First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge

The First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge spans 1,170 meters across the Mekong River, connecting Nong Khai Province in Thailand with Vientiane Prefecture in Laos.

Australia provided 42 million dollars in development aid to construct this first bridge across the lower Mekong River, which opened on April 4, 1994.

The bridge marks the transition between left-side driving in Thailand and right-side driving in Laos, reflecting the distinct traffic patterns of both nations.

The structure includes two 3.5-meter-wide road lanes, two 1.5-meter-wide footpaths, and a central railway line with a gauge of 1,000 millimeters.

The border crossing operates from 6:00 to 22:00 daily, with shuttle buses transporting passengers between the Thai and Lao immigration checkpoints.

Location: Vientiane

Location: Mueang Nong Khai

Inception: April 8, 1994

Official opening: April 4, 1994

Length: 1,170 m

Part of: Asian Highway Network, Laos–Thailand border

GPS coordinates: 17.87833,102.71556

Latest update: November 28, 2025 14:29