The 238-kilometer border between Laos and Myanmar is one of the world’s newest and most remote international crossings, a frontier that was sealed to foreigners until just a few years ago. It is a journey for the truly adventurous, a passage through a rugged and isolated part of the Golden Triangle region.
There is only one place for you to cross: the Wan Pong-Kyainglap Friendship Bridge. This bridge spans the Mekong River, connecting the two countries in a region that has historically been known for its inaccessibility and opium cultivation. The opening of the bridge is part of a larger plan to increase regional connectivity.
This is not a crossing for the unprepared. It is located in a very remote area, far from any major cities. You must have all your visas and permits arranged long in advance. Transportation to and from the border is sparse and will likely need to be arranged privately. The facilities are new but basic.
The security situation in this part of Myanmar can be volatile, and you must check the most current travel advisories before even considering this route. For those who can navigate the significant logistical challenges, this crossing offers a rare opportunity to explore a corner of Southeast Asia that has long been off-limits.