Nakhon Pathom to Long Xuyen: Road Trip Guide

Start in Nakhon Pathom, home to the world's tallest stupa, Phra Pathommachedi, which stands 120 meters high.

The journey crosses two borders and roughly 1,400 kilometers, typically taking 3 to 4 days of driving.

Rice paddies dominate the Thai plains; Cambodia's landscape includes Tonle Sap's floodplain and the Mekong's braided channels.

Near Phnom Penh, the UNESCO-listed temple complex of Koh Ker is a worthwhile detour.

• Thailand: sugarcane and orchards along the route.
• Cambodia: floating villages near Phnom Penh.
• Vietnam: Mekong Delta's green orchards and canals.
• Local markets: Nakhon Pathom's food market, Siem Reap's Old Market, Long Xuyen's floating market.

Thai roads are well-maintained; Cambodia's highways improved but some stretches are rough; Vietnam's roads are decent.

Rest stops: Mitraphap (Thailand), Kampong Speu (Cambodia), Chau Doc (Vietnam).

• Pet-friendly hotels exist in major cities; check for pet policies.
• Family stops: Safari World near Bangkok, Sesok Kola Temple, Long Xuyen's Xẻo Quýt forest.
• Fatigue management: drive 2 hours, stop 15 minutes; caffeine breaks at roadside cafes.
• Hidden gems: Kao Yai National Park, Prey Veng's bird sanctuary, Tịnh Biên's Sam Mountain.

Major highways include Thailand's Route 1 (Phahonyothin), Cambodia's National Road 5 and 6, and Vietnam's QL91.

Border crossings: Aranyaprathet–Poipet and Phnom Penh–Chau Doc (Tinh Bien).

• Fuel stops are frequent in Thai cities; Cambodia has fewer stations, so fill up in Poipet.
• Vietnam fuel costs about 20,000 VND/liter (2025).
• Overall fuel budget: $150–200 for a sedan.
• Tolls: Thailand expressways (~$20), Cambodia tolls (~$10), Vietnam tolls (~$15).