Nong Nok Khiene to Trapeang Kriel: Laos to Cambodia Crossing 2026
Nong Nok Khiene (also written Nong Nok Khian or Veun Kham) in southern Laos faces Trapeang Kriel in Cambodia’s Stung Treng province. It is the only international crossing between the two countries. With every Thailand-Cambodia land border closed since June 2025, it has become an important overland route into Cambodia from the north.
Quick Facts
- Lao side: Nong Nok Khiene / Veun Kham, Champasak province
- Cambodia side: Trapeang Kriel, Stung Treng province
- Hours: roughly 06:00 to 20:00
- Nearest tourist base: Don Det and the 4,000 Islands, Laos
Visas On Each Side
Cambodia: Trapeang Kriel is one of the few land crossings that accept the Cambodian e-visa (about US$36). A visa on arrival (about US$30) is also available. Complete Cambodia’s e-Arrival card within seven days before arrival.
Laos: the Lao eVisa is not accepted here, so arriving from Cambodia you need a visa on arrival or a visa issued in advance. Bring a passport photo and US dollars.
Travelers regularly report small unofficial “stamp fees” on both sides. Having your e-visa printed and exact change ready helps you avoid extras.
Getting There
Minibuses sell through tickets from Pakse or Don Det to Stung Treng, Kratie, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, stopping at the border while passengers clear immigration. Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are both a long day away, often six hours or more after the border.
Crossing Step By Step
- Get your Lao exit stamp at Nong Nok Khiene
- Walk or ride the short distance to the Cambodian post
- Show your e-visa or apply for a visa on arrival
- Rejoin your minibus for Stung Treng or beyond
Bring Proof Of Onward Travel
Border officers on a visa run are deciding one thing: will you leave again on time? A confirmed onward or return booking is the quickest way to answer that. It matters most when you are re-entering a country you only just left, and on the flight leg if your run involves one. See whether Cambodia asks for proof of onward travel.
If you do not want to commit to a real ticket yet, Fast Onward Tickets issues an onward flight reservation in minutes. See our complete guide to proof of onward travel for what officers and airlines accept.
FAQs
Can I use this crossing for a Thai visa run?
Not directly. It links Laos and Cambodia. For Thailand, see Chong Mek to Vang Tao.
Is it the only way into Cambodia overland?
From Laos, yes. From Vietnam, use Moc Bai to Bavet. See our Poipet status update for Thailand.
How long does the crossing take?
Usually under an hour, but minibuses wait for everyone, so allow more.
Planning another run? See all our border run and land crossing guides, organized by region.
The Bottom Line
Nong Nok Khiene to Trapeang Kriel is remote but workable. Get the Cambodian e-visa, carry dollars, and expect a long travel day.