Information

TRAVEL AND DISTANCE

1.How long is the trip?

1. The journey on the CHAPA Express Train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes approximately eight hours.

Hanoi to Lao Cai Route

1. SP3: Departs Hanoi Station at 22:00, arrives at Lao Cai Station at 05:55.
2. SP7: Departs Hanoi Station at 22:40, arrives at Lao Cai Station at 06:25.

Lao Cai to Hanoi Route

1.  SP4: Departs from Lao Cai Station at 21:30, arrives at Hanoi Station at 05:35.
2.  SP8: Departs from Lao Cai Station at 12:05, arrives at Hanoi Station at 19:37.

2.How can I get to the train station from my hotel, or vice versa?

1. We offer private transfer services between resorts and the train station for an additional fee.
2. CHAPA transportation options include:
3. Shuttle bus
4. Private car (7-seater, 16-seater)
5. Minivans
6. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transportation but ensure timely arrival at the station.

3.Is the CHAPA Express Train available on public holidays?

1. Yes, the train operates year-round, including public holidays and Vietnamese New Year (Tet) Early booking is recommended during peak period.

4.Where can I find the train schedule?

1.  For the full schedule, visit our website: www.chapaexpresstrain.com

5.Is Sapa town located right where the train stops?

1. No, Sapa town is approximately 35 km from Lao Cai Station. You will need to travel by car through a scenic mountain pass to reach Sapa.

6.Is it safe to travel by train?

1. Yes, train travel is safe. Trains run on dedicatedtracks and maintain reliable schedules .

7.How can I protect my personal belongings?

1. Keep valuable items like phones, computers, wallets, and jewelry within sight.
2.  Store important belongings under the bed if you carry a lot of luggage.
3. Always lock your room door at night, especially if traveling alone.

8.How early should I arrive at the station before departure?

Arrive at least 45 minutes to 1 hour before departure, especially during holidays or Tet when station are busier. This allows time for ticket collection, check-in, finding the right platform, and managing any unexpected delays.

9.What happens in an emergency?

1. If you encounter issues before, during, or after your trip, contact CHAPA for assistance.
2.  Vietnam’sinternational dialing code is +84.
3. To call abroad from Vietnam, dial 00, followed by the country code and phone number.
4. Emergency numbers in Vietnam :
5. Ambulance: 115
6. Fire: 114
7. Police: 113

TICKETS AND COSTS

1.What does the ticket price include?

1. Ticket prices and included services will be detailed at the time of booking. You can visit here.

2.Do I need to book tickets in advance?

1. Yes, advance booking is required.

3.How can I buy or book tickets?

You can book tickets through the following channels:

(1) Visit our office at Hanoi Station: 120 Le Duan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City.

(2) Book online at www.chapaexpresstrain.com;

(3) Contact us via WhatsApp, Zalo, or Messenger: +84 913 396 800 / +84 912 200 683.

(4) Email us at: reservation@chapaexpresstrain.com

4.How can I pay for tickets?

1.  Payment can be make in  cash or via bank transfer.
2.  Visit https://chapaexpresstrain.com/ to check ticket prices and make payments.
3. Select your departure, destination, and travel date.
4.  Choose your cabin type, fill in your personal details.
5. Complete the payment to finalize the booking process

5.How will I receive my ticket? How can I review my purchased ticket?

1.  One your booking and payment are completed, ticket information will be sent to your email. Use your ticket code to print your boarding pass directly at the station.
2. To review your ticket:
3. Visit https://chapaexpresstrain.com/.
4. Click on the "My Booking" section.

          Enter your booking reference and click "Find"

6.What should I do if I want to issue an invoice?

1.  To request an invoice, select the “Request an Invoice” option and fill in the requireddetails during the booking process.

7.Can I cancel my trip if it is raining or foggy?

1. CHAPA Express Train minimizes cancellation penalties for customers but adheres the cancellation policies of its service partners
2. Trip cancellations by CHAPA Express Train are permitted only in cases of serious incidents such as natural disasters, epidemics, or political unrest. In such case, customer will receive a full refund without additional compensation.
3.  Reminder:  Review our terms and conditions before booking .

8.Are tickets purchased via payment gateways eligible for the same discount as direct purchase?

1. Discount may apply to both online and direct ticket purchases, depending on the promotional programs in effect.

9. Can I change my seat class when boarding the train?

1.  Seat or cabin are subjectto availability. Fees include the price difference and applicable exchange rates at the time of the change.

CHAPA POLICY

1.Can I bring my own food/drinks?

1. Yes, outside food or drinks are allowed.

Note:  If food or drinks cause damage to the bedding, compensation will be required upon check-out

2.Can I ask train staff for help?

1. Absolutely. Our staff are available to assit with:
2. Ordering food and drinks.
3. Providing blankets and pillows.
4. Changing compartments if needed.
5. For any issues or requests, please contact the staff directly.

3.What if I miss the train?

1. Ticket are invalid if the miss is not caused by CHAPA.
2.  In cases ofunavoidable circumstances, CHAPA has measures in place to support passengers.

4.Can I smoke in the cabin?

1. No, smoking is stricktly prohibited in in cabin, corridors, or toilet areas.

5.Can I bring speakers, play music and host parties on the train?

1. To esure the comfort and privacy of all passengers, noise-making devices like speakers and radiosare not allowed.

6.Can I bring non-addictive stimulants on board?

1.  Prohibited:
2.  Addictive substances (e.g., heroin, cocaine, ecstasy)
3. Non-addictive substances (e.g. marijuana, laughing gas) in the cabin.

 Penalty for violations: fine 3,000,000 VND and immediate removal from the train

7.Are pets allowed on board?

1. No, pets are not permitted on the train .

8.What if I have children?

1. Children of all ages are welcome .
2. Under 5 years old: Free travel when sharing a cabin with parents (extra bed incurs additional charges).
3.  Private cabin are recommennded family to ensure  comfortand flexibility.
4. Consult a doctor before traveling to Vietnam with a newborn or infant. 
5.  For homestays:
6. Children under 5 years old stay free; food and drinks are charge separately.

9.Can pregnant women travel by train?

1. Yes, trains are a safe transport option for pregnant women.
2. Normal pregnancy: Safe to travel.
3. Complications (e.g., high blood pressure or sugar): Consult a doctor before traveling.

FACILITIES ON THE TRAIN

1.Does Wi-Fi/ internet work throughout the trips?

1. Yes, Wi-Fi is generally available. However, connection may weaken in moutainous areas, so consider having an offline backup plan if stable internet is crucial.

2.Which mobile data works best?

1.  Viettel and Vinaphone provide strong mobile coverage in Lao Cai. A local SIM card is recommended for better connectivity.

3.Are there bathrooms on board?

1. While there are no bathrooms individual cabins , the train is equipped with wash basins and communal toilets for guests.

4.Can CHAPA accommodate people with dietary restrictions?

1. Currently, we are unable to accommodate specific dietary restrictions.

5.What languages ​​are spoken on CHAPA?

1. Our staff communicate in both English and Vietnamese.

6.Can I load my luggage onto the train?

1. Yes, passengers are responsible for carrying their luggage onto the train when boarding.

7.What facilities and amenities are on board?

1. Cabin Amenities Include:
2. Self-controlled two-way air conditioning
3. Fire detectors for safety
4. Power outlets and reading lamps
5. Free Wi-Fi (connection may vary)
6. Hot and cold-water dispenser
7.  Complimentary drinks and snacks
8. Pillows and blankets
9. Clean, well-maintained toilets

8.Do I need to prepare any personal items?

1. Yes, it’s helpful to create a packing list to ensure you don’t forget essenntial items .

9.Who will be my tour guide?

1. CHAPA staff are presennt throughout your journey to assist you with any need or questions.

10.What should I bring for entertainment during the trip?

1. Devices like laptops, tablets, phones, headphones, or books are great for passing the time .

11.What are the advantages of traveling by train?

1.  Ample space  for movement and interaction.High safe standards.
2.  Consistently on time.

12.What are the disadvantages of traveling by train?

1. Potential noise from surrounding pasengers .
2.  Rhythm train vibrations may be unsettling for some.
3.  Sleeping could be challenging for first-time travelers.

13.Should i choose a double bed, 2-bed, or 4-bed cabin?

1. Double bed cabins:
2. Advantages: Spacious, well-equipped, and suitable for 2 people
3. Disadvantages:  Most luxurious option, so it’s the highest-price.

1. 2-bed cabin:
2. Advantages: Comfortable, private, and ideal for 2 people
3. Disadvantages:  High price than 4-bed cabins.

1. 4-bed cabin:
2. Advantages: Affordable and great for groups.
3. Disadvantages: Smaller and less private

OTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VIETNAM TRAVEL

1.When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

1. South Vietnam:  Best during dry season (December to March). .
2.  North Vietnam:  Dry season run from November to April; rainy season is from May to September. From December to March is the driest period, with relatively cold weather.
3. Consult our weather guide or contact us for detailed recommendations.

2.Do I need vaccinations before my trip?

1. Vaccinations are not mandatory but are recommended for diseases likecholera, hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio, and Japanese encephalitis.
2. Consult a doctor for medical advice.
3. Bring mosquito repellent and basic medication for common ailments.

3.What about travel insurance?

1. Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for medical emergencies, accidents, or illnesses. It ensures a safe and worry-free journey.

4.What is your currency?

1. Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND)
2. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but a 3.8%fee may apply for Visa/Mastercard.
3. ATM are readily available in major cities, and US Dollars/Euros are often accepted

5.Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

1. Visa-free entry is available for some countries. Others may require an e-visa or standard visa.
2. For detailedvisa policies and fees, refer to our website or contact your local Vietnamese consulate, or visit https://evisa.gov.vn/

6.Are there interconnecting cabins?

1. Our cabin are not interconnected.  For special arrangements or to book an entire carriage, please contact CHAPA directly

7.What documents are needed for boarding?

1. Passenngers must present  proof of identity and their booking confirmation.

8.What routes does The CHAPA Express Train operate?

1.  CHAPA Express connect the following cities:
2. Ha Noi ⇄ Lao Cai
3. Ha Noi/Ninh Binh ⇄ Da Nang
4. Ha Noi/Ninh Binh ⇄ Hue
5. Ha Noi/Ninh Binh ⇄ Quang Binh

For the latest timetable, visit our website. Tickets for all routes can be reserved online or through our offices.