Savannakhet to Kampong Thom: Road Trip Guide

The drive from Savannakhet to Kampong Thom crosses the Mekong River and the Annamite Mountains, following National Road 9 (NR9) and then National Road 13 (NR13) south through Laos and Cambodia. This route covers approximately 480 kilometers and is a key overland connection between the two countries.

Historically, the section between Savannakhet and the border crossing at Dansavan was part of the Ho Chi Minh Trail network, now a peaceful landscape of limestone karsts and rural villages. The crossing itself is at the Lao Bao border gate (Laos) and Densavan (Cambodia), where drivers exchange currency and insurance.

Fuel stops are plentiful in larger towns: Savannakhet, Phin, and Lao Bao on the Lao side; then after the border, the first fuel station is in Champhone or Kulen, with more options in Kampong Thom. Diesel prices average 14,000 LAK per liter in Laos and 3,800 KHR in Cambodia (as of 2025).

• Border crossing formalities: Laos exit and Cambodia entry fees are around $2 and $30 respectively for a car, plus insurance costs about $10.
• Road quality: NR9 is well-paved but narrow in sections; NR13 is in good condition but watch for trucks.
• Specific road IDs: NR9 (Laos) and NR13 (Cambodia) are the main arteries.

Interesting stop: the Lao Bao Special Economic Zone, a duty-free area with retail outlets. For vehicle documentation, ensure you have the car's registration and an international driving permit.

For a deeper dive into discovering worthwhile stops, check out this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route's best stops Savannakhet to Kampong Thom include the limestone caves at Kong Lo (detour near Ban Nakhay or on the way? Actually, Kong Lo is off NR13, but the Pha That Sikhottabong stupa in Savannakhet is a must-see), and the pre-Angkorian temple of Phanom Rung? Not that. Wait, within the corridor: the That Ing Hang stupa, and the Xe Bang Fai River caves (if taking side trips). Actually, the iconic natural attraction is the Dong Na Tard Provincial Protected Area near Savannakhet, but along NR13, the Preah Khan Kampong Svay temple complex near Kampong Thom is a major highlight.

The climate alternates: the Lao side has a tropical monsoon climate with heavy rains from May to October; Cambodia is similarly hot, with the dry season from November to April offering clearer skies. Route aesthetics are best in December and January when the rice paddies are green.

Local commerce thrives in roadside markets like the one at Tha Khaek (if you detour) or more simply at Kulen, where farmers sell cashews and rubber. These informal stalls are great for items like kralan (sticky rice in bamboo) and local fruits.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites within reach: the Vat Phou temple complex in Champasak (about 180 km south of Savannakhet) is a notable detour, though not directly on the route. Also, the pre-Angkorian sites of Sambor Prei Kuk near Kampong Thom, a UNESCO-listed group of temples, is a must-see.

Road safety on NR13 has improved, but still exercise caution at night due to unlit sections. Speed limits are 90 km/h on highways. For breakdowns, emergency assistance numbers: 1191 in Laos; 119 in Cambodia (not guaranteed fast).

• Fatigue management: plan stops every 2-3 hours at towns like Kulen and Stung Treng (though Stung Treng is off route turn? Actually, Stung Treng is on NR13? It's a bit west but along the Mekong; better: stop at Kulen or Kampong Kdei).
• Rest zones: local cafes and petrol stations with WC are common.
• Family suitability: the route is safe for kids, but ensure vaccinations for malaria (for remote areas).
• Pet-friendly framework: many guesthouses in Kampong Thom accept pets; but not all border officials allow pets without a vet certificate. Check with the embassy beforehand.

Hidden off-route spots: the Pha Daeng and Tham Pha cave system near Wat Phou (but that's far). Actually, the Trapeang Srae archaeological site near Kulen is a quiet, unexplored temple ruin. Just after the border, the Sa Nguon waterfall is a refreshing break after the crossing.

Things to do between Savannakhet and Kampong Thom: visit the That Ing Hang temple, cross the Mekong at the Friendship Bridge, explore the Lao Bao market, and at the end, immerse in the pre-Angkorian ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk.

Is it worth driving Savannakhet to Kampong Thom? Yes, for the cultural layering: from Lao temples to Cambodian wilderness. But be prepared for a long day.