Air
The airport is 7 km south of town – 15,000 kip by tuk-tuk. At the time of publication there were no domestic flights to or from Luang Namtha as the airport was being upgraded to an international airport. Lao Airlines, T086-312180, has an office south of town on the main road. When flights do reopen it is imperative to book in advance.
Bicycle/motorbike
Bicycles for hire from next door to the Manychan Guesthouse, opposite post office, for 15,000 kip a day. Motorbikes for hire for US$5 a day from Zuela guesthouse.
Boat
Call T020-568 6051 for information. Slow boats are the best and most scenic option but their reliability will depend on the tide and in the dry season (Mar-May) they often won’t run. There isn’t really a regular boat service from Luang Namtha, so you will have to either charter a whole boat and split the cost or hitch a ride on a boat making the trip already. If you organize a boat it should cost around US$150 to Houei Xai. It is cheaper to go from Luang Namtha to Houei Xai than vice versa. The Boat Landing Guesthouse is a good source of information; if arrangements are made for you, a courtesy tip is appreciated.
Bus/truck/songthaew
The main bus station and its ticket office, T086-312164, daily 0700-1600, are about 100 m north of the Morning Market. This bus station is set to be abolished to make way for a new Malaysian Hotel. A new bus station is planned on the corner near Panda Restaurant on the main road.
To Muang Sing, daily 0800, 1100 and 1400, 1½ hrs, 20,000 kip, additional pickups may depart through the day, depending on demand. To Udomxai, daily 0830, 1200 and 1430, 4-6 hrs, 32,000 kip, additional services leave early afternoon if there is demand, otherwise jump on a bus to Luang Prabang.
To Houei Xai, 0900 and 1330, 55,000 kip. To Luang Prabang, daily 0930, 10 hrs, 70,000 kip. To Vientiane, 20 hrs, 140,000 kip. To get to Nong Khiaw, 60,000 kip you need to go via Udomxai (leave early).
To Boten (Chinese border) daily 0800, 1100 and 1400, 1½ hrs, 25,000 kip. Many travellers have reported obtaining a visa here; however, it is less risky to organize a visa in advance in Vientiane. Tourist visas are US$70-150 depending on nationality. US citizens are unable to obtain visas at this crossing. Check with the Chinese embassy.
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