Pak Lai

Pak Lai is a district in southern Xaignabouli Province, located on the Mekong River. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (opened 2019) connects Pak Lai to Thailand's Nan Province. The town is an important border crossing point.

The climate is tropical monsoon. November to February is the best time to visit.

By Plane

Nearest airport is Nan (NNT) in Thailand, about 60 km west.

By Car / Road

Pak Lai is on Route 4, about 100 km south of Sayaboury (2 hr). The Friendship Bridge connects to Thailand. Buses run from Sayaboury and Luang Prabang.

Walking within town. Songthaews to the border.

• Mekong River — Wide river views at the border.

• Friendship Bridge — The crossing point to Thailand's Nan Province.

• Border market — Thai and Lao goods.

• Border crossing — Enter Thailand's Nan Province.

• Market shopping — Browse Thai products.

Lao and Thai restaurants.

Beerlao.

Basic guesthouse (40,000-50,000 LAK).

Thai goods at the border market.

• Sayaboury (100 km north, 2 hr) — Provincial capital.
• Nan, Thailand (60 km west) — Thai provincial capital.
• Botene (50 km southeast) — Rural district.