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Boten – Mohan

The Laos–China railway border: international trains run Vientiane–Kunming with immigration at Boten and Mohan.

All border crossings · Laos ⇄ China · Rail, Road · checked 2026-09

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The two posts

Hours: Rail formalities on the train's timetable; the road post about 08:00–17:00 (check)

Entering Laos

Boten · Luang Namtha province

Visa on arrival
Yes
E-visa accepted here
Check

Visa on arrival at most international posts (US$ cash, photo); the Laos e-visa only at listed posts. (check)

Entering China

Mohan · Mengla, Yunnan

Visa on arrival
No
E-visa accepted here
No

No visa on arrival for most passports. A visa in advance, or a visa-free or transit-visa-free scheme if your passport and this port are covered. (check)

Visa answers are for most Western passports and change often. Check yours on entry check and the official e-visa site; for e-visas, the post must be on the country's list of accepted ports.

Getting across

  • International train Vientiane or Luang Prabang → Kunming, border checks at Boten and Mohan (buy on the LCR Ticket app or at stations; check).
  • Buses Luang Namtha → Boten, then a taxi or walk to the post.

Scams and traps

  • Resellers of 'sold-out' train tickets at a mark-up: use the official app or station.
  • Unofficial changers at Boten.

Tips

  • Tickets release a few days ahead and sell out at holidays: book as soon as they open.
  • Bring your passport details exactly as printed; the name must match the ticket.

Nearest places

Everything marked check, and every hour and fee, needs confirming before you travel: posts close for holidays, disputes and roadworks with little notice. Written from Voykit's own notes; checked 2026-09.