Which part of Thailand is Kanchanaburi?
Kanchanaburi is a town in west Thailand. It's known for the Death Railway, built during WWII. The line crosses over the River Khwae Yai via the Death Railway Bridge. Displays at the JEATH War Museum honor the prisoners of war who died building the bridge. The Thailand–Burma Railway Centre explores the wider history of the railway. Nearby, thousands of Allied soldiers are buried at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.
Things you need to know about kanchanaburi
While it's tempting to dramatise Kanchanaburi's World War II history, there is in fact so much more to the city than the popular trios: Death Railway, Bridge over the River Kwae (Kwai) and the Allied War Cemetery. The city offers a range of delightful diversions, whether bamboo rafting journeys along the River Kwae, Khmer temple ruins tour, or a day out shopping at the gemstone village. The scenic riverside area sets the stage for a leisurely stroll but can also become loud at night due to music from karaoke bars and discos.
Although a year-round destination, the best time to visit Kanchanaburi is November to February, when temperatures are relatively cooler than the rest of the year. In the peak of summer (April), Kanchanaburi is one of the hottest places to be, so it’s best to avoid coming during that time.
The 12 Best Things you must see experiences in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Along with history, Kanchanaburi lures travelers with the promise of a slower pace than Bangkok. It's an accessible escape from the big city. Rivers, caves, waterfalls, and other natural attractions are within reach once Bangkok's traffic is no longer tolerable.
There are some top activities and private tours we can provide,including popular culture & history in Kanchanaburi, Nature & Adventure private tours.
They were knowledgeable, attentive and added a bonus elephant encounter. The tour of the historic River Kwai bridge, cemetery and museum were informative and interesting. Seeing the train made it come full circle. The Erawan national park was unbelievable! Each of the 7 layers were unique and beautiful- but the hike to the top was more than moderate! The lunch was fantastic with such variety and was delicious. Finally we fed and rode an elephant- which was over and above! Cannot say how much loved our guides for making such a memorable day- hope you will too!
Relax Along the River Kwai.After the busy buzz of Thailand's capital, the pleasant vibe of Mae Nam Kwae Road along the River Kwai is just what a traveler needs.
Walk Over the Bridge on the River Kwai.The premier attraction in Kanchanaburi is an iron bridge popularized by the movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai, although very little of the present bridge is original.
Take a Ride on the Train. Riding the train across the bridge then to Nam Tok is a popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi.
Go See Hellfire Pass.While the iron bridge draws tourists with some big-screen infamy, Hellfire Pass is a bit more authentic.
Explore Sai Yok National Park.Although the ever-popular Erawan Falls draw the most tourists, the smaller set of falls in the Sai Yok National Park attracts plenty of locals.
Swim at the Erawan Falls.Swimming in the multi-leveled pools of the Erawan Falls is the most popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi away from the bridge.
Visit the War Cemeteries.To round out your tour of war history in Kanchanaburi, go visit one or both of the war cemeteries.
Tour the World War II Museums.On the main road near the bridge over the River Kwai, you’ll find the Arts Gallery and War Museum along with the JEATH War Museum.
Picnic at the Dam. The Srinakarind Dam is a massive hydroelectric plant situated on the River Kwai Yai just north of Erawan National Park.
Visit an Elephant Sanctuary. A number of elephant camps and sanctuaries can be found in the Tham Than Lot National Park (also called Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park) located northeast of Erawan and the hydroelectric dam.
Marvel at a Giant Tree.A rain tree (Albizia saman) over 100 years old is growing just south of Kanchanaburi. The tree stands alone in the middle of a lot, making it even more prominent.
See Buddha Images in Caves.Bigger and with more caves than the temple mentioned above, Wat Tham Khaopoon can be found south of town on Highway 3228, just past the Chong Kai War Cemetery.