Thailand-Laos train service to begin on July 19

The SRT is extending the Bangkok-Nong Khai route for this new service.

The train will depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok at 9:25 p.m. on July 19 and arrive in Vientiane at 9:05 a.m. on July 20, Bangkok Post reported.

An official said that on arrival at their destination, travelers can use public transport services to travel to downtown Vientiane, 7-9 kilometers away.

They can also board the high-speed Laos-China railway at Vientiane Railway Station to travel to other provinces in Laos or to China.

China was the biggest sources of visitors to Thailand so far this year.

Thailand and China have been forging their recent tourism ties. In March, both countries permanently waived visa requirements for each other's citizens.

Visitors from China are now able to stay for up to 60 days in Thailand while tourists from Thailand can stay in China for 30 days.

It is expected that one-way ticket fares from Bangkok to Vientiane will start around 300 bahts (US$9) for a third-class fan seat, the official said. Travel time will be about 10 hours.

A trial service between Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Thanalaeng and Vientiane stations was completed on May 21 without any problems.