Lao Cai train station is the final stop on the Hanoi – Lao Cai railway line and plays a vital role in passenger transport and goods trading. At the same time, it serves as the main gateway welcoming travelers to the famous tourist destinations in the “land of mist” – Sapa. Lily’s Travel will show you how to get the best price ticket and the popular ways to reach Lao Cai train station.
How to get to Lao Cai train station
To reach Lao Cai Station, you can take a train from Hanoi Station such as: Trains SP1, SP3, and SP7 are best choices among travelers heading from Hanoi to Lao Cai, especially for those planning to explore Sapa.
Train SP4 departs daily at 9:30 PM, stopping at other stations includes: Lao Cai, Pho Lu, Bao Ha, Lang Khay, Trai Hut, Mau A, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Viet Tri, Vinh Yen, Dong Anh, Yen Vien, Gia Lam, and Hanoi.
Or the train SP8 departs daily at 12:05 PM, with stops at Lao Cai, Pho Lu, Bao Ha, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Phuc Yen, Gia Lam, and Hanoi. It is expected to arrive at Hanoi Station at 7:37 PM the same day.
Lao Cai train station overview
Lao Cai train station is a first-class international rail hub on the Hanoi – Lao Cai – Kunming line. It is located in Pho Moi Ward, Lao Cai City, about 35 km from the center of Sapa.
Built by the French between 1903 and 1936, the station was taken over, restored, and put into service by the Vietnamese government after the country’s reunification in 1954 to support socialist construction in the North.
Today, Lao Cai train station is one of six international railway gateways, facilitating import–export trade and freight exchange between Vietnam and China. It also serves as a key entry point for travelers heading to Sapa’s famous tourist destinations.
Train schedule and ticket information
Lao Cai Station currently operates a railway route connecting Lao Cai Station to Hanoi Station and vice versa. The following fixed train schedules are available daily:
Train route: Lao Cai Station – Hanoi Station
Train route: Lao Cai Station – Hanoi Station
Train SP4 departs at 9:30 PM daily, passing through the following stations: Lao Cai, Pho Lu, Bao Ha, Lang Khay, Trai Hut, Mau A, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Viet Tri, Vinh Yen, Dong Anh, Yen Vien, Gia Lam, and Hanoi. The train will arrive at Hanoi Station at 5:35 AM the next morning.
Train SP8 departs at 12:05 PM daily, stopping at Lao Cai, Pho Lu, Bao Ha, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Phuc Yen, Gia Lam, and Hanoi. It is scheduled to arrive at Hanoi Station at 7:37 PM the same day.
Train route: Hanoi Station – Lao Cai Station
Train SP3 departs at 10:00 PM daily, stopping at the following stations: Hanoi, Gia Lam, Yen Vien, Dong Anh, Vinh Yen, Viet Tri, Phu Tho, Yen Bai, Mau A, Bao Ha, Pho Lu, and Lao Cai. The train is expected to arrive at Lao Cai Station at 5:55 AM the next morning.
Train SP7 departs at 10:40 PM daily, with stops at: Hanoi, Gia Lam, Phuc Yen, Yen Bai, Bao Ha, Pho Lu, and Lao Cai. It is scheduled to arrive at Lao Cai Station at 6:25 AM the next morning.
Price and how to book tickets
From Hanoi, you can go on two main Lao Cai trains
- Pirces: From Hanoi, you can go on two main Lao Cai trains: SP3 and SP7. They also stop at Lao Cai train station. The prices is from 441,000 VND to 619.000 VND (not include VAT), depend on the kinds cabin you choose. For example, the seat type 1 st Floor in 4 – berth cabin is 441,000 VND but the 1st Floor in 4-Berth Luxury Cabin has the price 619,000 VND. You can buy train tickets online via the official Vietnam Railways website or through reputable ticket agents. Tickets are also available at Hanoi Railway Station ticket counters. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
- Services and Amenities at Lao Cai Train Station: To attack more visitors traveling to Lao Cai on train, Lao Cai Train Station is equipped with a variety of facilities and services designed to improve the travel experience such as: the waiting lounge, restrooms, nearby food stalls, and parking areas.
- Essential Amenities
- Ticket Counters: Allways available to buy train tickets departing from Lao Cai and return to Hanoi.
- Waiting Lounge: A comfortable space for you to wait even in a long time before boarding.
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms located within the station.
- Food Stalls: Nearby vendors offer quick meals and refreshments.
- Parking: The space is available for pick-up and drop-off by personal vehicles.
- Additional Services:
- Baggage Storage: Secure storage for your luggage if you want to explore Lao Cai before go to Sapa.
- Travel Assistance: Staff members will help book taxis, buses, or private vehicles to Sapa.
- ATMs: You can exchange conveniently.
As the final stop on the Hanoi – Lao Cai railway line, Lao Cai train station serves as the main gateway to Sapa. From the station, you can choose from various transport options including taxis, tourist cars, and rent motorbike.
Read more: How to get to Quan Lan Island if you stay in Hanoi
Border travel: Lao Cai train station and the gateway to China
Lao Cai train station is a crucial stopover for passengers heading to the Lao Cai-Hekou border crossing, which serves as the entrance to China. Located in Lao Cai, Vietnam, close to the Chinese border, the station serves as the final destination on the Hanoi-Lao Cai railway line.
From the station to the border crossing, travelers can easily take a motorbike taxi or taxi to Hekou, China.
How to Travel to the Border: The trip to the border crossing from Lao Cai Train Station takes about three kilometers.
- Transportation Options:
- A taxi costs about 50,000 VND.
- “Xe Om” motorbike taxi: roughly VND 25,000.
The border crossing is open daily from 7 am to 10 pm. Vietnam time (China is one hour ahead).
- Border Crossing and Beyond: Location: A road bridge and a rail bridge across the Red River divide the border from Vietnam.
- Proceeding: The new bus stop in Hekou, China, is roughly 6 kilometers away from the border checkpoint. For Kunming, regular buses—including sleeper buses—depart.
- Extra Details:
- Freight Trains: The railway line is going to continue to China even if passenger trains do not yet reach the border.Sapa: Lao Cai train station is the best stopover to go to Sapa
Lao Cai is being developed as a major border gate economic zone with the goal of promoting trade and economic interaction between China and Vietnam.
Nearby attractions and places to visit from Lao Cai train station
Lao Cai has so many scenic spots and popular tourist destinations, giving you the unforgettable experiences. Below are some of the top attractions in Lao Cai you might want to explore:
1. Sapa City
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range and just take you a few hours by train from Hanoi, Sapa is a destination you can visit at any time of the year.
Known as the “city in the mist”, Sapa offers visitors a wide range of captivating attractions from ancient villages and breathtaking mountains and valleys to impressive modern architectural landmarks.
If you choose to explore Sapa, don’t miss out on these must-visit destinations:
- Sapa Stone Church: Located right in the centre of Sapa, this Gothic-style church stands as the symbole of the a historical landmark. Its shows the beauty setting against the backdrop of the Northwest mountains. It makes it not only a meaningful stopover but also a favorite spot to take the Instagram photos.
- Sun Plaza: A commercial complex including restaurants and also serves as the departure station for the Muong Hoa mountain train. Sun Plaza is famous for its classic French-inspired architecture, exuding elegance and grandeur—an ideal backdrop for striking photos.
- Cat Cat Village: Just about 2 km from the town center, Cat Cat Village is one of the most transporting destination helping you back to the rustic charm of H’mong culture. You can try on colorful traditional costumes and explore the rich customs and cultural heritage preserved by the local people.
2. Fansipan Peak
Known as the “Rooftop of Indochina”, Fansipan is the must-visit destination. Located above over 3,000 meters from the sea, Fansipan Peak offers the panoramic views of the majestic Northwest mountains and forests. The peak is also famous for its romantic sea of clouds that is the perfect stop for cloud-hunters and nature lovers alike.
3. O Quy Ho Pass
O Quy Ho Pass is one of four great mountain passes in Vietnam so this pass is a must-visit destination when traveling to Lao Cai. With over 50 kilometers length, this mountain route features steep slopes and sharp curves with towering cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other that can offer both thrilling adventure and stunning natural scenery for vistors, especially who love trekking.
From the top of this pass, you can enjoy a panoramic view of vast white clouds with the majestic and untouched mountain landscape. Known as “the best cloud hunting spot” in Lao Cai, the pass is also a perfect place to check in and admire the romantic seasonal wildflowers of the Northwest, such as climbing roses, peach blossoms, and rhododendrons.
4. Y Ty Mountain
Y Ty Mountain is perched at an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level and backed by the legendary Nhiu Co San mountain range, is an alluring destination for nature lovers and those seeking to explore th beaten path landscapes.
You will be suprised by the pristine and majestic mountain landscapes along with endless stretches of lush green terraced rice fields. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Y Ty Mountain is also home to the rich cultural heritage of ethnic groups such as the H’Mong and Ha Nhi.
The culture of the ethnic group are reflected from their unique customs such as traditional earthen-walled houses, simple way of life. Notably, Y Ty Mountain is also one of the most stunning cloud-hunting spots in Lao Cai.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Lao Cai Train Station
There are some tips for you when arriving Lao Cai train station:
- Before departure
- Double-check your train’s departure time, train code, and seat type either on your ticket.
- Be at the station at least 30 minutes before departurement time for check-in, luggage handling (if any) and your seat information.
- Carry personal identification such as your national ID card or citizen ID for verification when needed.
- Pay attention at the train times, boarding platforms, and train numbers to get the right seat.
- The station has it own rules, please follow to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
- If you need assistance, please ask station staff for help.
- On the train
- Check your seat number to make sure you sit right seat.
- Place your luggage neatly on the overhead rack or under your seat to avoid blocking aisles.
- Pleade do not litter to keep the train clean.
- Other advice
- Lao Cai’s climate varies by season, check the weather on the day you go to make sure that your dress are appropriately for the current weather.
- From Lao Cai Station, you can get to Sapa by taxi, bus, or Xe Om.
- Don’t miss out on Lao Cai famous dishes like Thang Co (horse meat stew) or Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall) salmon.
- Visit popular destinations such as Sapa, Mount Fansipan, Heaven’s Gate, and Silver Waterfall.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lao Cai Train Station
If planning a journey to Lao Cai or onward to Sapa, you will allways has a few questions about the train station and travel experience. Below are some of the most common inquiries from travelers. Hope that this section aims to help you feel more confident and prepared for your trip.
Is Lao Cai the last stop on the Hanoi – Lao Cai route?
Lao Cai Station is the final stop on the Hanoi – Lao Cai railway line. Located near the Vietnam–China border, it serves as both a major passenger hub and a key freight terminal. Many tourists choose the station like the gateway for both tourism and cross-border trade.
Are there night trains available?
There are night trains available on the Hanoi – Lao Cai route. Popular overnight options include the SP3 and SP7 trains, which depart from Hanoi in the late evening and arrive in Lao Cai early the next morning. If you want to save time, you can choose these option but Lily’s Travel advices you plan time to book hotel or taxi on time. The long time on the train will make you exhausted.
Can I store luggage at the station?
Lao Cai train station offers baggage storage services that so convenient for you to secure your luggage while spending time to explore the area or wait for transport to Sapa.
Lao Cai train station is a best choice to be the stat spot for your journey to Lao Cai or anywhere in the north of Vietnam. With its essential services, travel connections, and strategic location, the station makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Read more: Hanoi to Lao Cai Train: The low-speed journey to enjoy…
