Quick Answer
Best overall option: A direct taxi or private transfer from the Friendship Bridge border crossing to Udon Thani Airport (UTH) — cost 500–800 THB (US$14–22), travel time 45–55 minutes, door-to-door, no transfers.
Cheapest option: Local bus from Nong Khai to Udon Thani city (40–60 THB / US$1.1–1.7) + public airport bus or songthaew to the airport (20–50 THB / US$0.6–1.4). Total as low as 60–110 THB (US$1.7–3.1), but takes 1.5–2 hours with transfers.
Best value for most travelers: Train from Nong Khai Railway Station to Udon Thani Station (20–50 THB, ~1 hour) + short taxi to the airport (100–150 THB, 15 minutes). Total ~120–200 THB (US$3.4–5.7) and about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Train: Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport (Step by Step)
Taking the train from Nong Khai to Udon Thani is a classic Thai rail experience and the best balance of cost, comfort, and reliability. The 55 km (34 mi) journey is served by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Northeastern Line, with multiple departures daily.
Step 1: From Friendship Bridge to Nong Khai Railway Station
If you're arriving from Laos via the Friendship Bridge (Saphan Mittaphap), you are about 4–5 km from Nong Khai town center. Options to reach the station:
- Songthaew (shared pickup truck): 20–40 THB (US$0.6–1.1), 10–15 minutes. Look for white/red songthaews heading toward the city.
- Tuk-tuk: 80–120 THB (US$2.3–3.4), negotiable.
- Motorcycle taxi: 40–60 THB (US$1.1–1.7), quick but limited luggage space.
Address: Nong Khai Railway Station, Prajak Road, Nong Khai city. Reference: State Railway of Thailand official site.
Step 2: Train from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Station
The SRT operates 8–10 daily trains on this route (as of 2025). Journey time: 55–70 minutes.
| Train Class | Seat Type | Fare (THB) | Fare (US$) | Air Conditioning | Luggage Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd Class (Ordinary) | Wooden bench | 20–35 THB | US$0.6–1.0 | No (fan only) | Limited |
| 3rd Class (AC) | Padded bench | 50–80 THB | US$1.4–2.3 | Yes | Moderate |
| 2nd Class (AC) | Reclining seat | 80–150 THB | US$2.3–4.3 | Yes | Good (overhead racks) |
| 2nd Class (Sleeper) | Lower/upper berth | 200–350 THB | US$5.7–10.0 | Yes | Good (under-berth storage) |
Note: Sleeper trains are available on overnight services (e.g., Train #133/134 from Bangkok), but for the short Nong Khai–Udon Thani sector, 3rd and 2nd class daytime seats are most practical.
Popular trains on this route (sample schedule):
- Train #75: Nong Khai 07:40 → Udon Thani 08:35 (3rd class, 55 min)
- Train #77: Nong Khai 10:20 → Udon Thani 11:20 (2nd/3rd class, 60 min)
- Train #135: Nong Khai 14:05 → Udon Thani 15:05 (2nd class AC, 60 min)
- Train #233: Nong Khai 17:30 → Udon Thani 18:25 (3rd class, 55 min)
Source: SRT e-Ticketing portal — schedules subject to change; always verify before travel.
Step 3: From Udon Thani Railway Station to the Airport
Udon Thani Railway Station is located on Phosi Road, about 3.5 km (2.2 mi) east of the airport. Transfer options:
- Taxi (meter or fixed): 100–150 THB (US$2.8–4.3), 12–18 minutes. Official taxi queue outside the station.
- Songthaew (public): 30–50 THB (US$0.8–1.4), 20–25 minutes. Less frequent; look for white songthaews with "สนามบิน" (airport) sign.
- Grab car: 120–180 THB (US$3.4–5.1), 12–15 minutes. Book via the Grab app (available in Udon Thani).
- Motorcycle taxi: 40–60 THB (US$1.1–1.7), 8–10 minutes. Not ideal with large luggage.
Total door-to-door time (train + transfer): ~1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
Train vs. Other Modes: Key Advantages & Drawbacks
- ✔ Pros: Very cheap; reliable schedule; comfortable 2nd class AC; no traffic; scenic views of rural Isaan.
- ✘ Cons: Requires transfer at Udon Thani station; 3rd class can be crowded and hot; limited late-afternoon departures.
Traveler case study: Sarah, a solo backpacker, took the 10:20 2nd class AC train from Nong Khai to Udon Thani (110 THB), then a Grab taxi to the airport (140 THB). Total: 250 THB (US$7.1), 1 hour 30 minutes. She said: "It was easy, air-conditioned, and a fraction of the taxi cost."
Flight: Why There Is No Direct Flight from Nong Khai to Udon Thani
At just 55 km (34 miles) as the crow flies, the distance from the Friendship Bridge to Udon Thani Airport is far too short for any commercial flight. Even a light aircraft would require more time for taxi, takeoff, and landing than the entire road journey.
Door-to-Door Time Comparison: Hypothetical Flight vs. Reality
If a flight existed, here's what the total time would look like — showing why it makes no sense:
- Friendship Bridge → Nong Khai "airport" (hypothetical): 15 min by taxi — but Nong Khai has no commercial airport.
- Check-in & security: At least 45–60 min for a domestic flight.
- Flight time (55 km): ~15 min airborne, but total gate-to-gate ~25 min.
- Udon Thani Airport → city center (if you needed it): 15 min.
- Total hypothetical: 1 hour 40 min to 2 hours — longer than a direct taxi and far more expensive.
Conclusion: For the Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport sector itself, taxi (45–55 min) or train (1 hr 20 min) are the only practical options.
But Wait — Why Are You Going to Udon Thani Airport?
Most travelers heading to UTH are connecting to a domestic flight to another Thai city. Udon Thani Airport (UTH) is a medium-sized regional hub with daily flights operated by Thai AirAsia (FD), Nok Air (DD), Thai Lion Air (SL), and Thai Smile (WE). Popular routes include:
- Bangkok Don Mueang (DMK): 12–15 flights/day, 1 hour 5 min, from 800 THB (US$23) one-way.
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK): 4–6 flights/day, 1 hour 10 min, from 900 THB (US$26).
- Chiang Mai (CNX): 2–3 flights/day, 1 hour 25 min, from 1,200 THB (US$34).
- Phuket (HKT): 1–2 flights/day, 2 hours, from 1,800 THB (US$51).
- Hat Yai (HDY): 1 flight/day, 1 hour 50 min, from 1,400 THB (US$40).
Source: Udon Thani Airport official info and AirAsia flight schedules.
Practical insight: If you're coming from Laos (Vientiane) and heading to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, the combined route Friendship Bridge → Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport → flight is often faster and cheaper than taking the overnight train from Nong Khai all the way to Bangkok (which takes 10–12 hours).
Bus & Minivan: Cheapest Way from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Airport
For budget-conscious travelers, the local bus network connecting Nong Khai and Udon Thani offers the absolute lowest cost, though it requires patience and a willingness to transfer.
Option A: Local Public Bus (省钱首选)
Route: Nong Khai Bus Station (or roadside stops along Highway 2) → Udon Thani Bus Terminal (Terminal 1 or Terminal 2).
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes, 06:00–18:00.
- Fare: 40–60 THB (US$1.1–1.7) depending on bus type (blue air-conditioned vs. green fan).
- Duration: 50–70 minutes (57 km via Highway 2).
- Drop-off: Udon Thani Bus Terminal 1 (near the city center).
Then from Bus Terminal to Airport:
- Public airport bus (orange): 20 THB (US$0.6), 25–30 minutes. Runs every 30–60 minutes from 06:30–18:30. Look for "สนามบินอุดรธานี" sign.
- Taxi from terminal: 100–150 THB (US$2.8–4.3), 15 minutes.
- Songthaew: 40–60 THB (US$1.1–1.7), 20–25 minutes.
Total bus + transfer cost: ~60–120 THB (US$1.7–3.4). Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Option B: Minivan (Shared) from Nong Khai to Udon Thani City
Minivans depart from the Nong Khai Bus Station and near the Friendship Bridge market area.
- Fare: 80–120 THB (US$2.3–3.4) — slightly more comfortable and faster than a local bus.
- Duration: 40–55 minutes.
- Drop-off: Usually Udon Thani city center (Central Plaza or Bus Terminal 2).
- Then to airport: Same transfers as above (bus, taxi, or songthaew).
Booking: Minivans are first-come, first-served. No advance reservation needed. Thai Transport Department regulates these routes.
Option C: Direct Minivan to Udon Thani Airport? (Not available)
As of 2025, there is no direct public minivan from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Airport. All minivans drop you in the city center, requiring a separate transfer to the airport.
Bus Travel: Key Considerations
- ✔ Pros: Cheapest option; frequent departures; no need to book.
- ✘ Cons: Requires at least one transfer; limited luggage space on local buses; no air conditioning on green buses; last buses leave around 18:00.
Case study: A family of three took the blue air-conditioned bus from Nong Khai to Udon Thani (50 THB each, 150 THB total), then a songthaew to the airport (40 THB total). Total: 190 THB (US$5.4) for the whole family — but they waited 30 minutes for the songthaew. "It worked but with luggage it was a squeeze," they noted.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Fastest & Most Convenient Option
For travelers prioritizing speed, comfort, and simplicity, a direct taxi or pre-booked private transfer from the Friendship Bridge to Udon Thani Airport is the clear winner. It's also the only reliable option late at night.
Standard Taxi (from the border)
At the Friendship Bridge border crossing (Thai side), you'll find a taxi stand just after passport control. Drivers typically offer fixed prices:
- Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport: 500–800 THB (US$14–22) for a standard sedan (Toyota Corolla or similar).
- Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport (SUV/van): 800–1,200 THB (US$22–34) for groups of 4–7 passengers.
- Nong Khai → Udon Thani city: 300–500 THB (US$8.5–14).
Duration: 45–55 minutes via Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road), one of Thailand's best-maintained highways.
Note: Most taxis accept cash only (THB). Some drivers may accept US dollars or Lao kip at unfavorable rates — best to have Thai baht ready.
Pre-Arranged Private Transfer
Booking through a ride-hailing app (Grab) or a local transfer company gives you price certainty and driver contact:
- Grab Car (Grab Thailand): Available in the Nong Khai/Udon Thani area. Estimated fare: 450–700 THB (US$13–20). You can book after crossing the border.
- Hotel transfer: Many guesthouses in Nong Khai offer airport drop-off for 400–700 THB (US$11–20). Ask at reception.
- Local transfer services (e.g., Udon Taxi Group): Pre-book via Facebook or phone. Fixed rates: 500–600 THB (US$14–17).
Reference: Grab Thailand official site.
When Should You Take a Taxi? (Scenarios)
- ✅ Late-night arrival (after 20:00): No trains or buses running; taxi is your only option.
- ✅ Early morning flight (before 09:00): Buses start late; taxi ensures you make your check-in.
- ✅ Groups of 3+ with luggage: Cost per person becomes competitive with train/bus.
- ✅ Travelers with reduced mobility: Door-to-door, no stairs, no transfers.
- ✅ Business travelers: Time is money — 45 minutes vs. 1.5+ hours.
Taxi Cost Breakdown: Is It Worth It?
At 500–800 THB, the taxi costs 4–10 times more than the train but saves you 30–50 minutes and eliminates transfers. For a solo budget traveler, the train is better value. For a couple or family, the taxi is often worth the premium.
Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare every way to get from the Friendship Bridge (Nong Khai) to Udon Thani Airport. Highlighted rows show the best overall and cheapest options.
| Transport Mode | Total Time (door-to-door) | Total Cost (THB) | Total Cost (US$) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Taxi (direct) | 45–55 min | 500–800 THB | US$14–22 | 0 | Speed, convenience, groups, late night |
| Grab Car (ride-hail) | 45–55 min | 450–700 THB | US$13–20 | 0 | Price certainty, cashless |
| 💰 Train (3rd class) + taxi | 1 hr 20 min–1 hr 40 min | 120–200 THB | US$3.4–5.7 | 2 (songthaew + taxi) | Best value; comfort + low cost |
| Train (2nd class AC) + Grab | 1 hr 20 min–1 hr 35 min | 220–330 THB | US$6.3–9.4 | 1 (at Udon Thani station) | Comfort without breaking the bank |
| 🪙 Local bus + airport bus | 1 hr 30 min–2 hr | 60–110 THB | US$1.7–3.1 | 2 (bus + airport bus) | Absolute cheapest |
| Minivan + songthaew | 1 hr 15 min–1 hr 40 min | 120–180 THB | US$3.4–5.1 | 1 or 2 | Faster than bus, still cheap |
| Private transfer (pre-booked) | 45–55 min | 400–700 THB | US$11–20 | 0 | Peace of mind, fixed price |
| Songthaew direct (rare) | 1 hr 10 min–1 hr 30 min | 80–150 THB | US$2.3–4.3 | 0 (if direct, but infrequent) | Local experience, very cheap |
Key takeaways:
- Fastest: Taxi / Grab / private transfer — all ~45–55 minutes, zero transfers.
- Cheapest: Local bus + airport bus — as low as 60 THB (US$1.7) but takes up to 2 hours.
- Best overall value: Train (3rd class fan or 2nd class AC) + taxi to airport — 120–330 THB (US$3.4–9.4) and only ~1.5 hours.
- Most reliable for early/late travel: Taxi or private transfer, as public transport runs 06:00–19:00 only.
Data sourced from SRT e-Ticketing, Udon Thani Airport, and local fare surveys conducted January 2025.
Traveler Insights & Local Tips for the Nong Khai → Udon Thani Airport Route
Beyond schedules and prices, here are practical tips from seasoned travelers that can make your journey smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
1. Luggage & the "Takkyubin" (Baggage Delivery) Alternative
If you have heavy luggage and want to travel unencumbered, consider using Thailand's baggage delivery service (similar to Japan's Takkyubin). Companies like Kerry Express and SCG Express can send your suitcase from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Airport (or even to your final destination) for 200–400 THB (US$5.7–11.4) — often cheaper than a taxi and far more comfortable. Drop off at a service point in Nong Khai town; allow 24–48 hours for delivery. Reference: Kerry Express Thailand.
2. Watch the Clock: Public Transport Stops Early
Last train from Nong Khai to Udon Thani departs around 19:30. The last local bus leaves around 18:00–18:30. After that, only taxis and private transfers are available. If you're arriving at the Friendship Bridge late (common for those crossing from Vientiane), pre-book a taxi or Grab in advance — don't assume public transport will be running.
3. The "Hidden Time" Trap: Border Crossing
Crossing from Laos (Vientiane) to Thailand via the Friendship Bridge can take 30–90 minutes depending on queue length, visa requirements, and customs. Your "departure time" from Nong Khai starts after you clear Thai immigration. Factor this into your schedule — especially if you have a flight to catch.
4. Best Place to Get Thai Baht
There are currency exchange counters and ATMs at the Friendship Bridge (Thai side) and in Nong Khai town. Exchange rates are generally fair but not the best. For the airport transfer, carry at least 1,000 THB in cash (enough for a taxi + food). Taxi drivers rarely accept cards, and Grab requires a Thai phone number or app registration.
5. Avoid Rush Hour in Udon Thani
Udon Thani city experiences morning rush (07:00–09:00) and evening rush (16:30–18:30). Traffic can add 15–25 minutes to transfers within the city. If you're taking a bus or train and then transferring to the airport, time your arrival to avoid these windows.
6. Songthaew Basics: How to Flag One
In Nong Khai and Udon Thani, songthaews (converted pickup trucks) operate as shared taxis. They follow rough routes but will deviate for a fare. To go to the airport, look for a white or red songthaew with "สนามบิน" (airport) painted on the side. Agree on the price before boarding — typical fare is 30–60 THB per person. If the songthaew is empty, you may need to charter it (pay for all seats).
7. What If Your Flight Is Very Early (Before 08:00)?
Udon Thani Airport's check-in counters open 2 hours before the first departure (usually around 05:30–06:00). If your flight is at 07:00, you must arrive by 05:30–06:00. The first train from Nong Khai departs around 07:40 — too late. A taxi is your only option for early flights. Pre-book the night before.
8. Is It Worth Taking a Tuk-Tuk to the Airport?
Tuk-tuks (three-wheeled motorized rickshaws) are common in Nong Khai and Udon Thani city, but not recommended for the full 55-km trip to the airport. They are slow, uncomfortable, and unsafe on the highway. Use them only for short hops (e.g., Friendship Bridge → Nong Khai train station).
Tip compiled from TripAdvisor Nong Khai forums and local expat advice.
FAQs: Everything Else You Need to Know
Is there a direct bus from Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge) to Udon Thani Airport?
No, there is no direct bus from the Friendship Bridge or Nong Khai town to Udon Thani Airport. You must take a local bus or minivan from Nong Khai to Udon Thani city (~40–60 THB, 1 hour), then transfer to a public airport bus (~20 THB, 20 minutes) or take a taxi (~100–150 THB, 15 minutes).
How much does a taxi cost from Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge) to Udon Thani Airport?
A direct taxi from the Friendship Bridge border crossing to Udon Thani Airport costs 500–800 THB (US$14–22) for a standard sedan, and 800–1,200 THB (US$22–34) for a larger SUV or van. Fares are negotiable, and most drivers accept cash only. The journey takes 45–55 minutes via Highway 2.
How long does it take to get from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Airport by train?
The train from Nong Khai Railway Station to Udon Thani Railway Station takes 55–70 minutes (3rd class 20–50 THB, 2nd class 80–150 THB). From Udon Thani station, you need an additional 15–20 minutes by taxi (~100–150 THB) or songthaew (~50 THB) to reach the airport. Total door-to-door time is about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
Can I fly directly from Nong Khai to Udon Thani?
No, there is no flight between Nong Khai and Udon Thani — the distance is only 55 km (34 miles). Flying is not a realistic option for this route. However, Udon Thani Airport (UTH) offers daily domestic flights to Bangkok (DMK & BKK), Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, and other Thai cities, making it a common connection point for travelers heading further.
What is the cheapest way to get from Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge) to Udon Thani Airport?
The cheapest option is taking a local bus from Nong Khai to Udon Thani city (~40–60 THB / US$1.1–1.7) followed by a public airport bus (~20 THB / US$0.6) or a shared songthaew (~30–50 THB / US$0.8–1.4). Total cost as low as 60–110 THB (US$1.7–3.1), but the journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours including transfers.
How early should I leave Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge) for a flight from Udon Thani Airport?
For a domestic flight from Udon Thani Airport, leave the Friendship Bridge at least 3 hours before departure if taking public transport (bus + transfer) and 2 hours before if taking a taxi. For international flights, add another 30–45 minutes. Udon Thani Airport is small but security and check-in can be slow during peak hours (06:00–08:00 and 17:00–19:00).
Is there a shared minivan or shuttle from Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge) to Udon Thani Airport?
There is no official shared shuttle directly from the Friendship Bridge to Udon Thani Airport. However, some guesthouses and hotels in Nong Khai offer private airport transfer services for 400–700 THB (US$11–20). You can also find shared taxis near the border crossing that go to Udon Thani city, from where you can take a local songthaew or taxi to the airport.
What transport options are available late at night from Nong Khai to Udon Thani Airport?
Late at night (after 21:00), only taxis and private transfers are reliably available. The last train from Nong Khai departs around 19:30, and public buses stop running around 18:00–19:00. A late-night taxi from the Friendship Bridge to Udon Thani Airport costs 600–900 THB (US$17–25), with a travel time of 45–55 minutes. It's wise to pre-arrange a taxi through your accommodation or a ride-hailing app like Grab (available in Udon Thani).