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The Rise of the China–Laos Railway
A prime example of the region’s growing rail tourism success is the China–Laos Railway, which has quickly become a vital transportation corridor since its opening in 2021. The railway has already made a remarkable impact, transporting over 48.6 million passengers. Connecting important destinations in Laos, such as the UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang and the capital city of Vientiane, the railway has dramatically improved accessibility for both domestic and international travelers. The railway line has also proven to be an important link for travelers seeking multi-country experiences, allowing seamless connections to neighboring China, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries.
Beyond just making travel more convenient, the China–Laos Railway offers a scenic journey that allows passengers to take in breathtaking landscapes. The scenic route not only provides travelers with a unique perspective of Laos but also strengthens the ties between China and Southeast Asia. By offering a more sustainable alternative to air travel, the railway also aligns with the region’s growing focus on eco-conscious tourism.
Strategic Partnerships and New Routes
The development of rail tourism in the GMS is not stopping with the China–Laos Railway. In February 2025, Laos and Thailand took a major step toward enhancing their rail network by signing a cooperation agreement that focuses on improving the services on the Bangkok–Vientiane route. This collaboration has already yielded impressive results, with nearly 289,000 passengers traveling between the two cities in just the first seven months of the year. This route, connecting the capital of Thailand with Laos, has been particularly popular for those looking to experience both cultures and landmarks in a single journey.
Thailand is also pushing forward with ambitious plans to advance its railway infrastructure. The country is currently in the process of implementing the second phase of its high-speed rail project, which aims to directly connect Bangkok to the China–Laos Railway by 2032. This integration of rail networks will open up even more options for tourists, providing faster and more efficient travel across multiple countries in Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, Vietnam is not far behind in the rail tourism race. The country is developing a new rail link that will connect Hai Phong, Hanoi, and Lao Cai, which will likely become a significant tourist corridor once completed. Cambodia is also making strides in its rail infrastructure development, with plans to introduce a high-speed rail project by 2033. The goal is to link Cambodia’s key cities with neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, further expanding the region’s interconnectedness and accessibility for travelers.A
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The rapid expansion of rail networks in the GMS offers a wealth of economic and environmental benefits. One of the most notable advantages is the ability of rail tourism to promote more balanced regional development. By improving connectivity to smaller cities and secondary destinations, rail travel is helping to distribute tourism more evenly across the region. Local communities, which may not have traditionally benefited from tourism, are now seeing increased traffic and business opportunities, improving their overall economic conditions.
From an environmental perspective, rail travel offers significant advantages over traditional forms of transport, such as air and road travel. Trains are a much more sustainable option, with significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger. As global concerns about climate change and sustainability grow, travelers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly transportation options, and rail travel fits that demand perfectly. The expansion of rail networks in the GMS is directly aligned with these trends, positioning the region as a leader in sustainable tourism.
A Promising Future for Rail Tourism in the GMS
The future of rail tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion looks incredibly promising. With numerous countries investing in new rail links and partnerships, the region is poised to become a major hub for sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia. The expansion of the rail network not only enhances the convenience of travel for tourists but also improves economic opportunities for local communities while helping to preserve the region’s natural beauty.
For travelers, rail tourism offers a more relaxed, scenic, and sustainable way to explore the region. Whether it’s traversing the lush landscapes of Laos, experiencing the bustling cities of Thailand, or journeying through the rural charm of Vietnam and Cambodia, rail travel offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the Greater Mekong Subregion in all its glory.
As the GMS grows its rail network, we can look forward to much more exciting things to come. The development of rail networks is building a future in which tourism can be fun and also responsible, and can bring benefits for travellers, local communities, and the environment. With increasing rail tourism, the Greater Mekong Subregion is taking center stage in the international tourism industry by providing a sustainable and rewarding means of discovering one of the most vibrant parts of the world.
Tags: Greater Mekong Subregion. China–Laos Railway
