Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, a town in western Thailand, sits at the meeting point of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers. Located 120 km west of Bangkok, it's home to the Bridge on the River Kwai, Erawan National Park's waterfalls, and the Tiger Cave Temple. The surrounding province, Thailand's third-largest, encompasses rivers, forests, and mountains.

Exploring the River Kwai

The River Kwai defines Kanchanaburi's landscape. You can take a longtail boat ride to see the river's scenery and visit nearby sites. Many restaurants along the riverbank serve fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes with river views. For a different experience, you can stay in a floating hotel or raft house on the river. If you're looking for adventure, try kayaking or white-water rafting on the river's rapids.

Natural Wonders of Kanchanaburi

Erawan National Park, about 65 km north of town, has a seven-tiered waterfall surrounded by forest. You can swim in the turquoise pools at several levels of the falls. For fewer crowds, visit Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, which is closer to town. The park also has hiking trails and caves to explore. Sai Yok National Park, further west, includes limestone mountains, caves, and its own waterfalls.

Cultural and Religious Sites

Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple) sits on a hilltop with views of the surrounding countryside. The temple complex has a large Buddha statue and detailed murals. Nearby, Wat Ban Tham (Dragon Temple) has a staircase that leads through a dragon's mouth. For a look at ancient history, you can visit Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park, which contains Khmer-style ruins from the 13th century.

World War II History in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi was an important site during World War II, where the Thailand-Burma Railway was constructed. The Bridge on the River Kwai, made famous by the 1957 film, stands as a reminder of this period. You can walk across the bridge and ride a train over it. The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre provides information about the railway's construction and the hardships faced by prisoners of war and forced laborers. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, where nearly 7,000 Allied prisoners are buried, serves as a somber reminder of the war's human cost.

Getting to and Around Kanchanaburi

You can reach Kanchanaburi from Bangkok by bus or train. Buses leave regularly from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, taking about 3 hours. For a more scenic route, take the train from Bangkok's Thonburi station, which runs along part of the historic Death Railway. In Kanchanaburi, songthaews (shared taxis) are a convenient way to get around town. To explore further, you can rent a motorbike or hire a car with a driver to visit the national parks and more remote areas.

Where to Stay in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has accommodation options for various budgets. In town, you'll find budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels. Many places to stay are along the river, with views of the water. For a unique experience, you can stay in a floating hotel on the River Kwai. If you prefer to be closer to nature, several resorts and eco-lodges are near the national parks, providing a more secluded environment.