Planning a trip to Huay Xai
Getting There
Crossing the river from Chiang Khong in Thailand you arrive at Immigration where you can get a visa on arrival if you haven't already got one. Some 500m (1,640 ft.) to the north is the slow-boat landing. From here you can get a boat to Pakbeng and then Luang Prabang, taking 2 days. Boats tend to leave at about 9am. There is a ticket office at the landing or you can book through a guesthouse. If you wish to take a risk with your life, you can also get a speedboat from a landing 2km (1 1/4 miles) to the south of Immigration. It is possible to get buses to Luang Namtha in the north or indeed Luang Prabang from the bus station approximately 3km (1 3/4 miles) south of town.
Fast Facts
Banks & Currency Exchange -- The Lao Development Bank (open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm) has an exchange booth near Immigration. It will cash traveler's checks and change U.S. dollars and Thai bhat.
Post Office -- The Post Office (Saykong Rd.; Mon-Fri 8am-10pm) can facilitate international calls.
