July 2025

Catching a slow boat into Laos from Thailand or vis versa is a pretty common route for most backpackers. It is not only one of the cheaper ways to cross, but also probably the most scenic – much better than just jumping on a plane! The long boat takes 2 days, with about 7-8hrs a day cruising along the Mekong. 

There are two ways you can catch the slow boat; via a tour or the local way. I opted for a tour because I saw way too many backpackers talking about how jam packed and uncomfortable the local slow boat is. Yes, it is much cheaper, but I wanted the comfort. I chose ‘Nagi of Mekong’ to organise my entire trip, from crossing the Thailand border to ending up in Luang Prabang, which is the start of my Laos adventure. 

You can read my full review of the Nagi of Mekong cruise here. 

Getting to the Laos border from Thailand 

If you are getting on the slow boat from Thailand, you will need to make your way to the Thailand/Laos border. There are a few ways to do this, but one is the cheapest. You can get to the border from either Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, by bus or car/van. 

This is the cheapest way to get to the border. You will either want to catch a bus straight to the Chiang Khong or ‘Friendship Bridge’, this depends if you plan on spending a night in Chiang Khong or crossing the border and spending a night in Huay Xai.

From Chiang Mai, it may be a little more expensive, as it’s a further distance. The bus from Chiang Mai to the border/Chiang Khong can be booked on 12go.asia, will take about 6-7hrs and cost 300-450 Baht. 

From Chaing Rai, this bus costs 90-100 Baht and cannot be booked online. Instead, you will need to head down to Bus Terminal 1 and look for platform 6. Here you will most likely be asked where you are heading and shown onto a bus. The buses are very basic, no AC but the windows are left open so it’s still comfortable. The journey takes 2-3hrs. 

Bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong

I personally wouldn’t recommend this option if you are on a budget, but if you want to travel at your own pace and not on public transport – this is an option. You can catch a car or van from either Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, but you will be looking at around $200-$300 or more for the transfer. 

Stick with the bus, it’s a great experience and good for the pockets! 

Crossing the Border 

Crossing the border from Thailand into Laos turned out be very easy and not stressful at all. Even though I was crossing with Nagi of Mekong tours, the whole process didn’t look too difficult to complete yourself.

With my tour we were transferred to Friendship Bridge, where we were escorted to the Thai immigration. Here all we had to do was show our passports and get our exit stamps. Double check you have this because it can cause you issues later one, as my tour guide said, ‘sometimes they forget’. Once you’ve technically left Thailand, you will board a bus that takes about 4 minutes, to the Laos border. 

Immigration forms to fill out Passport control, Thailand Border

Once you arrive at the Laos border, you will need to get your visa. This is easy to locate, you will also need to fill out both forms before handing in your passport. I only waited about 5 minutes to get my passport back and checked the Visa stamp. You then go through immigration, and they check your passport/visa and stamp it. Once through, you will pay for your visa ($40 USD). It really is that simple! 

Bus that transfers across bridge

A couple things:

• You can pay for your Visa for Laos with USD, EURO, or BAHT – they recommend USD, but the bills have to be new! 
• You will need 40 Baht, to pay for the bus across the bridge. 
• You will need to have a passport size photo to give to Laos immigration. 
• There is no security check that I saw.  

Getting to the Pier from the Border 

If you have booked a tour, it is very easy to get to your boat – you will most likely have a transfer included which is worry free. If you haven’t booked a tour, you will need to make your way down to the pier. A tuk-tuk should cost around 25,000 kip, give, or take. 

Buying Tickets

Of course, if you are on a tour your tickets will be included for the slow boat, if you are doing this yourself you will need to find the ticket office – which your tuk-tuk will most likely drop you off at. It isn’t sign posted at all but ask a local to help you. 

A ticket will cost around 210,000 Kip, which will need to be paid in cash. You will receive a piece of paper showing the dates and times for both your boats, over the two days. The tickets have a boat number and seat number, which you will have to look for at the pier. 

Catching the Slow Boat 

No matter which way you’ve decided to complete this journey, your slow boat journey will take 2 days to complete. The local slow boats may also leave on time or later than expected, a good tip is to get to the local ones early so you can secure a goods seat. 

The first day’s journey is to Pakbeng and the second day is to Luang Prabang. If you booked a tour, you won’t make any stops except for the scenic stops at villages etc. The local ones do drop people off along the way, but you will be told which is your stop. 

Staying in Pakbeng 

When you arrive in Pakbeng you will be crowded by local guesthouses trying to sell you a room, if you’ve booked in advance and your hotel offers pick up – they should be waiting for you. If there isn’t a transfer, you will need to walk to your hotel. 

Accommodation in Pakbeng is very basic, and if you want a good deal, you can wait till you arrive. This of course depends on your comfort level! I booked prior to my arrival (my tour also would include it if I wanted), a basic room with aircon cost $20 AUD for a night. 

Day Two of the Slow Boat 

If you are on a tour, don’t worry the guides will find you at the pier and lead you to the correct boat. If you are doing it by yourself, you need to make sure you get on the right boat, as your boat may have changed from yesterday. You don’t want to head back the way you came! 

The day is like day 1, it’s a slow cruise down the river with a couple of tourist stops before arriving in Luang Prabang. Here you can catch a tuk-tuk to your accommodation or have organised transport waiting for you. 

I have a more in-depth vlog about my journey here. 

Tips for the Slow Boat 

• Bring motion sickness tablets – if you get seasick.
• Bring toilet paper.
• Lots of snacks 
• Hand sanitiser 
• A book or download movies to keep entertained. 
• Arrive early to secure good spots if you are catching the local slow boat. 

What’s my verdict? 

I think this is a great experience and a unique way of crossing two countries borders! My opinion may be biased as I was in extreme comfort for my 2-day slow boat trip, but I think it’s something a backpacker should do at least once.  I would recommend spending a little bit more money and catching the long boat via a cruise, I think being jammed onto a boat for 16hrs might have changed my mind on the experience a little. 

This isn’t the cheapest option while travelling, but it’s extremely peaceful to cruise down the Mekong over a few days and just slow down. It’s a different experience and I highly recommend it to all travellers. 

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The Batu Caves are one of the most popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur. This impressive landmark is the site of a Hindu temple and shrine, which attracts visitors and worshipers from all around the world. The Batu Caves has three main caves, its main attracting being the large statue of the Hindu God at the entrance and the 272 rainbow steps. 

This is a must see if you are in Kuala Lumpur and this blog post is going to give you all the information you need to plan your visit. 

This post contains affiliate links, I may receive a small compensation if you use them – don’t worry at no extra cost to you! Thank you for your ongoing support. 

The Batu Caves lie about 11km north from Kuala Lumpur. Located in a neighbourhood named ‘Batu Caves’. The neighbourhood is mainly residential, so there isn’t much to see in the surrounding area. However, there are a few shops and restaurants near the Batu Caves if you get hungry. 

What is the best time to go?

I recommend arriving as early as possible. This is such a popular landmark that it gets extremely busy throughout the day. If you are a photographer, I recommend coming first thing in the morning, either on the morning train or by Grab. The complex is almost empty from tourists unless there is a religious event or holiday happening. 

I arrived at 8am, and there were only a few people walking around. By 9.30 am when I had finished exploring the complex, it was already packed with tourists. 

Cost? 

The main section of Batu Caves is completely free to enter. Here you can walk up the rainbow steps and explore the two temples located inside the cave. If you wish to enter the Cave Villa or Ramayana Cave, this is going to come at an extra cost. 

How much time should I give myself? 

I spent 2 hours exploring the Batu Caves area and about 1.5 hours for all travel time. If you want to explore at a casual pace, I recommend 4-5 hours to complete this activity. 

How to Get There 

By Train 

The easiest way to get to the Batu caves is by train. This is the way I decided to get there, it’s cheap, quick, and easy. There is a train that runs directly to the Batu Caves from KL Sentral on the KTM Komuter line. The train runs from the stations Pulau Sebang – Batu Caves and vis versa. 

The Batu Caves timetable can be found here.

KL Sentral is a massive transport hub located in the central area of Kuala Lumpur. You can easily get here by bus, train or Grab taxi. How you get here will depend on your hotels location and how long you would like to travel. If you plan on catching the first train to Batu Caves like I did, I recommend catching a Grab. 

Once you are dropped at the main entrance, walk down the first set of stairs. Here you will see shops, convenience stores and fast-food stores. 

There are two ways you can get tickets to Batu Caves; from the kiosk or ticket machines. On the righthand side you will see the KTM kiosk where you can buy tickets directly from a person. Or on both sides you will see ticket machines, where you can also buy tickets. It is good to have cash for both options. 

I recommend buying a return ticket, as it saves you time and ease once you are at Batu Caves. A return ticket will cost you $5.20 MYR. 

Once you have your tickets, head to the KTM railway line (this is located to the right of McDonalds. Scan your ticket on the entry machines and head down the escalator to platform 5. Wait for your train and board, the final stop on this line is Batu Caves where you will get off. 

One you have arrived at the station, head up the escalator and exit on the left-hand side of the station (when looking back from where the train has come). You will need to scan your ticket again to leave the station. You will see a gate leading to the Batu caves on the left side. 

It’s very simple to return to KL Sentral. Enter the train station the same way you came, scan your return ticket and head down to the same platform you arrived on. Board the train and get off at KL Sentral! If you haven’t brought a return ticket, you can purchase one at the booth at the Batu Caves station. 

Tour 

If you are a bit worried about using public transport (which I wouldn’t be!), you can join a tour to Batu Caves. These tours will cost about $30 AUD and include a join in tour. Most do offer hotel pickup, but some you will have to meet at a meeting point. So I would recommend looking into this before booking. 

If you have a large group, it might be worth looking into a private car or Grab transfer to the Batu Caves. This will save you time and convivence, you can also book a grab for a certain time which means you will have smooth pick up.  

As this is a place of worship, it Is advised to dress appropriately. For Ladies, I recommend long pants or dress, with covered shoulders. For men, t-shirt and shorts below the knee is fine. It’s also advised to wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb 272 steps. 

I hope you found this guide helpful and any questions you may have, please ask them below! 

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The Batu Caves are one of the most popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur. This impressive landmark is the site of a Hindu temple and shrine, which attracts visitors and worshipers from all around the world. The Batu Caves has three main caves, its main attracting being the large statue of the Hindu God at the entrance and the 272 rainbow steps. 

This is a must see if you are in Kuala Lumpur and this blog post is going to give you all the information you need to plan your visit. 

This post contains affiliate links, I may receive a small compensation if you use them – don’t worry at no extra cost to you! Thank you for your ongoing support. 

Where are they located? 

The Batu Caves lie about 11km north from Kuala Lumpur. Located in a neighbourhood named ‘Batu Caves’. The neighbourhood is mainly residential, so there isn’t much to see in the surrounding area. However, there are a few shops and restaurants near the Batu Caves if you get hungry. 

What is the best time to go?

I recommend arriving as early as possible. This is such a popular landmark that it gets extremely busy throughout the day. If you are a photographer, I recommend coming first thing in the morning, either on the morning train or by Grab. The complex is almost empty from tourists unless there is a religious event or holiday happening. 

I arrived at 8am, and there were only a few people walking around. By 9.30 am when I had finished exploring the complex, it was already packed with tourists. 

Cost? 

The main section of Batu Caves is completely free to enter. Here you can walk up the rainbow steps and explore the two temples located inside the cave. If you wish to enter the Cave Villa or Ramayana Cave, this is going to come at an extra cost. 

How much time should I give myself? 

I spent 2 hours exploring the Batu Caves area and about 1.5 hours for all travel time. If you want to explore at a casual pace, I recommend 4-5 hours to complete this activity. 

How to Get There 

By Train 

The easiest way to get to the Batu caves is by train. This is the way I decided to get there, it’s cheap, quick, and easy. There is a train that runs directly to the Batu Caves from KL Sentral on the KTM Komuter line. The train runs from the stations Pulau Sebang – Batu Caves and vis versa. 

The Batu Caves timetable can be found here.

KL Sentral is a massive transport hub located in the central area of Kuala Lumpur. You can easily get here by bus, train or Grab taxi. How you get here will depend on your hotels location and how long you would like to travel. If you plan on catching the first train to Batu Caves like I did, I recommend catching a Grab. 

Once you are dropped at the main entrance, walk down the first set of stairs. Here you will see shops, convenience stores and fast-food stores. 

There are two ways you can get tickets to Batu Caves; from the kiosk or ticket machines. On the righthand side you will see the KTM kiosk where you can buy tickets directly from a person. Or on both sides you will see ticket machines, where you can also buy tickets. It is good to have cash for both options. 

I recommend buying a return ticket, as it saves you time and ease once you are at Batu Caves. A return ticket will cost you $5.20 MYR. 

Once you have your tickets, head to the KTM railway line (this is located to the right of McDonalds. Scan your ticket on the entry machines and head down the escalator to platform 5. Wait for your train and board, the final stop on this line is Batu Caves where you will get off. 

One you have arrived at the station, head up the escalator and exit on the left-hand side of the station (when looking back from where the train has come). You will need to scan your ticket again to leave the station. You will see a gate leading to the Batu caves on the left side. 

It’s very simple to return to KL Sentral. Enter the train station the same way you came, scan your return ticket and head down to the same platform you arrived on. Board the train and get off at KL Sentral! If you haven’t brought a return ticket, you can purchase one at the booth at the Batu Caves station. 

Tour 

If you are a bit worried about using public transport (which I wouldn’t be!), you can join a tour to Batu Caves. These tours will cost about $30 AUD and include a join in tour. Most do offer hotel pickup, but some you will have to meet at a meeting point. So I would recommend looking into this before booking. 

Car/Grab 

If you have a large group, it might be worth looking into a private car or Grab transfer to the Batu Caves. This will save you time and convivence, you can also book a grab for a certain time which means you will have smooth pick up.  

As this is a place of worship, it Is advised to dress appropriately. For Ladies, I recommend long pants or dress, with covered shoulders. For men, t-shirt and shorts below the knee is fine. It’s also advised to wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb 272 steps. 

I hope you found this guide helpful and any questions you may have, please ask them below! 

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