Home » Travel Guider » Vietnam Travel » Lao Cai Travel » Sapa Travel » How Far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train for Sapa Tours?

How Far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train for Sapa Tours?

How far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours? This is not just a trip that you go there & come back – it’s an access to experience the breathtaking scenery and cultural depth of Sapa Tours. The railway experience is surreal with the beauty outside, cozy cabins and a bit of an adventure. This guide will help you perfect the Hanoi to Lao Cai by train part of your Sapa adventure whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor!

Detailed Route Information for the Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

From Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours

From Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours

Departure and Arrival Points

The engine of your journey, is Hanoi Railway Station in the heart of Vietnam’s capital. The train will traverse multiple quaint towns and cities while leaving Hanoi, before finally stopping at the beautiful Lao Cai Station. Following this, go on a 5-hour bus or taxi Sapa.

Major Stops Along the Way

You’ll get many stops at picturesque locations on the way from Hanoi to Lao Cai via train like Vinh Phuc, Phu Tho and Yen Bai. Every pause point views varied vistas and regional life variety in Vietnam. You see, these stops are more than the rest; they give you insight into the ways of a country.

Scenic Views and Experiences During the Journey

While traveling from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train, the scenery outside will keep changing thereby mesmerizing you. From the urban cityscapes of Hanoi, to tranquil countryside and up into towering mountains near Lao Cai – this route is a visual delight. Be sure to bring your camera because you will want to record every second of this journey!

How Far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train for Sapa Tours?

Exact Distance of Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

How far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours? After that, the train travels 296 kilometers (around 184 miles). The best Sapa train is created to deliver a great view on a long and private sleep with best-condition service., Fairly speaking this type of transportation has become an unbeaten choice by its convenience.

Comparison with Other Transportation Methods

Traveling from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train is a better choice than buses, cars and other modes of transport. You can also travel to Lao Cai by bus or car but the night train ride grants you luxury and spectacular views. The train is generally smoother and more comfortable than the sometimes bumpy, crowded buses.

Travel Time for the Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

You can reach Lao Cai from Hanoi by train which takes around 7-8 hours depending on the type of sleeping berth you choose. During this overnight journey, you will stay onboard sleeping soundly in your cabin and wake up fresh for Sapa! The travel time is similar, although it may vary postal on the train type and climatic conditions.

Factors Affecting Travel Time

Trains are different in speed and schedule. Like the SP1 train for reaching faster among all. Travel time can likewise be influenced a bit by the weather, especially during the rainy season but then nothing to worry about as all train stations are equipped with fireplaces.

Comparison with Travel Time by Bus or Car

If you go by train, the traveling time from Hanoi to Lao Cai will be slower a little than by using buses or cars. But travel to the mountains takes longer, and is time well spent for a piece of scenery. Trains are a little slower than buses and cars, but this is not your ordinary destination to get from one place to another.

Types of Trains and Classes Available for Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

See beautiful scenery from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours

See beautiful scenery from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours

Overview of Train Services on the Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train Route

There are several reputable train services to get you from Hanoi to Lao Cai when planning your trip. SP1, SP3 & SP7 trains are the most common alternatives. All those services are oriented to providing a distinctive type of Journey for every budget and preference.

  • SP1 Train:  Running overnight, the TP1 leaves from Hanoi in time for you to get a good night’s rest and arrive in Lao Cai bright and early ahead of your day trip to Sapa.
  • SP3 Train: Similar to the SP1, this train also operates overnight but is often seen as slightly more upmarket with better accommodations and standards of service.
  • SP7 Train: This train has the same schedule but it is usually less crowded, making for a more serene trip.

These trains are operated by Vietnam Railways and several private companies, each striving to provide the best possible service.

Train Classes and Amenities for the Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

The train from Hanoi to Lao Cai has several classes so that everyone can experience one of the most scenic trips in Vietnam – regardless if you are a budget-conscious backpacker or looking for luxury. Let’s break down the options:

  • Soft Seat: daytime travel with legroom They usually are padded seats that sometimes have reclining ability
  • Hard Seat: Inexpensive and somewhat spartan, this option offers an affordable but roomy travel experience.
  • Soft Sleeper Cabin: This is the best class with only soft beds in your private cabin. Also, they come with 4 beds and are great for families or groups going to the mountain together.
  • Hard Sleeper Cabin: Comfort-wise maybe a little less plush than the soft sleeper cabin, in this type of cabin you have a beds beda which is surely budget-friendly and reliable.

Amenities: Varies depending on class, including air-conditioning; clean bedding; reading lights and power outlets. Aboard some trains you can dine on local Vietnamese dishes along the way.

Pricing for Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train Tickets

Pricing for the Hanoi to Lao Cai by train tickets varies based on the class and the time of booking. Here’s a general idea of the price ranges:

  • Soft Seat: Approximately $10 to $15 USD.
  • Hard Seat: Around $8 to $12 USD.
  • Soft Sleeper Cabin: Between $30 to $50 USD.
  • Hard Sleeper Cabin: Generally $20 to $35 USD.

Tips for Getting the Best Deals

  • Book Early: Trains are busy, especially if you take a trip during the peak season. Advanced bookings mean better availability and often cheaper prices as well.
  • Travel Off-Peak: During the low season, prices are generally lower. Consider visiting during these days If you are somewhat versatile with your journey dates.
  • Check Multiple Sources: Look around at the different places you can book a ticket through for the best deals be sure to include Vietnam Railways’ official website as most booking platforms have a markup price.

Booking Tickets for Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

This Hanoi to Lao Cai train route is the perfect choice

This Hanoi to Lao Cai train route is the perfect choice

How to Book Tickets for Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

There are several convenient ways to book your tickets:

  • Online Booking: This is best meant for searching and getting the facility You can find easy platforms to compare prices and book tickets (Vietnam Railways, Baolau or 12Go Asia) – in English. These sites usually have lots of information about the train schedules and classes.
  • Booking at the Station: This is the conventional way to purchase your Vietnam Railways tickets directly from Hanoi Railway Station. This will enable you to ask questions and the staff answer on hand immediate
  • Travel Agencies: If you prefer to book train tickets through the elleseal, here are some addresses and travel agencies in Vietnam that offer this service. They can help you pick up the best rides and sometimes even provide a full package of transfer from/to stations.

Best Times to Book Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train Tickets

To secure the best tickets for the Hanoi to Lao Cai by train, timing is everything:

  • Peak Seasons: Trains can get very crowded during holiday periods such as Tet (Lunar New Year) and the summer months. During these times it is going to be necessary for you to book up to several weeks in advance so that means no, sorry a last minute gift card and flowers just won’t cut the mustard.
  • Off-Peak Seasons: Travel is minimal in the off-peak seasons of spring and fall. A couple of days to a week before should be okay!

Tips for Booking During Holidays:

  • Book Early: This means that more people are traveling over the holidays, which raises demand and prices; therefore you will want to book your holiday flights as early as possible! This is why you want to make sure that you book your seat early.
  • Be Flexible: Try to plan your travel on nonpeak days.

Travel Tips and Recommendations for Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

What to Pack for the Train Journey

Packing right is the first step to a delightful journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train. Here’s your ultimate packing checklist:

  • Comfortable Clothing: I recommend wearing comfortable fabrics (always be respectful and modest), and soft, breathable materials. Because you are going to be on the train for some time and comfort is your friend.
  • Layers: It can be quite cold on trains, especially at night. Bring a lightweight sweater or jacket.
  • Essentials: Don’t forget your travel documents, tickets, a fully charged phone, and a portable charger.
  • Snacks and Water: there is food on the train, but some snacks you love or a bottle of water in your purse can make all the difference.
  • Entertainment: along with a good book, download some movies or prepare an in-car travel playlist. Headphones are a must!
  • Personal Care Items: Toothbrush and toothpaste, face wipes (I like to feel fresh), also pack any personal medication in this same bag.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Traveling from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train is generally safe, but a few precautions can make your trip even smoother:

  • Keep Your Belongings Secure: Protect your baggage with a small lock and keep valuables in hand.
  • Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when the train makes stops.
  • Follow Train Rules: Pay attention to announcements and respect the train staff’s instructions.

Onboard Experience of Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

Food and Beverage Options

Great news for food lovers! The journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train offers various food and beverage options:

  • Onboard Dining: Trains can include a dining car, with meals included in the ticket or available for purchase. You can gobble down local tasty dishes such as pho, and banh mi on the train itself.
  • Snacks: Food vendors snacking and drinking snacks. Great way to sample some local options.
  • Bring Your Own: Whether you have dietary restrictions, or simply want to eat food prepared from home (sometimes the best prepared meals), bringing your own is safe and smart.

Entertainment and Activities

Keeping entertained on your journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train is easy:

  • Watch the Scenery: The scenery is stunning. Watch out for the jungles and villages as you go by.
  • Read a Book:  A great read can cut through hours of sitting around doing nothing.
  • Chat with Fellow Travelers: Get to know travelers like you! We fellow travelers can give the best tips and share great stories.
  • Games and Music: Download games or music before you step on board for a bit of light entertainment.

Health and Comfort on Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train

The train will pass through many towns and cities

The train will pass through many towns and cities

Tips for a Comfortable Journey

Comfort is crucial when traveling from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train. Here’s how to ensure you stay comfy:

  • Choose the Right Seat: Soft sleeper cabins are the most comfortable for overnight travel.
  • Use a Travel Pillow: A nice neck pillow can save you many a headache.
  • Stay Hydrated: have some fun but watch the caffeine and alcohol

Managing Motion Sickness and Other Travel-Related Issues

Not everyone is accustomed to train travel, but don’t worry:

  • Motion Sickness: Sitting near the middle of a moving train and staring outside is your best bet if you suffer from motion sickness. Bring medication if needed.
  • Fresh Air: Step out at stops to get some fresh air and stretch your legs.
  • Stay Relaxed: Do some deep breathing or listen to relaxing music.

Conclusion

How far from Hanoi to Lao Cai by train for Sapa Tours? Taking a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai is not merely moving between two cities, but also an exciting experience on your Sapa Tours journey. The seats are comfortable, the food is yummy and it also talks about fantastic scenery. Keep a few simple tips in mind while packing your bags which can help you sail smoothly through this journey known as life. This Hanoi to Lao Cai train route is perfect if you need a little comfort or even an adventure. The sun rises, revealing spectacular scenes of Northern Vietnam from the window seat and you are almost at Sapa. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Sapa to and to book Sapa Tours at the best prices.

Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Town
Sapa Town
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Church in Sapa
Church in Sapa
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa tours by Car
Sapa tours by Car
Sapa Town
Sapa Town
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa Town
Sapa Rice Terraces
Church in Sapa
Sapa Trekking
Sapa Rice Terraces
Sapa tours by Car
Sapa Town
Sapa Trekking

 Sapa Tours offers travelers three days of Sapa easy trekking to explore the most iconic attractiveness of Sapa such as rice terraces, lush-green valleys, imposing mountains rows of mountains, the cultural diversity of ethnic minority groups such like Hmong, Dzay, Tay, Red Dzao people. We take part in athletic activities as easy trekking to visit the rustic hill tribe villages via the stunning rice terraces, to meet at the friendly communication with local ethnic people, enjoy the delicious local foods. For the most friendly Sapa Vietnam Tour Consultancy, please email us at please email:sapatour@impresstravel.com or contact the hotline (Whatsapp, Zalo, Viber, Skype) at +84.912 379 189 – Mr. Alex

What's included in this trip

 
  • Full transportation by private car  as tour program indicated.
  • Round trip night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai to Hanoi
  • Full meals as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Trekking in Sapa
  • English- speaking guide
  • Entrance fees.
  • Twin-share accommodation with daily breakfast; ( AC room).

What's excluded in this trip

  • Personal insurance
  • Expenditure of a personal nature, tips, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, emergency transfers & etc.

Hotels in Sapa

Homestay in Sapa

Ranana

You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.

We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.

Ebrahim

Tour of Vietnam

Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!

Solly Pochee

The tour was fantastic

I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee

Bernard Lim

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.

Derek.Schooling

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel

This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.

My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress

Day: 01

Hanoi night train to Sapa, Lao Cai province

  • We pick you up from Hotel and transfer you to Hanoi train station,
  • Getting on night train and departure for Lao Cai province

Inclusion: Night train tickets, Tour guide, Transfer from Hanoi to Lao Cai station

Day: 02

Lao Cai – Sapa, trek to Ta Van village (B, L, D)

  • After the night experience night train, we arrive at Lao Cai station in the early morning, and then we take 45 minutes for driving up to Sapa town.
  • After breakfast & a short morning break and have some last preparation for the trekking to villages.
  • We leave the hotel and start easy trekking through the hill-tribe villages, green valleys, rice terraces and have a picnic lunch en trekking track.
  • Keep trekking to Ta van village where is the home of the Giay People. We will be warmly welcomed by locals and check in the homestay and overnight with experienced nighttime here.

Inclusion: Breakfast; lunch; dinner, Homestay in Ta VanEntrance fee; Tour guidePrivate air-conditioned vehicle pick up from Lao Cai train station to Sapa town

Day: 03

Easy trekking to villages & Return to Sapa (B, L)

  • After breakfast, we keep the easy trekking through the rice terrace track to Giang Ta Chai village where is home of Red Dao people, and then to Su Pan village where the vehicle is awaiting for transferring back to Sapa town.

  • The afternoon time is free at leisure and explore Sapa town by self

  • Hotel overnight in Sapa town

Inclusion:  Breakfast; Entrance fee; Tour guidePrivate air-conditioned vehicle pick up from Su Phan village back to Sapa town, Hotel in Sapa

Day: 04

Sapa – Cat Cat Village- Lao Cai station (B, L)

  •  After lunch, take a 2km short easy trekking to Cat Cat Village, the home of Hmong Ethnic. Meeting & talking with locals to learn more about their daily life. The bus/van pick up and transfer back to the hotel.
  • Leave Sapa by Bus in the late afternoon (5.30 p.m.) to Lao Cai station for our night train back to Hanoi.

Inclusion:  Breakfast;  Entrance fee; Tour guidePrivate air-conditioned vehicle pick up from Cat Cat village back to Sapa town and transfer to Lao Cai station and Night train tickets to Hanoi.

CHECK PRICE & AVAILABILITY - BEST QUALITY GUARANTEE

    Amazing

    Sapa Tours

    Impress Travel – Sapa tours offers classic and easy tours, trekking tours (easy trek, medium trek & hard trek) to discover the remote ethnic minority villages & adventurous tours to conquer Fansipan’s highest mountain peak or motorbike to travel around and mountain biking, market day tours, homestay with an ethnic family. For the most trusted and most saving for North Vietnam Tour Packages to explore Sapa Vietnam. Email: Sapatours@impresstravel.com & call to Mr. Alex Impress Travel Manager at his cell phone (+84) 9123 79 189