thailand
Ask question

Is it possible to do a border bounce from Chiang Rai to Laos instead of Myanmar, given that Myanmar's border is closed?

Thai Visa RulesBorder RunsChiang RaiMyanmar BorderLaos BorderVisa ExtensionsEU Passport EntryGolden Triangle Crossing
Jan 12, 2023
2 years ago
Tomáš ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
EDIT: solved , since Maynmar border is closed

I'm in Chiang Rai and I want to do a border bounce. Should I go to Myanmar (Tachileik) or Laos (Chiang Khong)? EU passport . thanks
3,325
views
9
likes
98
all likes
47
replies
2
images
14
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
A user in Chiang Rai sought advice on border bouncing options due to the closure of the Myanmar border. Community responses unanimously highlighted that the Myanmar border remains closed to foreigners and recommended Laos (specifically Chiang Khong) as the only viable option for a border run. Additionally, suggestions included the Golden Triangle crossing, which is nearby and often overlooked. Comments also provided insights on potential hassles at the Laos border and tips for a smooth re-entry into Thailand.
Paul *******
You can try the Golden Triangle crossing at Chiang Saen, but not sure whether a same day return is acceptable. Since the golden triangle is a mere 33km from Mae Sai, you might as well try that first. On the other hand, Chiang Khong opens longer and there are cross border buses.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Jean-francois *******
You said it yourself Myanmar is closed,why ask ?
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
Golden Triangle crossing works as an alternative for now.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Bob *******
@Jean-francois ******
 Mae Sot opens today, hopefully Mae Sai will soon follow.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Bob *******
Reply
Steve ********
No such thing as an EU passport. Depends on country, not political union. Are you entitled to visa exempt entry?
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Steve ********
@Glen-do *********
 Someone has to get it right. I guess I'm the chosen one!
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Glen-do **********
@Steve *******
 every comment see Steve correcting folks 😂😂😂😂😂
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Glen-do **********
Reply
Gregg *************
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
Oh shit of course it’s closed lovely
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
So? Firstly, it will reopen soon, seeing that Mae Sot just opened today. Secondly, just 33km or a 25-30 min drive from the Mae Sai crossing you have the Golden Triangle border crossing with Laos.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Paul ******
 thanks paul I didn’t realize it was that close I’m pretty surprised but it’s good to know sir
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
@Gregg ************
 Yes, it's one border crossing many people overlook or don't realize is there. There are actually two checkpoints rolled into one - the first one is for local Thais and Burmese only, for the small, older casino on the opposite bank.

The big one, open to everyone is the Golden Triangle Economic Zone one, which is designed to allow gamblers across from Chiang Rai. The opening hours aren't as long as Chiang Khong, but it may be an alternative for those who don't want to go to the latter for whatever reason. Even though you have to catch a boat, it may be quicker than waiting for the bus at the Chiang Khong crossing and again on the way back.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Paul *******
Reply
Gregg *************
Myra mar is a lot closer and less hassles
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
@Gregg ************
 err..for anyone based in either Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, going to Laos is about the same distance as Myanmar. There is no additional "hassle". In fact, it may even be easier, seeing there are cross border buses that connect Chiang Rai with Bokeo, Laos and Chiang Mai with Luang Prabang (the latter service might not have resumed yet). In any case, there never have been any Thailand-Myanmar cross border bus services and might never be any.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Paul ******
 thanks for the update sir be safe out there and remember to hydrate
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Gregg *************
Reply
Paul *******
@Steve *******
 the closest alternative is the Golden Triangle crossing. Not sure why no one talks about that one. Is it a case of not being aware it's open to foreigners or people don't want to recommend it because its the one that serves the shady Kings Roman casino? Either way, it's a legitimate border crossing for all foreigners with Laos.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Frank **********
@Gregg ************
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Steve ********
@Gregg ************
 So if you're a tourist, you have to tolerate the rules for tourists, surely? And if Myanmar keeps its border closed, you have to look for an alternative
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Steve ********
@Gregg ************
 But not really Thailand's fault is it? And you've been in Thailand since 1999 and you're STILL doing border runs? I haven't done one in about 20 years!
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Steve *******
 I don’t live in thailand only been a tourist since 1999
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
I have no desire to live in thailand
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Gregg *************
Reply
Steve ********
@Gregg ************
 I've been coming to Thailand since 1984. The Myanmar border has never affected me, but, er....yeah
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Steve **********
@Steve *******
 closed
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Steve *******
 but it hugely affects those of us who base out of chiangmai and use chiang rai for border runs and don’t want to deal with all the hassles of going all the way to Laos for a stamp
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Jeremy ********
@Gregg ************
 why not just get a legitimate visa?
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Jeremy ********
Reply
Steve ********
@Gregg ************
 Not quite sure what that has to do with the Myanmar border being closed, but er, yeah
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Steve *******
 it has everything to do with it esp for someone like myself who has been visiting thailand since 1999
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Gregg *************
Reply
Steve ********
@Gregg ************
 Actually a lot of hassles, seeing as the border is closed! 😂
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Mike ********
@Steve *******
 open today , Thai immigration officer informed me when getting my 30 day extension ,.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gregg *************
@Steve *******
 I see that now

Thailands heyday as a destination is over
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Gregg *************
Reply
Tomáš ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
thank you all
2 years ago
Like
Reply
David ********
good luck with the Myanmar border
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gorgon *****
try a Sunday from CR..very quiet and efficient (though depends on what you intend to ask for in terms of readmission , of course) .
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gorgon *****
if doing a true "bounce" as opposed to a regular visa where you would have to stay a few nights to process application:

currency used on Laos side is Thai Baht...(not American dollars suggested for visa application)

on THAILAND re entry..fill out the TM6 slip before approaching Immigration counter..leave exit portion (left hand portion) blank as this will be stamped and stapled in your passport. (TM6's were used in the past for all entry to Thailand..now just land crossings)..
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Gorgon *****
if you know of another..or others..who are doing the same thing, consider getting a Grab driver for the day..simplifies things and wonderful drive back if you go in a loop ..following the Nok River on the way back..then, no need of bike taxis after bus ride...just the very short bus ride between Immigration checkpoints.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Gorgon *****
Reply
Marcel ***********
Chiang Khong is the easiest. Don't worry.. you can go and come back same day
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Goudoune ************
None some people get bounced back if they don't stay long enough in laos .. forcing them to come back by air.... happened to few people i know from Chiang khong.... depends on your visa history i guess
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Nick *******
Laos is your only option. Myanmar border is still closed for foreigners
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
It's all over the news (Thai and Burmese news). No specific details about foreigners being allowed across yet. No word on whether it's day return only or if Burmese visas are allowed to be used there. No word on Covid requirements (likely to be waived for day trippers in my opinion, though until a report comes through its all speculation).
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
Not quite. Mae Sai is closed to everyone. Mae Sot reopened today at least to Thais and foreigners. No idea whether it's day return only or if Burmese visas are now recognized there again.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Nick *******
@Paul ******
 hmm, could be that I am a bit behind with the latest update. Where have you found that Mea Sot reopened today?
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Nick *******
Reply
Stuart *********
Myanmar borders closed to foreigners. Have been for a couple of years now.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
@Terary *********
 did they test you for Covid? I remember that effective a couple of weeks before the border was closed, Myawaddy immigration was testing foreigners on arrival. A report on TripAdvisor I think it was, dated March 8, 2020 mentioned this happening.

BTW my colleague in Myanmar claims the border is in fact open to foreigners now. I have tried calling Tak immigration to confirm but no one ever picks up.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Paul *******
Yes Mae Sot opened today but no idea whether foreigners will be allowed across. I can confirm Thai and Burmese citizens can cross.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Terary **********
@Paul ******
 When I did my visa run there last (the same day they closed the border because of covid), there was a guy there that takes the passports, disappears, comes back an hour later, bada-bing, passport stamped in/out of Myanmar.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Terary **********
Reply
Bob *******
@Stuart ********
 mae sot opens today.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Stuart *********
@Bob ******
 Ok not heard that.
2 years ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Stuart *********
Reply
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
Is the Mae Sot border open to foreigners for border bounce?
3 comments
9 months ago
Can I do a visa run to Myanmar from northern Thailand?
51 comments
a year ago
Is it possible to do a border bounce from Kanchanaburi to Myanmar?
1 comments
a year ago
What are the current land border options for a visa run from Chiang Mai, considering the conflict in Burma?
5 comments
a year ago
Can I cross at Chiangsean border instead of Mae Sai in Thailand?
15 comments
a year ago
What is the current situation with border crossings between Thailand and Myanmar?
28 comments
a year ago
What are the current status and recommendations for border crossings in Thailand?
7 comments
a year ago
What are the latest border bounce procedures from Nong Khai to Laos?
35 comments
a year ago
What are the best options for expats in Thailand needing to exit and re-enter due to visa rules after Myanmar stopped border bounces?
113 comments
2 years ago
What are the best driveable border points for a border bounce from Thailand?
81 comments
2 years ago
Which border crossings from Chiang Rai to Myanmar and Laos are currently open and what are the best recommendations for visiting them?
18 comments
2 years ago
What are the recent experiences and requirements for border bouncing between Thailand and Laos?
23 comments
2 years ago
Has anyone successfully made a border bounce at Mae Sai Border recently?
4 comments
2 years ago
Can you do a border bounce on foot at the Chiang Khong border with Laos?
16 comments
2 years ago
What should I know before doing a border run from Chiang Rai to Laos?
8 comments
2 years ago
Is a visa run to Mae Sai (Myanmar) possible right now or is Huay Xai a better option from Chiang Mai?
3 comments
2 years ago
What are the best options for a visa run from Chiang Mai, considering the current immigration situation with Myanmar?
57 comments
2 years ago
Can I cross the land borders to Myanmar for a border bounce?
0 comments
2 years ago
What are the best options for a border bounce from Chiang Mai to Laos?
14 comments
2 years ago
Is the Myanmar border crossing closed to foreigners for a border bounce?
4 comments
5 years ago
Can I do a border bounce at the Myanmar border for my Thai visa extension?
12 comments
6 years ago
What are the best options for a border run from Koh Phangan for an Israeli passport holder?
17 comments
6 years ago
What are the options for visa-bouncing from Chiang Mai to Mae Sai and what are the current immigration considerations?
31 comments
6 years ago
What are the alternative destinations for a 90-day border bounce in Thailand if the road to Maesai is closed?
11 comments
6 years ago
What are the quickest and cheapest options for border bouncing from Chiang Mai when I’ve exceeded land crossings?
8 comments
6 years ago
Data protection policyTerms and conditionsDisclaimerPrivacy policyRefund policy
The asq:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.