ball of sticky rice in each monk's alms bowl instead of scooping cooked rice as in Thailand. Afterwards, the monks will give blessings for good fortune.
9. Sakura Bar
Sakura Bar is a renowned nightlife destination where patrons can enjoy music spun by DJs, providing an opportunity for dancing and revelry. Notably, between the hours of 10 PM and 11 PM, the bar offers complimentary drinks.
What to eat in Vang Vieng
After a day of exploring, it's time to satisfy your hunger. Vang Vieng offers a variety of restaurants with stunning views of the Song River. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Riverside Dining
Along the Song River, there are restaurants with platforms by the water, which is a highlight of visiting Vang Vieng. There are many restaurants, but you have to come early to get a table by the water. If you come late, you won't be able to sit by the water and you will regret it. If you come, don't forget to eat and soak your feet in the cool Song River.
2. Rock Festival
Must-try Lao dishes when visiting Laos. Be aware that food service can be slow, so it's recommended to order everything at once to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
This restaurant is a BBQ buffet for 59,000 kip/person. It also has live music, mostly Thai songs. The menu includes BBQ pork, grilled fresh, papaya salad, fried rice, chili paste, salad, and fruit. The taste is good. There are seats on the 2nd floor where you can enjoy the view while eating in a relaxed atmosphere.
We're not big fans of mustard dipping sauce, so we tried dipping BBQ in chili paste instead. It was delicious!
3. Pibping Som Moo Kata Restaurant
Jindad is a Lao-style barbecue restaurant. It is a popular spot with a large clientele. If you are interested in trying Lao-style barbecue, you should definitely give it a try.
4. Champalaow Bungalow (Spicy Thai Food - Fresh Coffee)
Non-guests are welcome to order food and drinks while enjoying the stunning views. The restaurant offers flavorful Thai cuisine that will satisfy local palates. Alternatively, you can relax with a cup of coffee while admiring the mountain scenery. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a hot air balloon floating by, making your experience even more unforgettable.
5. Sandwiches and Roti Shop
Rows of stalls selling food and drinks line the streets, with two main clusters: one by the riverside road leading to the bridge and another in front of the temple. Prices vary depending on the ingredients you choose. In Vang Vieng, most tourists are Korean and Thai, as evidenced by the Korean language displayed on signs at almost every shop.
6. Luang Prabang Restaurant
The pastries at Luang Prabang Bakery are visually appealing, with each piece being generously sized. This bakery is another renowned establishment in Vang Vieng, attracting a large number of tourists.
7. Dine in Vang Vieng
This shop is located opposite Luang Prabang Restaurant, selling smoothies and ice cream. We wanted something sour and refreshing, so we initially considered strawberry ice cream and fruit salad. However, they were sold out, so we opted for a strawberry smoothie instead. The taste was rich and delicious. There are also tables where you can relax and enjoy your drink.
8. Holly Cafe in Vang Vieng
A charming cafe located in the heart of Vang Vieng. On my way back to my accommodation, I stopped by for a quick break, took some photos, and enjoyed a hot cocoa before bed. The cafe also offers tour services.
9. Food Stalls in the Market
The shop is located near the morning market. After offering alms, you can stop by for a meal. There is a wide variety of food to choose from, including pho, khao piek, rice porridge, and Chinese crullers, for your morning meal.
If you have free time, you can take a walk around Vang Vieng. I have compiled the atmosphere in Vang Vieng for you to see, in case it is an idea for your trip. Walking around to see the way of life of the people of Vang Vieng is another activity that allows us to learn about their culture and new experiences.
In the morning, vendors set up stalls on both sides of the road, selling vegetables, forest products, and local food.
As we strolled along, we spotted a hot air balloon floating in the sky, prompting us to quickly grab our cameras and capture the moment. We continued our walk, admiring the bridge over the Song River in the morning light.
Another balloon sighting, this time floating beautifully over the Mae Nam River.
We walked back to our accommodation to pack our bags and wait for the car to pick us up at the hotel to take us to the Vang Vieng bus station.
The sun is rising brighter and brighter, it's almost time to go home. I don't want to leave yet.
Upon arriving at the bus station, we presented our booking confirmation to exchange it for a bus ticket with assigned seating.
Ticket in hand, ready to depart, but my heart remains in Vang Vieng. I long to continue exploring.
On the way back, we boarded a bus from the Thai Bus Company. The bus stopped for us to have lunch at the same restaurant as on the way there. Those who had leftover kip could exchange it back here. On the way back, we bought a cup of coffee from Dao Coffee for 25,000 kip.
Immigration Procedures for Entry
Before the bus stops, please prepare your departure immigration card and passport. If you have lost yours, please request one from the bus staff and fill it out.
Upon reaching the Laotian border, proceed to the queue as you did upon arrival, holding your passport and departure immigration form. Subsequently, join the queue to purchase a One-Way Ticket, which costs 50 Baht for this trip.
After arriving, they inserted themselves into the channel like legs, then quickly returned to the car with their friends to cross back to the Thai side.
Upon arrival in Thailand, passengers will be required to disembark with their luggage and proceed through a security scanner for inspection. Subsequently, they will queue for immigration clearance.
Then, I waited to get on the bus back to Udon Thani.
Passengers arriving by plane will wait here to board the bus.
Welcome back to Thailand! Our trip isn't over yet, as we have booked a return bus for 21:45. This gives us several hours to explore Udon Thani city. Let's search for attractions near the bus terminal.
At Udon Thani Bus Terminal, you can store your luggage for 20 baht per bag until 10 pm. Let's see what there is to do near the bus terminal in Udon Thani.
1. Pu Ya Shrine, Udon Thani
We hired a tuk-tuk for 100 baht to take us to our destination. Before we left, we stopped by the shrine of the grandfather and grandmother to pay our respects and seek good fortune.
This is a great time to visit as the venue is beautifully decorated for an event. We then continued our tour to the Thai-Chinese Cultural Center in Udon Thani.
You can feed the koi fish here. There are a lot of koi fish here.
Rental Chinese costumes for photography are also available here.
2. UD Town
Exiting through the side door, we crossed the railway tracks and arrived at UD Town in no time. With a variety of food and restaurants, it's the perfect place to shop, eat, and relax. Let's take a look at the atmosphere.
Stop by to try the first 5-color blended beans in Udon Thani, sold in front of UD Town Market.
Got it, it's delicious. Not too sweet.
3. Gooddays Cafe
Located on the walking street from UD Town, turn left towards Central. We walked past and saw the cutely decorated shop, so we stopped by to order a smoothie. This shop has recently opened and will also have 2 rooms available for rent on the upper floor.
4. Fried Oyster Omelette by Auntie Hui
This restaurant is located near the Udon Thani Bus Terminal. It offers a wide variety of delicious dishes, including crispy oyster omelets, oyster omelets with shrimp and squid. We decided to try a dish and it was delicious.
The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.
5. Central Plaza Udon Thani
After taking a picture with the Christmas tree in front of Central Department Store, we walked back to the bus station to pick up our luggage and prepare to return to Bangkok. We boarded the bus at 9:45 PM and arrived in Bangkok around 5:30 AM. This concludes our Vang Vieng trip. Adi's trip may not be the cheapest, as we prioritize accommodation with a good atmosphere and eat at a variety of prices, which may make our trip more expensive than others. However, we assure you that the quality is worth the price.
Estimated Expenses Summary
Transportation
Nakhonnayok Tour Bangkok-Udon Thani Member Discount 5% = 605 Baht
Nakhonnayai Tour Udon Thani - Bangkok. Members get 5% discount = 454 Baht.
Bus from Udon Thani to Vang Vieng = 320 Baht
Vang Vieng-Udon Thani bus = 360 baht
Total ticket price = 1,739 baht
Accommodation Fees
Champa Lao Bungalow 1,200 Baht / 3 people = 400 Baht/night x 2 nights = 800 Baht
Food/Tour/Miscellaneous Expenses
This tour costs 110,000 kip, which is equivalent to 440 baht.
Total cost of food and drinks: 1,895 baht
Estimated total trip expenses: 4,434 baht
This trip, I'd like to provide a detailed review because there are aspects I'd like to share with friends who are planning to visit Vang Vieng. By reading this, you'll get the most information possible to help you prepare and plan your trip more easily. If there are any mistakes, I apologize in advance. See you again on the next trip! And please follow me to travel with Adin.
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อดิพาชิล
Friday, November 8, 2024 4:11 PM
