Travel the Thai Train over the Mekong to Laos!

A train service inaugurated in 2009 between the Kingdoms of Thailand and Laos, crossing the Mekong River over the "Friendship Bridge". For a small fare in Thai Baht, or the equivalent amount in Laotian Kip, passengers will be ferried between Nong Khai Station in Thailand and Thanaleng Rail Station in Laos.
We have taken the train in January 2010 both ways, documented this rail service and the Mekong river crossing for you on the return leg!

Luck was on our side, when the low sun reflected in the mighty Asian stream, that means so much to the people along it's shores. This train is highly recommendable to travelers, who want to avoid the touts and hustlers at the bridge entrance in Laos itself. Read our full report with additional photos on http://www.siampedia.org! Thanaleng is the closest point to Vientiane. Twice daily departures at each station:

Nong Khai - Thanaleng 09:30 AM, Thanaleng - Nong Khai 10:30 AM
Nong Khai - Thanaleng 04:00 PM, Thanaleng - Nong Khai 05:00 AM

Trip duration is 15 minutes for the 6 KM journey. A/C wagons are available at 50 Baht each way, non A/C are 20 Baht.