kanchanaburi tourist information

Kanchanaburi

Giant Rain Tree
Chang Pheuk Mountain
Wat Tham Khao Noi
Namtok Sai Yok Yai
Khao Laem National Park

Only two hours from Bangkok , Kanchanaburi is accessible by road or rail, the latter of which includes sightseeing day trips that run on weekends and public holidays. These weekend special trains are reasonably priced and make hassle-free and enjoyable adventures. Even the climate of Kanchanaburi, cooled by the altitude, forest, and River s, is a welcome respite from the heat and congestion of the nearby capital City .

Kanchanaburi City , located at the point where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai River s meet and form the Mae Klong River, is a popular resort town. Picturesque and worthy of a visit in its own right, it is frequently visited as base of operations for exploring the many cultural, natural, and Historical attractions in the surrounding countryside. Located at the confluence of the Kwae Noi and Kwae Yai rivers, Kanchanaburi lies at the source of the Mae Klong River, and these majestic bodies of water are defining characteristics of the town.

The town itself is a place to relax, watching the water from the banks of the River , inside a raft house, or from a riverside Restaurant . Many visitors like to rest along the river with a cold drink and a good book . Many of them come here just for a couple of days but stay for weeks in Order to explore all of the attractions in the surrounding countryside. Along with visiting spectacular waterfall s, lush forest, and three of Thailand’s largest reservoirs, white water Rafting , elephant Trekking , and golfing are popular activities for visitors. Kanchanaburi is an excellent tourist Destination for nature lovers.

recommended places to visit in Kanchanaburi are Srinakharin Dam , Vajiralongkorn Dam, Sai Yok Noi waterfall , Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, Erawan Waterfall, Mon Bridge, Mueang Sing Historical Park, Three Pagodas Pass, Wat Wang Wiwekaram, Underwater City , the Bridge of the River Kwae, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, and World War II museum and Art Gallery .

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The Complete Travel Guide To Kanchanaburi, Thailand

November 22, 2023
Last updated: November 22, 2023
Asia , Thailand , Things to do

Home » Travel Blog » The Complete Travel Guide To Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Is Kanchanaburi, Thailand Worth Visiting?

Planning on exploring thailand independently get our comprehensive thailand travel guide , where you’ll find all the necessary information before your trip to thailand., travel guide to kanchanaburi, thailand, the river kwai bridge.

Erawan National Park

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Kanchanaburi, the city of the bridge

Kanchanaburi travel guide.

Kanchanaburi is a small quiet town in west-central Thailand, known mainly for it’s leading role during the Japanese invasion in World War II, when over two hundred thousand Allied and Asian prisoners of war were forced to build the Death Railway. It’s most emblematic element, the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, is located in Kanchanaburi town. Besides other places of interest related to that historical episode, this town offers a splendid riverside location, several markets with authentic local flavor, beautiful Buddhist monasteries and a languid provincial town atmosphere that invites to take things easy.

Conveniently located only about 120 km west of Bangkok, it is an easy getaway from the Thai capital. If you have time enough, in the surrounding area there’s National Parks with some of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Thailand, hilltop temples with splendid views, and historical sites associated with the construction of the infamous Death Railway.

ℹ️ Top Things to Do in Kanchanaburi

The bridge on the river kwai.

Death Railway Museum

The Death Railway Museum is the best museum in the city to learn about the history of the Death Railway and the prisoners who built it . In its exhibition halls you’ll find prisoner objects, tools used to build the railway, railway parts, maps and videos. If you don’t have enough with this museum, you can continue with the JEATH War Museum , a smaller museum that details how was daily life for the prisoners during the building of the railway . The museum was created in 1977 by an abbot from Wat Chaichumpon monastery, which is located next door and you can visit as well. The pictures and paintings that make up the exhibition are displayed in wooden and bamboo structures, which aim to recreate the simple barracks where prisoners slept.

Wat Tham Suea and Wat Tham Khao

Hellfire Pass

Ride on the Death Railway

Erawan Waterfall

Allied Cemeteries

Prasat Meuang Singh

Sleep in a Floating House

🏨 Where to stay in Kanchanaburi

Best city areas to stay:.

In relation to the rather small size of Kanchanaburi, when choosing accommodation you should know that the city has a few well differentiated areas, and all of them can be a good option depending on what you’re looking for. The southern stretch of Mae Nam Khwae street is the most popular backpacker area, and the main party scene in town -noisy indeed-. The northern stretch of the same street is a quiet area across the river, but some might say a bit too far away from downtown. Downtown you’ll find a few good value guest houses, while the most fancy hotels and resorts are not found in Kanchanaburi itself but in its outskirts, with amazing views over the River Kwai.

South Mae Nam Khwae Rd.

Accommodation available: Hostels

Advantages: ✔️ Cheap area ✔️ Lots of restaurants and bars ✔️ Party nightlife ✔️ Many travel agencies for backpackers ✔️ Riverside Location

North Mae Nam Khwae Rd.

Accommodation available: Hostels and Hotels up to 4 star

Advantages: ✔️ Quiet area ✔️ Plenty of restaurants and Travel Agencies ✔️ Riverside Location ✔️ Near Bridge and Museums

Outskirts Riverside

Accommodation available: 4 and 5 star hotels

Advantages: ✔️ Riverside Location with beautiful views ✔️ Up to 5 star luxury hotels ✔️ Some of them with floating rooms over the river

🧭 Itinerary to visit Kanchanaburi

One day is enough if you want to know the most relevant places of the town:, bridge on the river kwai, the death railway museum, cemeteries of the allied prisoners, wat ban tham, night market, 🗺️ map of kanchanaburi, on the following map you will find the location of all the places previously mentioned:.

✈️ Arriving to Kanchanaburi

There are mainly 2 ways:, 🚌 by bus or van: from bangkok.

From Bangkok, the main bus terminal connecting with Kanchanaburi is Sai Tai Mai –the Southern terminal–. There are bus departures every 20 minutes and vans every 30 minutes, between 04:00 and 20:00, the ticket costs 110/120 THB, and the journey usually takes a little over 3 hours. You can also go from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi from Mochit station – the Northern terminal – although here departures are less frequent: there are usually only a couple of buses a day, although every hour between 04:00 and 18:00 there are departures by van for 120 THB.

🚊 By Train: from Bangkok

Trains from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi do not depart from Hua Lamphong Central Station, but from Bangkok Noi Station, located in Thonburi -across the river- next to Siriraj Hospital. There are two daily departures, at 7:45 am and 1:55 pm, the ticket costs 100 THB, and the journey takes about 3 hours. Upon arrival, the central station is called Kanchanaburi and is located in the very center of the city, but if you are going to stay near the Bridge over the River Kwai you must get off at the next station, Saphan Kwai Yai… in this case be on the lookout for the last stretch, as the train crosses the famous bridge!

🚇 Where to go next?

Most common destinations after kanchanaburi:, bangkok, capital of thailand, ayutthaya, the historical capital, chiang mai, the center of the north, hua hin, the closest beach, let us design your trip to thailand. find out more, ➡️ tailor made holidays to thailand ⬅️.

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13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kanchanaburi

Written by Casey Hynes and Diana Bocco Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Kanchanaburi is a microcosm of what makes Thailand such a fascinating country. You'll find a blend of historical sightseeing opportunities, as well as lush tropical wilderness areas, where you can appreciate the unique natural beauty of the Land of Smiles.

Kanchanaburi was once the site of Neolithic civilizations, evidenced by artifacts of ancient societies and burial sites that ha ve been excavated here. In the mid-20th century, the city became notorious as the home of the Bridge on the River Kwai , the controversial structure built to support the Thai-Burmese railway by prisoners of war during WWII.

Nature lovers will also find plenty of things to do. Several national parks lie in the surrounding area, with opportunities to see stunning waterfalls; impressive cave systems; and a diversity of wildlife, including wild gibbons, monkeys, and birds. Located only a two- to three-hour drive from the big-city attractions of Bangkok , Kanchanaburi is easily accessible via bus or train.

Plan your trip with our list of the top tourist attractions in Kanchanaburi.

1. Walk or Ride on the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge)

2. get a history lesson at the thailand burma railway centre & kanchanaburi war cemetery, 3. hellfire pass & memorial museum, 4. hike erawan national park, 5. get up close with gentle giants at elephant's world, 6. chungkai cemetery, 7. enjoy the quiet khuean srinagarindra national park, 8. jeath war museum, 9. learn about local history at the war museum at the bridge, 10. discover the ruins at prasat muang singh national park, 11. ban kao national museum, 12. find your way to sai yok yai waterfall, 13. travel back in time at mallika city, 1905 a.d., where to stay in kanchanaburi for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in kanchanaburi, more must-see places to visit near kanchanaburi.

Called the "Bridge on the River Kwai" because of the famous movie of the same name, the Death Railway Bridge is the best-known historical landmark in Kanchanaburi. It was erected through the forced labor of British, Dutch, and American prisoners of war during WWII.

The bridge was part of the Thai-Burmese "Death Railway," so named because of the scores of men who died during its construction. Japanese forces oversaw the project, as the railway would have helped bring supplies to their troops who were fighting the British in neighboring Burma.

Today, you can walk or ride a train across this bridge, sections of which are from the original structure. Market stalls surround the area selling food and souvenirs.

Thailand Burma Railway Centre & Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

The well-curated exhibits of the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre provide an excellent overview of the railway's history and the brutal conditions suffered by the POWs and forced labourers who built it. Poignant personal accounts, photographs, artifacts, and videos illuminate this dark slice of history, from the Japanese invasion to the lives of some of the survivors after the war.

After absorbing all the museum exhibits, take a short stroll through the well-maintained Kanchanaburi War Cemetery across the street. Also known as Don-Rak War Cemetery, this is the final resting place of nearly 7,000 British, Dutch, and Australian prisoners who died during construction of the Death Railway.

Walking past the graves and reading the inscriptions can be an emotional experience, especially when you realize how young some of the prisoners were. Even more sobering is the fact that these graves represent only a small number of the prisoners who died toiling under unimaginably harsh conditions to construct the railway.

Address: 284/66 Sangchuto Road, Tambon Ban Tai, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi

The Hellfire Pass is a 500-meter-long portion of rock that 1,000 prisoners of war dug out (by hand) to pave the way for the Death Railway. Seven hundred of those men died during the 12-week digging period. Today, it's possible to walk the old railway track into the jungle (which takes about four to five hours), and visit a memorial museum honoring those who died.

Established by the Australian government to honor Allied POWS, the museum tells the poignant stories of these men through artifacts, tools, photos, and multimedia displays. The audio headsets are highly recommended.

Location: Highway 323, about 80 kilometers from Kanchanaburi

Jungly Erawan National Park offers a soothing counterpoint to some of Kanchanaburi's emotionally charged historical attractions, and the picturesque seven-tiered Erawan Falls are the star attraction. The water cascades down the mountains in a serene setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and limestone mountains.

A scenic hiking trail leads up to the top of the falls (look out for thieving monkeys along the way), and the turquoise pools are a lovely spot to take a refreshing swim on a hot day. Dip your feet in the water, and you might feel fish gently nibbling at your toes.

Keep an eye out for other wildlife in the national park, including elephants, gibbons, and king cobras. (You'll want to be wary of that last one.) If you're up for a bit of exploration, check out the park's Tham Phra That Cave . You can wander through four cavernous rooms and admire the ancient stalagmites and stalactites. Try to arrive earlier in the day to beat the tour buses.

Location: 65 kilometers from Kanchanaburi

Most people come to Thailand with the hopes of having a divine experience with an elephant, Thailand's most revered creature. Elephant's World provides visitors an opportunity to do that in an ethical way. The elephants here are rescues that have suffered from years of labor and abuse.

Rather than riding elephants or watching them perform shows, you spend the day in the service of the animals - preparing food for them and bathing them in the river. It's a way to care for abused elephants and volunteer in a meaningful way.

Official site: http://www.elephantsworld.org/

Also called Chonk-Kai Cemetery, this now peaceful area on the banks of the Kwai Noi River is home to the graves of more than 1,700 POWs (1,400 Commonwealth and 300 Dutch casualties), and was also the site of a former POW camp. The ground where these prisoners are buried is the same place they founded a church and cemetery during their years of internment.

Many of those laid to rest died at the nearby hospital. Like the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery , this one is also beautifully landscaped. It lies about two kilometers south of the city and is easy to reach from town by bike.

Surrounded by lushly-cloaked hills, Srinagarind Dam, along the Khwae Yai River, is the centerpiece of peaceful Khuean Srinagarindra National Park. You'll find less crowds here than nearby Erawan National Park . Within its borders are impressive cave systems with stalagmites and stalactites, and the park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including civets, bats, leopards, and slow lorises.

While here, be sure to visit the lovely Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls , which you can reach by boat or 4WD vehicle. The small park near the viewpoint over the dam makes a lovely place for a picnic.

Location: 115 km from Kanchanaburi

This sobering museum was designed as an exact replica of an actual prisoner of war camp. Located on the grounds of Wat Chai Chumphon, the museum is maintained by a monk and allows travelers a look at the harsh realities of life within these camps.

The replica includes bunks, photographs, and other authentic items, and the displays include written accounts from actual prisoners of war, their family members, and authors who interviewed POWs. The name of the museum is derived from those countries that were involved in these events: J apan, E ngland, A ustralia/USA, T hailand, H olland.

History buffs will enjoy sifting through some of the diverse artifacts and exhibits at this quirky war museum. In addition to its collection of WWII relics and memorabilia, the museum also provides a more in-depth look at Thai history. You'll find displays related to ancient battles between Thailand and Burma, Thai political history, old Japanese vehicles, helmets, uniforms, photographs, and seemingly incongruous old Khmer-style carved works.

Other exhibits recreate the atrocious conditions of the POW camps with life-size figures. The museum also offers great views of the Bridge on the River Kwai.

Location: River Kwai Bridge, Kanchanaburi

It's worthwhile stopping by this historical park with its ancient ruins, once an outpost built by the Khmers. Despite its original purpose, there's something almost magical about standing in the presence of such an old and elegant structure.

Here, you'll find a preserved shrine, tower gates, and ancient inscriptions in the courtyard. It's thought to be one of the satellite cities of Angkor, the capital of the Khmer empire. At the museum on the premises, you can view artifacts and relics discovered at the site.

Step back 4,000 years to the Neolithic period and marvel at artifacts from deep into Thai (and human) history at this intriguing museum on the banks of the Kwai Noi River. Founded at the site of a Neolithic burial center discovered by an Allied prisoner of war, Ban Kao National Museum displays the remains of several skeletons, bone jewelry, shell ornaments, tripod pots, axes, and other articles excavated from the area.

This is one of the most important prehistoric archaeological sites in the country.

Location: About 35 kilometers from Kanchanaburi

This is a waterfall fit for a king. Indeed, King Rama V once visited this site, and it's been praised in Thai songs and poems. The falls are found within the Sai Yok Yai National Park , but are set back three kilometers from the road, so be prepared to do some walking or hop on a motorbike. You can also take a dip in the river or skim along it between the towering rock walls.

Before King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) enacted the "Slavery Abolition Act" in 1905, over one third of the Siamese (Thai) population were slaves. The recreated village of Mallika takes visitors back to the years after that, when people had to learn to be self sufficient and adopt new trades and ways of life.

In Mallika, you can visit an ancient market and shop for souvenirs, clothes, and traditional dishes using Satang, an ancient type of money you can get when you buy your admission ticket.

The large grounds of the village are home to traditional Thai buildings, including floating houses, a rice production house and kitchen (where you can learn about rice winnowing and milling), and a Saphan Han, a bridge that could be turned manually to allow boats to pass.

You can also visit a jasmine garden, see a Reuan Dieow traditional house where commoners lived, and even climb the City Tower for breathtaking views of the countryside beyond Mallika city. If you stay till the evening, you can grab dinner and a show here, too. Shows vary throughout the year and include Khon (classical Thai pantomime), several forms of traditional dance, and Sword Play, showcasing aspects of an ancient form of Thai martial arts.

Official site: http://www.mallika124.com/en/

If you're visiting Kanchanaburi for the first time and want to see the top attractions, the most picturesque, peaceful, and popular place to stay is along the River Kwai, near the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. If you're seeking a more central location, within walking distance of plenty of restaurants and shops, the city of Kanchanaburi makes a great base. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

Kanchanaburi has few luxury options, and they lie in tranquil riverfront locations, quite a distance from the main attractions. The colonial-style Dheva Mantra Resort with a spa, spacious rooms, a sprawling pool, and gorgeous gardens, sits about eight kilometers from the Bridge on the River Kwai.
Even farther away from the bridge, the boutique X2 River Kwai Resort commands a beautiful location on a bend in the river and flaunts an ultra-modern industrial style.

Mid-Range Hotels:

In a great location, within walking distance of the Bridge on the River Kwai, Felix River Kwai has spacious, clean rooms in red-roofed buildings that are spread out among palm-studded gardens. You can relax at the two swimming pools and spa.
If you prefer to stay in town, close to shops and restaurants, U Inchantree Kanchanaburi is a modern boutique hotel on the banks of the River Kwai, with cozy rooms and friendly staff.
Also in town, The Bridge Residence Hotel still lies within walking distance of the bridge and is popular for its large, modern rooms with comfy beds and flat-screen TVs.

Budget Hotels:

For great views over the countryside, it's hard to beat The Vista Pool Villa , which offers large air-conditioned rooms with private pools.
Another popular budget option is the Good Times Resort , with air-conditioned rooms, a pool, and friendly staff, a 20-minute walk from the Bridge on the River Kwai. Guests love the Thai cooking classes.
Just a short tuk-tuk ride away from the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and other attractions, the River Kwai Bridge Resort offers air-conditioned rooms, free breakfast, and a pool.

Bangkok: Less than two- to three- hours' drive from Kanchanaburi are all the top tourist attractions of Bangkok , including its magnificent Grand Palace . Not far from Bangkok, you can also explore the attractions of Ayutthaya , Thailand's former capital.

Sun, Sand, and Sea: If you're looking for a beach fix, see our article on the popular tourist sites of Pattaya , just a short hop from Kanchanaburi, and things to see and do on Phuket Island , farther south. Northeast of Phuket, the city of Surat Thani is the gateway to the famous beach destinations of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.

Khao Yai National Park: Immerse yourself in Thailand's natural beauty at mountainous Khao Yai National Park , about 300 kilometers east of Kanchanaburi. Explore jungle waterfalls and lakes, and see an astounding diversity of wildlife, including elephants, black bears, clouded leopards, and king cobras.

Kanchanaburi Travel Guide Contents

Welcome to Thailand Travel Hub's complete guide to Kanchanaburi, a wonderful, smaller city only two hours from Bangkok, located within arguably the country's most beautiful province. It is most famous for being home to the "Death Railway" and the bridge on the River Kwai, made famous in the movie of the same name from 1957, which are very popular attractions for tourists.

Here you can find the information you need about the best hotels and resorts, the best temples, the best activities and the best places to shop and eat in the city, along with our essential travel tips and advice, travel resources and booking information, all in one place. Kanchanaburi is an amazing destination whether you want to stay several nights or just do a day trip from Bangkok. In either case, the beautiful scenery and the slower pace of life will be a welcome break from the chaos and congestion of the capital, and a chance to get some fresh air and explore the outdoors.

Benefiting from a laid-back, riverside atmosphere, and a plethora of budget accommodation options, the city has traditionally been popular amongst backpackers, however, it is well worth a day or two for all visitors to Thailand for the scenery, history and culture, and a great chance to just kick back and relax in less chaotic surroundings.

Places To Go View All

Giant Rain Tree

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Hellfire Pass

Wat Tham Suea

The River Kwai Bridge

Things To Do View All

Bell’s Pizzeria

Mangosteen Cafe and Books

Bicycle Cafe Garage and Tavern

Hotels & Resorts View All

Sam’s House Guesthouse

Price ฿500 - ฿1000

X2 River Kwai Resort

Price ฿8000 - ฿22000

River Kwai Bridge Resort

Price ฿1000 - ฿5000

Royal River kwai Resort & Spa

Price ฿1400 - ฿2500

Tours & Activities View All

Burma Death Railway Bridge and Kwai River from Bangkok

Price $97.00

Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour

Price $75.49

Kanchanaburi Travel Guide Map

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Kanchanaburi Weather & When to Go

Kanchanaburi, like the rest of the country, has three seasons; cool, hot and monsoon. Even during the cool season, however, the midday sun can still be very overbearing so take extra care if you are walking around, and carry water with you. It's also worth bearing in mind that it's possible during the height of the hot season for some of the waterfalls to dry up, meaning that they become little more than some water dribbling down a rock face.

Kanchanaburi is generally hot and humid all year round, with average daily highs in the range of 27°C to 36°C. From July to October is the monsoon season, when it usually rains most days, and when it does it can be torrential. This puts some visitors off and therefore you may be able to negotiate discounts during this period. The hot season is March to June when you can see daily highs of over 40°C on occasion. This leaves the cool season, arguably the best time to visit, from November to February.

In reality, the weather doesn't vary a huge amount from season to season and you can visit at any time of the year and still have a great time.

How To Get To Kanchanaburi

Luckily, Kanchanaburi is only a couple of hours' drive from Bangkok so if you're willing to get up early the city can be covered as a day trip, although in reality, a 2-3 day trip would be better for most visitors. Even though the city is relatively small, there is plenty to see and do within the surrounding area.

Taxi - Getting a taxi to take you to Kanchanaburi for the day from Bangkok is probably the most hassle-free option. The hardest part will be finding a reliable taxi driver willing to undertake the trip. Your best option is to ask your hotel reception if they can help you to locate a driver. The cost will be around 2000 baht no matter how many people go, this includes the return trip and transport to all the key attractions whilst the driver sits and waits for you in the car.

Train - Taking a train in Thailand is an eye-opening experience if you come from Europe or the USA, where the trains are modern and comfortable. Thai trains are very old and slow by comparison. The trains depart from Bangkok's Thonburi station at 7:50 am, take around two and a half hours and cost about 100 baht ($3.33) each way. There are only third-class carriages available, which mean a wooden bench (no luxury seats here), and you could well end up sitting next to someone carrying a chicken.

Buses - Getting a bus to Kanchanaburi is fairly easy, especially if you have used public buses in Thailand before. Just head to the southern bus terminal in Thonburi, the first-class buses depart every 15 minutes between 5 am and 10:30 pm and cost 110 baht ($3.63) per person one way. There are also some second-class buses departing from the terminal for 95 baht ($3.14). A few buses are departing from the northern bus terminal, but these are much less frequent and you could be waiting for hours if you don't know which bus you want to take, so the Thonburi station would be best for most travelers.

TTH Recommendation: There are a few different methods of transport to get from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi , you can take the train, bus or get a taxi. Each of these methods of transport can be conveniently booked online, in advance of your journey. We highly recommend 12Go Asia , they have an easy-to-use booking website and helpful staff on hand to help you with your booking and tickets.

Book Transport To Kanchanaburi on 12Go Asia

Getting Around Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a fairly small city, but even so, it is too big to walk around comfortably, plus, as many of the attractions are located outside the city, you will need to use some form of transport.

Renting a motorcycle - Renting a motorcycle is cheap, easy and convenient, with prices starting at as a little as 150 baht ($5) for an older bike. The main caveat is safety; many rental places will neglect to maintain their bikes adequately so check the bike over before you sign. Also bear in mind that Thailand's roads are also not well maintained, and driving standards can be highly variable. So only drive a motorcycle if you are confident in your abilities, and have a bike license in your home country. In some parts of Thailand, the police are setting up checkpoints to check your license and they will want to see an international driving permit too. These are easily available in your home country.

Taxi / Motorbike Taxi - Taxis are a comfortable, convenient and affordable way to get around the city and to some of the attractions. The main bugbear is drivers who refuse to use their meter and try to agree a price in advance, invariably this price will be several times higher than the meter fare. Motorcycle taxis are very cheap and quick, although may be a bit too scary for some, weaving in and out of stationary traffic at high speed. They are very cheap though, with fares starting from as little as 30 baht ($1). The best way to use taxis is to download the Grab app for your smartphone, which enables you to agree the route and fare in advance and avoids the language barrier, which is an issue in Kanchanaburi as very few locals speak passable English.

Songtaews - Songtaews are like communal taxis which drive on fixed routes around the city. Flag one down to jump on then ring the bell to get off, most short trips start at 10 baht ($0.33). If the vehicle is empty the driver may be willing to take you directly to your destination for a fixed fee. Songtaews offer an excellent compromise between price and convenience, the drawback being that you may not understand the route unless you can speak Thai or have a map to look at.

Tuk-tuks - in Kanchanaburi are much like everywhere else in Thailand; an expensive novelty that only seems to appeal to tourists. The drivers will quote steep prices hoping that you won't bother to haggle, and are therefore best avoided. Also in Kanchanaburi, the drivers speak noticeably less English than in Bangkok.

Best things To See & Do In Kanchanaburi

Tour the Amazing Temples of Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has several spectacular temples, as you might expect. However, a few are particularly magnificent and should be on your to-do list. Wat Tham Sua is about 12 km outside of the city perched atop a hill, it is situated right next to another temple complex called Wat Tham Khao Noi. There are many beautifully gilded Thai-style buildings, a huge golden Buddha, and an interesting old funicular cable car that takes you up to the top of the hill along a 45° incline. Wat Ban Tham has a huge dragon’s head which you walk through towards the top of the steep hill where there is a fascinating shrine within a small cave.

Learn About the History of Kanchanaburi during WW2

The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre is a great place to start if you are interested in the historic railway which was built by POWs during WW2. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is also a fascinating place to visit, being the final resting place of the 7000 POWs who died during the construction of the railway itself. Also, there is a WW2 museum and art gallery, plus the famous JEATH War Museum where you can see how the prisoners were kept and treated during the railway's construction. You may also be interested in visiting the Chongkai War Cemetery, which is located about 2 km outside the city and is where the fallen Dutch and British POWs were buried.

Visit Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park

Prasat Muang Singh is an ancient historical site dating back to the 13th century and contains the remains of two beautiful Khmer temples. They were built in the Bayon-style which some may recognise from Angkor Wat, with beautiful hand-carved faces and statues dotted around the complex. The site is about 30 minutes drive west of Kanchanaburi and you should allow around an hour to view everything. The grounds themselves are really beautiful and well-kept, there are plenty of excellent photo opportunities. There are also a few small food vendors selling cheap local foods and drinks, in particular, the grilled chicken ("gai yang") is excellent and perfect for lunch at just 60 baht ($2).

Go Jungle Trekking at a National Park

Kanchanaburi is an excellent place to go jungle trekking, there are thousands of acres of beautiful untouched countryside within the province, ideal for enjoying a bit of the outdoors. There are several National parks within the vicinity, with plenty to see and do including camping, cave-exploring, bamboo rafting and monkey feeding. There are many routes and itineraries, but Kanchanaburi is special in that much of the local forest and jungle still have an untouched feel which gives an incredible sense of exploration. Combine that with some of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country and jungle trekking could easily become one of the most memorable things that you did in Thailand.

Try the Local Cuisine

Kanchanaburi itself does not have any regional specialities, but there are some exceptional local restaurants and places for cheap eats. The cheapest place to fill up is almost certainly the night market close to the train station where you can buy BBQ kebabs for 10 baht ($0.33), basic Pad Thai for 20 baht ($0.66) and sushi from 5 baht ($0.16) per piece. On's Thai Isaan is one of the best local restaurants, situated on the Maenam Kwai Road. It receives rave reviews online and serves up perfectly cooked Thai foods at incredible prices. Or, if you’ve got a hankering for some Thai-style burgers, try the Bicycle Cafe on Chao Khun Nen Road, you won’t regret it!

Grab a Bargain at the Markets

Kanchanaburi has some excellent local markets where you can pick up some bargains, especially if you are prepared to haggle, though beware that the residents of Kanchanaburi generally don’t speak much English if at all. The markets in the city are generally aimed at the locals, which means that they are cheap. There is the night market known as JJ’s, the River Kwai Park Market, and the Kanokarn food market. You can pick up some seriously cheap clothes, souvenirs, arts and crafts and have a delicious dinner without spending much at all. You'll find the prices here much lower than the tourist-oriented markets in places such as Chiang Mai or Phuket.

Relax with a Massage and Spa Visit

If you're on holiday in Thailand and you still haven't experienced a Thai massage, then Kanchanaburi is a great place to give it a go. There are many massage salons and spas located across the city, with a huge range of services on offer. Massages generally start from as little as 150 baht ($5) for an hour for the most basic type and increase if you choose to add aromatherapy oils, hot stone massages and so forth. Ficus Spa is very well-known and professional and worth paying that little bit extra for. The cheaper places are seemingly everywhere and will have the prices posted outside for you to compare, but be aware that the prices are fixed and haggling generally won't work.

Kanchanaburi’s Nightlife

Kanchanaburi is not a nightlife destination, and as a result, what is on offer is fairly subdued compared to other Thai tourist destinations. There are numerous karaoke bars, but these are generally aimed at the locals with not much English being spoken. However, there are several British/Australian style bars around the Mae Nam Kwai Road with a few places to drink until the early hours or listen to some live music, and a few hostess type bars. Pattaya this is not, but there is enough to keep you entertained for a few nights; try the Aussie Rules Bar and the Jahmaikarn Reggae Bar for a few cold beers and some excellent local food.

Where To Stay In Kanchanaburi

Mae Nam Kwai Road - By far the best place to stay for most visitors, with many cheap accommodation options, bars, restaurants and shopping. It has plenty of amenities, public transport options and a bit of nightlife.

Wang Dong -. Wang Dong is located northwest of the city, it is fairly rural, but has a few high-end (for the area) resorts, and beautiful scenery. It is also home to the Elephant World so would be a good choice for families.

Sai Yok - Located a little further northwest of the city, this region includes the famous Hellfire Pass and the Khmer temple complex of Prasat Muang Singh. It is also fairly rural so you'd need to hire some transport. Accommodation is generally cheaper than in the city itself.

Prices, Expenses & Typical Costs

Accommodation - Think cheap. A bed in a dorm room starts at 150 baht ($5) per night, a room in a good boutique-style guesthouse will go from around 600 baht ($20) a night. 5-star accommodation starts at around 3000 baht ($100) per night (although there are only two 5-star resorts). Guesthouses in the city generally offer a good standard of accommodation.

Transportation - A 10-minute taxi ride should be 40-60 baht ($1.33-$2), motorcycle taxis considerably less. Songtaews start at 10 baht ($0.33) for a short hop. Motorcycle rental starts at 150 baht ($5) per day, a small car can be rented from 800 baht ($26.50) a day. Some of the national parks and attractions are quite a way out of the city so hiring a car would be a great option if you're planning to do a lot of travelling, or you could share a taxi between several people. A good budget for transportation would be $15-$20 per day, considerably less if you are not visiting the national parks.

Food & Drink - Street food starts at 30 baht ($1) per bowl, which usually includes free water in a jug on the table. Pad Thai may be even less. A Thai green curry with rice in a small restaurant will set you back 60-120 baht ($2-$4), a bottle of local beer at 7-Eleven will be around 60 baht ($2) and in a restaurant around 90-120 baht ($3-$4). You can eat very well with a couple of alcoholic drinks (except wine) for around 600 baht ($20) per day.

Recommended Budget - Backpacker travelling solo with no alcohol or partying, and staying within the city: $20-$30 per day per person.

Average traveler, staying at a decent guesthouse/hotel, exploring some attractions and a few drinks in the evenings: $50-$70 per day per person.

Note: A traveler wanting to visit the further away surrounding areas including Erawan National Park and the waterfalls would need to consider adding an extra $15 for transportation, or a bit less if travelling as a group.

Family staying in a family room in a nice hotel, with attractions, taxi/tuk-tuk transport and restaurant meals, plus shopping budget: $120-$180 per day per family.

Luxury traveler, 5-star resort, taxis to attractions, cocktails and nightlife: $200 and up per day, per person.

Kanchanaburi Money Saving Tips

Kanchanaburi is an excellent value destination, you'll find that you can get by on a much smaller budget than in Bangkok or the islands, for example. However, given that the baht is currently one of the strongest currencies in the world, it still pays to follow some common-sense advice to help you enjoy your holiday for less.

Kanchanaburi has excellent street food options and these should be your go-to if you're looking to save money but still eat delicious food. Most street food vendors will just have a couple of plastic tables and chairs, usually comically small, but they serve up some of the most delicious foods in the city starting from around 30 baht ($1) a dish.

Although ATMs are everywhere in Kanchanaburi, avoid using them at all costs. The fees for using a foreign bank card in a Thai ATM are scandalous; there is an unavoidable 220 baht ($7.29) fee at the machine, which is on top of what your home bank will charge you. Using a standard American bank card in a Thai ATM could end up costing you $25-$30 per transaction at the time of going to press. Bring your home currency with you and change it in Thailand where the rates will be 10-15% better than at home.

Thailand has seen something of a downturn in tourism of late, possibly as a result of the continued strength of the currency and the tightening of immigration policies. With most tourists opting for places like Phuket or Koh Samui, Kanchanaburi has seen a significant drop in the number of visitors arriving, as such you should be able to haggle for a discount on your accommodation, particularly if you stay for several nights and pay upfront. In general, guesthouse and hotel prices are flexible in Thailand and the manager would almost certainly prefer to give you a room for half price than to leave it empty. Don't feel pressured to take the first deal that you are offered.

Is it Safe To Travel Around Kanchanaburi

Like most destinations in Thailand, Kanchanaburi is very safe, but don't be lulled into a false sense of security because petty and opportunistic crimes can still happen. As it is more rural, some parts of the city are poorly light at night, if you're unsure of where you're going just take a taxi.

Petty theft from hotel rooms and restaurant tables can take place if the criminal is offered a golden opportunity, so take care of your belongings at all times. Although exceedingly rare, bag snatching from motorcycles does still occur in Kanchanaburi, if walking on the pavement keep your bag on the side away from the road.

The biggest danger is the traffic, whether you are driving yourself, a passenger in a taxi, or a pedestrian. Be extremely cautious if you choose to drive, and take extra care when crossing the road. You will probably see Thai drivers driving the wrong way down the street, pulling out without looking, and people riding motorcycles on the pavement, all everyday, normal occurrences in Thailand.

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Asia » Thailand » 13 Amazing Things to do in Kanchanaburi Province

13 Amazing Things to do in Kanchanaburi Province

What's In This Guide?

The ultimate kanchanaburi travel guide.

This Kanchanaburi travel guide will detail waterfalls, caves, rivers, jungle trails, national parks, and some interesting World War 2 History.

Popular attractions include the Erawan Falls, Hellfire Pass, and the Bridge Over the River Kwai. However, there are also some great off-the-beaten-path attractions in Kanchanaburi where hardly any tourists go (such as 7 great national parks to explore).

Kanchanaburi is just two hours from Bangkok by a minivan – book your van tickets here . This makes it an easy destination to escape the city and head out hiking the mountains, showering under a waterfall, and cruising leisurely down the river.

Did I mention you can stay at one of these amazing floating jungle rafts for under $50 per night on Agoda? Check it out now for great discounts.

Waterfalls in Kanchanaburi

There are a total of 23 waterfalls in Kanchanaburi! Many are located deep in the jungle, accessible only by hiking trails where you are supposed to take a guide.

Some waterfalls are quite small and only have water during the wet season, I’ll let you know which ones they are. Others have running water all year round.

Here I have detailed some of the best and most popular waterfalls in Kanchanaburi.

1. Erawan Waterfall

The Erawan Waterfall is one of the most accessible waterfalls near Bangkok. This 7 tiered waterfall runs through a leafy green jungle where a freshwater stream is turned a cloudy emerald green color as it dissolves the calcium carbonate in the limestone.

The lower levels of the waterfall can be quite busy. but as you climb higher through the jungle the crowd tends to drop off. There are a series of deep pools where you can jump in for a refreshing swim, the perfect escape from the tropical jungle heat. My favorite level here is right at the top.

The Erawan Falls is located in the Erawan National Park, about 53 kilometers from Kanchanaburi. It is possible to reach the Erawan Falls by public bus, motorbike, Tuk-Tuk, and taxi. Read my full guide to the Erawan National Park for more information on how to get there from Bangkok.

2. Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall

The Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall is arguably the most stunning waterfall in Kanchanaburi. It is located deep in the forest of the Sri Nakarin National Park, about 95 kilometers north of Kanchanaburi, next to the Sri Nakarin Dam. If you are the adventurous type, this will be one of the ultimate things to do in Kanchanaburi province.

There are 7 levels of the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall which are accessed by two different trails. The first trail which provides access to levels 1 to 4 starts just near the carpark and takes about 30 minutes to complete a round trip without stopping. The second trail which provides access to levels 5 to 7 starts just across the bridge from the carpark. This trail is unpaved, muddy and longer than the first. These are both separate trails that cannot be connected together to form a loop.

For more information on planning your trip, you can visit this article on Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall .

The Sri Nakarin National Park is open from 6am to 5pm daily. There is a 300 THB (USD 10) entry fee for foreigners.

3. Kratengjeng Waterfall

The Kratengjeng Waterfall is located about 170 kilometers north west of Kanchanaburi on the way to Sangkhlaburi. Kratengjeng is a super remote waterfall deep in the forest and sees hardly any tourists, mainly because no one knows about it. This makes it one of my favorite waterfalls in the whole of Thailand and one of my favorite places to go jungle trekking in Thailand.

There are 9 levels to this waterfall which are accessed by a heavily overgrown jungle trail. Along the way, you will find jungle bananas and sings of wild elephants passing the area like deep footprints in the mud.

Kratengjeng Waterfall is located in the Khao Laem National Park which means that national park entry fees of 300 THB (USD 10) for foreigners apply.

4. Sai Yok Noi Waterfall

The Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, also called Khao Pung, is located 48 kilometers northwest of Kanchanaburi. It is less touristy than the Erawan Falls and sees even fewer tourists than the Sai Yok Yai Waterfall.

The best time to visit this waterfall is in the wet season from June to October. It is possible that during the dry season there is no water flowing here and best to check with a local before visiting.

Sai Yok Noi Waterfall is located in the Sai Yok National Park which technically means there should be an entry fee. However, most people tend to go in for free as there never seems to be anyone collecting the fees here.

5. Sai Yok Yai Waterfall

The Sai Yok Yai Waterfall is located about 85 kilometers north west of Kanchanaburi in the Sai Yok National Park. It is about 38 kilometers beyond the Sai Yok Noi Waterfall as you continue towards Sangkhlaburi (I suggest combining both into one trip). Sai Yok Yai Waterfall is less touristy than the Erawan Falls, however, still sees quite a few local Thai tourists on weekends.

There is just one level here where the stream pours out into the River Kawi Noi, eventually meeting up with the River Kwai Yai further south. The best time to visit this waterfall is in the wet season from June to October. During the dry season, you will most likely find water flowing but sometimes just a small stream.

The Sai Yok National Park is open from 7am to 5pm daily. The entry fee is 200 THB (USD 8) for foreigners and an additional charge for your vehicle.

6. Jokkradin Waterfall

This is a smaller waterfall located out near the Thai-Myanmar border near the village of Thong Pha Phum. The waterfall is also sometimes spelled as Chokkradin, so don’t get confused with the names. The Jokkradin Waterfall is in the Thong Pha Phum National Park, therefore standard National Park fees apply – 30 THB for Thais, 300 THB for foreigners.

7. Pha Sawan Waterfall

The Pha Sawan Waterfall is located midway between Pha That Waterfall and Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall in the Sri Nakarin National Park. It is about 135 kilometers north of Kanchanaburi, with the final 13 kilometers passable only by 4WD. It is also possible to hike that final 13km, which would require about 7 hours total for the round trip.

There are 7 levels at the Pha Sawan Waterfall, taking about 40 minutes to hike to the top. The waterfall’s top-level is a huge 80 meters tall, making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in Kanchanaburi.

War History in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has numerous WW2 History sites. Most sites are associated with the construction of the Death Railway, which used to run from Yangon (Myanmar) to Singapore.

If you want to visit multiple WW2 sites in one day you should check out this Kanchanaburi history tour . This tour includes; Hellfire Pass, the Death Railway, Bride Over the River Kwai, lunch, and private transport!

8. Death Railway

The Death Railway is the 415km long railway line that connected Yangoon to Singapore. It was used as a supply route by the Japanese Army in WW2. The Death Railway consisted of a series of bridges and stone cuttings. The most notable parts of the Death Railway are the Hellfire Pass and the Bridge Over the River Kwai.

9. Hellfire Pass Memorial

The Hellfire Pass was the most brutal section for the Allied POW in the construction of the Death Railway. This 75-meter-long, 25-meter-deep stone cutting section was excavated almost entirely by hand. Thousands of soldiers died in the construction of this section of the Death Railway.

The Hellfire Pass Memorial is located approximately 60km north-west of Kanchanaburi towards Sai Yok waterfalls.

Hellfire Pass Opening Hours : 7 days per week, 9am to 4pm. Entry is free.

10. Bridge Over the River Kwai

This piece of War War 2 history was made famous by the self-titled movie “Bridge Over the River Kwai.” The bridge was part of the 415km long Burma Railway which connected Bangkok to Yangon, serving as a supply route for the Japanese Army.

The bridge which stands today is a reconstruction of the original bridge, which during the war was repeatedly bombed.

The Bridge Over the River Kwai is located within walking distance of the town center and is open to visitors all day every day. You can walk across the bridge by foot, just watch out for the train as is comes across.

Bridge Over the River Kwai Opening Hours: All day, every day. Entry is free.

11. Allied Forces War Cemetery

The Allied Force War Cemetery is dedicated to those soldiers in the Allied Forces who died as Prisoners of War (POW) after being captured by the Japanese Army. Many of the soldiers died due to slave labor, malaria, and poor living conditions. Over 16,000 soldiers from Australia, New Zealand, and Britain died in this part of Thailand during the construction of the Death Railway.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery Opening Hours: 7 days per week, 8am to 5pm. Entry is free.

12. JEATH War Museum

No, it’s not a spelling mistake, the name JEATH stands for the primary nationalities involved in the construction of the Death Railway, being; Japanese, English, Australia, America, Thai, and Holland. The JEATH War Museum contains relics found from the POW camps used when building the railway.

The museum contains an interesting collection of artifacts. However, it is fairly rundown and in need of refurbishment making it one of the most obscure things to do in Kanchanaburi. 30 minutes here will be sufficient.

JEATH War Museum Opening Hours : 8.30am to 4.30pm. Entry is 40 THB.

13. Sangkhlaburi

Sangkhlaburi is the off-the-beaten-track section of this Kanchanaburi travel guide. This remote part of Kanchanaburi is located 200km north-west of Kanchanaburi, towards the Thai-Myanmar border.

Sangkhlaburi has some amazing attractions in the jungle such as the Kratengjeng Waterfall a beautiful waterfall accessed via a heavily overgrown jungle trail. The most iconic attraction in Sangkhlaburi is the Wooden Mon Bridge which crosses Lake Vajiralongkorn, the longest of it’s kind in the world.

Check out my complete guide to Sangkhlaburi for plenty more things to do around town, including; an underwater temple, the Three Pagodas Pass market on Myanmar’s border, elephant sanctuaries and more waterfalls hidden in the jungle.

How to Get to Kanchanaburi

Minivan – The quickest and easiest way to get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok is by minivan ( tickets and timetables ) . Tickets start from just 150 THB per person. A one-way journey takes about 3 hours. Vans depart from Mochit bus terminal which is easy to get to from the Mochit BTS station.

Train – trains are terribly slow, hot and uncomfortable in Bangkok. If you really want to get a train to Kanchanaburi you can hop on at Thonburi Station for about 100 THB per person. A one-way journey could take anywhere between 3 to 6 hours. no pre-bookings are required for the train.

Taxi – a taxi from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi will cost between 1,600 and 2,000 THB one-way. The journey will take about as long as the minivan. Flag down a taxi in Bangkok and negotiate the fare first.

Hotels in Kanchanaburi

There are some hostels and plenty of budget hotels in Kanchanaburi’s town center. You can easily get a private room for under 1000 THB (USD 40) per night in the areas just north or south of the Bridge Over the River Kwai.

While there are lots of budget options in the town, I highly recommend staying on a floating raft house in the jungle a bit further out of town. It is a fantastic experience that is quite unique to Kanchanaburi.

Jungle Raft Houses

My favorite floating raft house in Kanchanburi is the Tayan Resort and Spa where I have stayed four times so far. I love is being able to kick back in a hammock or jump in the river for a cool swim in the afternoon.

The floating rafts are fairly basic but come with a large double bed, private bathroom, air conditioner, a riverfront view, and a hammock. There is a restaurant down by the river open for lunch and dinner, and a complimentary breakfast is included with your booking.

The Tayan Resort raft house is located about 30 kilometers (25 minutes) out of town but is considerably cheaper than some of the more upmarket raft houses around Kanchanaburi.

Mid Range Hotels

There are a number of mid-range hotels in Kanchanaburi just north of the Bridge Over the River Kwai. Most of these hotels range in price from USD 30 to USD 100 per night, depending on the comfort level you are after. You will commonly find these hotels have a pool (which is great considering Kanchanaburi is the hottest part of Thailand) and include complimentary breakfast.

Kanpura Hotel – USD 30 per night including; air-conditioning, free wifi, and pool
Ruen Maihom Riverside Cottage – USD 50 per night including; air-conditioning, free wifi, and pool

Budget Hotels

For the absolute cheapest accommodation in town check out the Jolly Frog Backpackers where beds go for 100 THB per night. It doesn’t seem like you can book this place online, so try to walk in and see if they have any availability.

Need more info on these destinations in Kanchanaburi? Ask me in the comments section below!

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand

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Many of the best things to do in Kanchanaburi can be done for free or on self-guided trips. It’s the type of place where a traveler can still get those tingles of discovery and reflection. Grab a map, rent a scooter, and go! There’s enough World War II history to keep you learning new things for days.

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.

Note: Although the Tiger Temple was formerly one of the popular things to do in Kanchanaburi, you won’t find it on this list. The famous temple where travelers could pose for pictures with tigers is now closed and under investigation.

Relax Along the River Kwai

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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. The stretch that parallels the river is crammed with guesthouses, cafes and bars for eating and socializing.

Although the road isn’t overly relaxing, serenity can be found just behind it. Many of the cafes and guesthouses have green gardens with lounge areas that back up to the river. Enjoy a lazy afternoon in a hammock beneath a plumeria tree or on a deck with a cold Chang,Leo or Singha in hand. But try not to lose your Zen when the occasional party boat passes by blaring full-volume karaoke or disco.

Walk Over the Bridge on the River Kwai

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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. Even the river below it wasn’t the River Kwai (it was the Mae Klong) until it was renamed to please tourists who were specifically looking for the “bridge on the River Kwai.”

The 1957 film is based on a French novel written by Pierre Boulle that portrayed the lives of Allied POWs forced to assist building the Burma Railway. The film was showered with awards but is regarded as wildly inaccurate and fictional.

The Burma Railway between Thailand and Burma was constructed by the Japanese during World War II. The project came at such a cost of human life, it is better known by its ominous nickname, the Death Railway. The bridge just north of Kanchanaburi enjoyed by tourists today is neither the one depicted in the film nor the original used on the Death Railway. Only the outer ends of the first bridge remain; the rest was bombed away by Allied forces in 1945.

Although the actual history isn’t what many visitors expect, the bridge is still impressive. Walking across is the thing to do in Kanchanaburi; there are guardrails and overlooks along the way. Slow-moving trains still use the bridge, so some caution is required with small children.

Take a Ride on the Train

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Riding the train across the bridge then to Nam Tok is a popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi. The slow-moving train click clacks along with the main event being a crossing of the Wang Po viaduct. The wooden trestle is crude, original, and was constructed by POWs in a record 17 days and nights.

Some of the organized tour packages promise to include a certificate crediting you with having ridden the “Death Railway.” In reality, the tracks are modern replacements, not the ones laid by forced labor. The original Death Railway tracks were pulled up after being deemed unsafe. Only the trestle is original; it's a standing reminder of the hard work involved.

Forgo the agents who want to sell you a tour package. Instead, purchase an inexpensive ticket yourself and board the train for some nice scenery. Optionally, you could take the train one way to Nam Tok (the terminus) then return by hiring a boat.

Go See Hellfire Pass

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While the iron bridge draws tourists with some big-screen infamy, Hellfire Pass is a bit more authentic. The Australian government turned the jungle railway cutting (Konyu Cutting) into a well-done war memorial.

The POWs worked relentlessly to dig the pass, and at least 69 were documented as beaten to death by their captors. Many more conscripted Southeast Asian laborers perished while completing the difficult project.

Visitors can walk the steep, jungle trail to get a feeling for the harsh environment in which the laborers lived and worked. A small museum provides history and audio headsets that really enhance the trail walk. Note: The many stairs and slippery trail may make the walk inaccessible for some visitors.

Hellfire Pass is around a 90-minute drive from Kanchanaburi, but it’s on the way to Sai Yok National Park. A pleasant day can be enjoyed by combining the two. If not driving, you can get yourself to Hellfire Pass without joining a tour by taking the train to Nam Tok then grab a songthaew (truck taxi) to the entrance of the monument.

Explore Sai Yok National Park

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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.

With caves, hot springs, and remnants of another bridge over the Kwai Noi River, the national park is a destination worth exploration. But most people only have time to visit the falls while on the way to see Hellfire Pass.

Staying in floating bungalows on the river is an option. The tense Russian roulette scene in the 1978 movie The Deer Hunter was filmed in Sai Yok National Park .

Swim at the Erawan Falls

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Swimming in the multi-leveled pools of the Erawan Falls is the most popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi away from the bridge. The turquoise-colored water is home to fish that nibble dead skin. Be ready for some tickling attention when you stick your feet into the water!

The seven Erawan Falls are arguably the most photogenic waterfalls in all of Thailand—especially during the dry months when rain runoff hasn’t clouded the water. Unfortunately, word is out; you’ll have to share the swimming holes with large tour groups.

If you’re comfortable driving in Thailand, consider renting a scooter to make the one-hour drive to Erawan National Park. Entrance at the park is 300 baht (around $10). Things quiet down a bit in the afternoon when tour groups leave, however, be aware that the top waterfall tiers close at 3 p.m. Keep an eye out for the cheeky macaques that sometimes grab belongings. Don’t encourage them with food offerings!

Visit the War Cemeteries

To round out your tour of war history in Kanchanaburi, go visit one or both of the war cemeteries. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is the largest and most visited; find it just across from the railway station.

Close to 7,000 POWs from Australia, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom are laid to rest in the well-maintained cemetery. The massive number of graves seen isn’t even close to the number of people who perished. It’s a sobering reminder of the human cost involved to build the railway.

The smaller Chong Kai War Cemetery is located south of Kanchanaburi along the River Kwai Noi. With 1,750 buried there, this cemetery sits on the actual site of a POW camp. An old church and hospital still stand. You’ll have more solitude for reflection there than at the larger cemetery.

Tour the World War II Museums

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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. JEATH stands for “Japan, England, Australia, Thailand, Holland.” A hodgepodge of exhibits show daily life, including sleeping barracks, for the POWs. Old photos and recreated scenes compete for dusty spaces.

Although exhibits are poorly labeled and confusing (sometimes bordering on bizarre), no one could leave the Arts Gallery and War Museum and say it wasn’t interesting! Subject matter ranges from war history—as one would expect—to Miss Thailand winners, kings of Thailand, and even some prehistoric stuff thrown in for good measure.

Picnic at the Dam

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The Srinakarind Dam is a massive hydroelectric plant situated on the River Kwai Yai just north of Erawan National Park. Public transportation doesn’t service the area, so most travelers visit Erawan then head back to town without seeing the reservoir. There are some picturesque picnic spots for enjoying tranquility and a snack along the water.

Along with being a scenic area, there is a friendly cafe, a sundial monument, and some places to stay. Tours can be booked to nearby caves and smaller waterfalls. Consider purchasing some of the woven goods to support the Karen people who live nearby.

The dam is just 15 minutes beyond the entrance for Erawan National Park. If you drove yourself to the falls, continue a short distance north to the reservoir and explore a bit—the diversion is worth the effort.

Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

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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. Numerous wildlife conservation groups now advise against riding elephants; conditions for elephants are questionable at some of these camps.

ElephantsWorld , one of the sustainable choices in the area, allows visitors a chance to interact with elephants in a helpful way without riding them. Elephants aren’t forced to perform. Western volunteers live and work on site to help with care.

The sanctuary provides pick-up service from Kanchanaburi, however, there are other things to do in the national park area. You may wish to drive yourself and overnight to look around.

Marvel at a Giant Tree

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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. The massive canopy spans outward over 60 feet and is even more impressive during rainy months when covered in greenery. The tree is considered sacred—don’t climb on it.

A cave temple (Wat Tham Mangkonthong) is located nearby and well worth a look. Climb the stairs to enter the dragon. This is a working temple, so the rules of temple etiquette in Thailand apply .

To find both, take Highway 3429 south from Kanchanaburi then turn left after the Wat Tham Mangkonthong school.

See Buddha Images in Caves

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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.

Many kinds of Buddha images call the limestone caves home. The much more famous Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) on a hill above Kanchanaburi really draws tourists. While they’re fighting for space to take selfies, you could manage to have a chamber all to yourself at Wat Tham Khaopoon.

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Kanchanaburi

1.1 Orientation
2.2 By train
2.4 By limousine taxi
2.5 By minibus
3 Get around
4.1 World War II
4.2 Notable temples
4.3.1 Along the Death Railway
4.4 Itinerary
4.5 Events and festivals
5.1 Massage
6.1 Department stores & supermarkets
7.2 Mid-range
9.2 Mid-range
9.3 Splurge

Kanchanaburi ( Thai : กาญจนบุรี) is a city at the confluence of the Rivers Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai.

Understand [ edit ]

For most visitors the main sight of interest is the Bridge over the River Kwai , as the start of the infamous World War II Death Railway to Burma (now Myanmar ), as well as the many associated museums. There is an increasingly thriving backpacker scene taking advantage of the chilled-out riverside vibe for those who want to get away from Bangkok. Kanchanaburi is also the gateway to the surrounding province of the same name. More foreign visitors are discovering why Thais know it as one of the most beautiful provinces in the country with its easily accessible waterfalls and national parks.

Orientation [ edit ]

Orienting yourself in Kanchanaburi is very easy. The main road, Saeng Chuto Road , runs the length of town from north to south, connecting the River Kwai Bridge, the train station, and the bus station. Running parallel to this, closer to the river, is Mae Nam Kwae Road where most of the guest houses and the local bar scene can be found.

Tourist Authority of Thailand , Saeng Chuto Rd ( Just south of the bus terminal ). 08:00-16:00 daily . Distributes a useful free map of the city and province.

Get in [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

BKS public buses (line 81) leave from Bangkok 's Southern Bus Terminal ( Sai Tai Taling Chan สายใต้ตลิ่งชัน), which is far west in the suburb of Thonburi . In Kanchanaburi, there are two separate but nearby bus terminals, with 1st class buses departing from an office off Saengchuto Rd, and 2nd class buses from the larger terminal one block east.

1st class buses leave Bangkok every 15 minutes from 05:00-22:30, take about 2 hours, and cost 110 baht , including a bottle of water.
2nd class buses (new route) leave Bangkok every 20 minutes from 03:30-19:00 and take about 2 hours. Cost 110 baht . (They now claim that there is no 2nd class bus going to Kanchanaburi, yet there is, but they charge the same price as for the 1st class bus.
2nd class buses (old route) leave Bangkok every 15-30 minutes from 04:00-18:00 and take about 3 hours.

There are also tourist minibuses directly to/from Khao San Road , departing Kanchanaburi at 13:30 and 18:30.

There are also some buses leaving less frequently from Bangkok's Northern Mo Chit bus terminal (note: not the same as Mo Chit BTS station, and not within walking distance of it, although a standard 50 baht motorbike taxi ride is available. It's called "Mo Chit 2"). Here are the times (approximate):

First-class bus with toilet (3 hours, 122 baht): 06:00, 11:00, 14:30.

Second-class bus with no toilet inside (not sure about time and price, times are probably the same): 05:00, 07:00, 09:30, 12:30, 17:00.

Bus rides may be variable or cancelled (for example, with 14:30 being last of the day.) But there are vans available at the bus station leaving even when you're told there's no way to get there by bus! It may pay to talk to the information desk about this. Price is around 120 baht, about 2 hr.

From Nakhon Pathom , there are direct buses (2nd class only) every 15 to 30 minutes between 04:00 and 18:00, which take two hours. Alternatively, you can hop off a 1st class bus when it passes by Nakhon Pathom, but double-check with staff to ensure the route allows this and they know your plans.

From Sangkhlaburi to Kanchanaburi, you're spoilt for choice:

Air-con VIP buses leave at 08:45, 10:45, and 14:30 and take 4 hours.
Air-con minibuses leave at 06:30, 07:30, 11:30, 13:00, 15:30 and take 3.5 hours.
Standard buses leave at 06:45, 08:15, 10:15, 13:15 and take 5 hours.

By train [ edit ]

Trains leave Bangkok 's Thonburi Train Station at 07:45 and arrive at Kanchanaburi at 10:20, with another at 13:45, arriving at 16:35. You may be interested in buying a ticket all the way to the River Kwai Bridge , since these two trains are the only ones which cross the bridge each day. 100 baht for foreigners (Dec 2023).

Be warned that reaching Thonburi Station from Khao San Rd is harder than it looks. Tuk-tuk drivers will try to charge you outrageous rates, and walking involves crossing two bridges and looping back. The best way is probably to take the passenger boat from Phra Arthit Pier to connect with a cross-river ferry that reaches the Thonburi Railway Pier (first one M-F 06:00 Sa 07:30 Su 09:00). Then walk or take the open minibus from there. You can also walk a bit away from Khao San Rd and find a metered taxi that will not rip you off. The fare should be about 70 or 80 baht from Khao San on the meter.

Return trains leave at 07:25 and 14:48 from the main railway station. From the River Kwai Bridge they leave 6 minutes earlier. Riding 3rd class is an adventure in itself, and definitely recommended.

Both train services continue to/from Nam Tok, the current terminus of the Death Railway. The normal trains will charge "farang" (Westerners) 100 baht in each direction from Kanchanaburi to Wang Pho, the last station before Nam Tok. Thais pay a lot less.

The 10:30 train has a special tourist section, where the tourist price of 300 baht gets you air-con, a soft drink, and a certificate of having ridden the Death Railway.

One of the least expensive ways to get from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is to take a train from Thonburi to Ban Pong for 14 baht (same price for Thais and foreigners), then from Ban Pong take an air conditioned bus to Kanchanaburi for 40 baht, a total of 54 baht .

By car [ edit ]

Kanchanaburi is about 3 hours' drive from Bangkok, via Hwy 4 (Phetkasem)from Bangkok until it hooks up with Hwy 323, which will take you all the way to Kanchanaburi.

You can catch a taxi to Kanchanaburi and return to Bangkok for the day for around 1,700 baht. This should include stopping at the bridge over River Kwai and museum, Kanchanaburi township, the local dam and POW cemetery. You may need to pay a bit extra to visit Erawan Falls and the Tiger Temple, which is about an hour out of the town.

By limousine taxi [ edit ]

Bangkok Airport limousines are a comfortable and swift means of travel between Thailand's capitol and Kanchanaburi. Fares in luxury Japanese sedans are typically from 3,000-3,500 baht.

By minibus [ edit ]

Day trips from Bangkok are commonly sold at Bangkok travel agencies. Typically, these include Toyota minibus transport from one's hotel to Kanchanaburi and back (visiting the famous bridge, Erawan National Park, etc., depending on the package), and perhaps lunch and entrance fees. One example: approximately 1,100 baht for transport, lunch, entrance fees to Erawan National Park, and the famous bridge.

Get around [ edit ]

Kanchanaburi is just a little too stretched out to comfortably walk. Small orange and large yellow songthaews (converted pickups) cruise up and down Saeng Chuto, connecting bus station, train station, and the bridge, and charge a standard 10 baht . Motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks are also available, with negotiable prices, and some guesthouses offer bicycle rentals. A number of places in town (mostly along Maenam Kwai Rd) rent bicycles for 50 baht/day, or motorcycles for 150-200 baht, depending on whether it is an automatic. In the area near budget accommodations/guesthouses such as Ploy, you can rent bicycles or motorcycles from Yanee at 197 Maenumkaew Rd. Remember to ask for a map and directions to popular sights.

See [ edit ]

World war ii [ edit ].

Most of the sights in Kanchanaburi itself are directly related to the Pacific War . The museums are dusty and generally not worth it, except for the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, which gives a good introduction of the Death Railway and its history. There are also two war cemeteries, the most moving of which is the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

14.0409 99.5037 1 Bridge over the River Kwai ( Saphan Mae Nam Kwae ) ( Some 3 km north of Kanchanaburi, down New Zealand Rd, off Saeng Chuto Rd ). This iron bridge across the Kwai Yai River is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous Death Railway to Burma , constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during WWII. Some 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most of them enslaved) died during railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but two central box spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing. You can cross the bridge on foot on the central steel-plated walkway. There are small cantilevered platforms between the spans for better views and avoiding trains. The guardrails are incomplete, so be careful with small children. Off the end of the bridge, you can feed or ride an elephant bare-back at negotiated price of 600 baht per ride. It's reported that elephant is tethered on a short chain and has to stand in its own waste. Use your judgement. The bridge is still in use and there is a station right next to it. Trains run from Nam Tok (the train line's terminus) to River Kwai Bridge station (a little over 2 hours away) and then onward to Kanchanaburi and Bangkok. Food and souvenirs are available at the bridge. The walk to the bridge is not particularly pleasant (if you fancy a long walk, save it for the less crowded other side of the bridge), but songthaews (10 baht) run along the main road (Saeng Chuto Rd) from the centre. You'll know when to get off when you see the railway line cross the road. Then just follow the track.
Death Railway ( ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ ). The strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. Total length in Thai territory was 300 km. The railway took only one year to complete, from October 1942–October 1943. After the war, some lengths of track were demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. ( updated Feb 2019 )
14.00503 99.51436 2 Chungkai War Cemetery ( Either bargain with a taxi or rent a bicycle to get there; it's on the west side of the river ). A neatly maintained small cemetery 2 km out of town.

14.03122 99.52567 4 Kanchanaburi War Cemetery ( สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก ), Saeng Chuto Rd ( Opposite the railway station ). 07:00-14:00 . This is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway to Burma. All POWs at this site are from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Australia. After WWII, the Allies moved all the buried POWs along the railway line to two war cemeteries in Kanchanaburi so as to be easier to maintain. The graves are set in straight lines with neatly mown lawns, and some have moving personal inscriptions. Exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a sombre yet peaceful reminder of what happened. Free . ( updated Feb 2019 )
14.03232 99.52478 5 Thailand-Burma Railway Centre , 73 Jaokannun Rd ( Next to Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, near the south of Mae Nam Khae Rd ), ☏ +66 3 451 2721 . 09:00-17:00 daily . Generally considered to be the best source of information regarding World War II in Thailand, railway construction and route, and the conditions endured by POWs and Asian labourers. Very moving exhibits, including video and interactive displays. A visit takes at least one hour, and probably longer if you want to read everything. Fee includes a free coffee or tea at upstairs cafe, where you can sit at the window bench overlooking the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. It is a good place to sit and reflect after your tour of the centre. Far superior to the JEATH War Museum. 140 baht .
14.04135 99.50488 6 World War II Museum and Art Gallery , Mae Nam Khwae Rd ( about 50 m from the Bridge over the River Kwai ). 8:30-17:30 daily . This well-signposted complex houses a bizarre collection of museums and exhibits, most of which are poorly maintained and labelled. To your left as you enter is the "War Museum", a 4 storey building encrusted with statues, which starts off with a little Burmese shrine but is mostly devoted to pre-WWII Thai history through the ages and is filled with wall paintings of kings and racks of rusty pistols. There are good views of the bridge from the roof of the riverside building. Above the WWII museum is the most bizarre section, housing (among other things) dusty stamp collections and a gallery with wall paintings of all Miss Thailand winners. The WWII and (old) Jeath Museum is lurking in the basement. 40 baht .
Hell Fire Pass Memorial Museum ( ช่องเขาขาดพิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งความทรงจำ ). Established by the Australian Government, it houses a theatre and collection of photographs, equipment, and utensils used during the construction of the Death Railway. ( updated Feb 2019 )

Notable temples [ edit ]

13.9694 99.5774 7 Wat Ban Tham ( the Temple of the Golden Dragon ).
Don Chedi archaeological site
Wat Tham Khao Noi
Wat Tham Khaopoon, 5 km out of town (past Chongkai War Cemetery). 20 baht entrance fee to cave complex with Buddha images.
Wat Tham Mungkornthong
Wat Tham Sua

Around Kanchanaburi [ edit ]

The area northwest of Kanchanaburi is dominated by beautiful River Kwai valleys. It is an area of great natural beauty, with a dazzling number of waterfalls, caves, lakes, and mountainous scenery. Most attractions can be visited as a day-trip from Kanchanaburi. Independent travel is possible for most attractions, but can be a hassle as local trains and buses are slow and inflexible. If you want to see Hellfire Pass and the Erawan Falls in one day, it's almost compulsory to take one of the guided tours as there is no public bus connection between them.

13.963655 99.74415 8 LHM Motorcycle Museum ( near Wat Tha Rua in Tha Maka District ), ☏ +66 34 561 028 . M-Sa 08:00-17:00 . Unusual museum owned by the Lo Heng Mong motorbike shop. In business for more than 50 years, the business has kept an example of most motorcycles they have sold over that period. Most motorcycles are small-displacement scooters. ฿80/50 Foreigners/Thai . ( updated Dec 2016 )
Sai Yok National Park ( อุทยานแห่งชาติไทรโยค ). A park since 1980, most of the area is limestone mountains with mixed deciduous forest. It is a former site of a Japanese camp during WWII as evident from traces of stoves. The park is home to the world's smallest species of bat. ( updated Feb 2019 )
Mueang Sing Historical Park or Prasat Mueang Sing ( อุทยานประวัติศาสตร์เมืองสิงห์ or ปราสาทเมืองสิงห์ ). The laterite sanctuary was constructed in the late Lop Buri Period, c.11–13th centuries CE. Influenced by ancient Khmer culture, its principal tower is encircled by a laterite wall, moat, and earthen mound. It was built in a mixture of the folk school of art and Bayon-style of King Jayavarman VII's period in Cambodia. ( updated Feb 2019 )

Along the Death Railway [ edit ]

While most visitors see the spectacular Erawan Falls, the Sai Yok Noi Falls are more accessible, because they are on the road to Sangkhlaburi . The Sai Yok Yai Falls are further away from Kanchanaburi on the same road. But beside the falls, the national park is home to limestone caves and hot springs as well. And it can easily be combined with the Hellfire Pass Memorial.

Hellfire Pass . Only relocated in the 1980s, Konyu Cutting (known as Hellfire Pass by POWs and Asian labourers who cut and blasted through rock by hand to clear this pass for the Death Railway) has been reclaimed from the jungle as a profound war memorial funded by the Australian government. Excellent museum and self-guided walking tour facilities are available (donations welcome). Highly recommended. The descent through the jungle down to the pass (listening to oral histories through audio headsets) is a moving experience. Before leaving, take a moment to reflect at the peace lookout overlooking the beautiful Kwai Noi Valley. More challenging walking options are available. Annual Anzac Day Dawn Service are held here. 80 km northwest of Kanchanaburi. For a day trip, consider taking the morning train from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok (2.5 hr), then samlor to the memorial (20 min); return by bus (1 hr) or afternoon train. Nam Tok to the Museum is quite a distance. It may be that your only option is a bus from the main road, which means walking from the station to there. Songthaews may be available. ( updated Feb 2019 )
Tiger Temple ( Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yanasampanno (วัดป่าหลวงตาบัว ญาณสัมปันโน) ). Popularly known as the Tiger Temple , is the biggest tourist trap of the region. Admission starts at 600 baht per person, but depending on the "experience" you'd like, goes as high as 5,000 baht. The temple is nowhere to be seen, but the tigers are lounging in a dusty canyon, surrounded by minders in yellow shirts and overseen by a monk off in the corner. When they are not sitting unnaturally still, the tigers are kept in barren concrete cells. You can watch the tigers from a distance, and when your time comes, the minders will take your camera and snap a few photos of you crouching behind the dazed tiger, as well as a few close-ups of the tigers themselves. You can also pay a 1,000 baht extra for a "special" photo with a tiger, where you can have the head of a semi-unconscious one put in your lap. It's all kind of odd, but the pictures will certainly wow your friends, unless they value animal welfare over souvenirs, in which case you might seriously disappoint them. Unverified reports of a tourist being seriously mauled by the tigers abound, although it is only common sense to not annoy tigers. A few years of domestication will not erase centuries of innate wildness. Also, you are not allowed to wear bright yellow, pink, or orange tee shirts, or they will not allow you inside. You must also sign a release form, just in case you're harmed by the many animals at the temple (there are also water buffalo and deer roaming the parkland). You must bring your own camera, because the trainers do not have any. The tiger temple is off the road heading to Sai Yok. you can take a bus heading towards Sai Yok or Sangkhlaburi. There is a sign about 1 km before the Tiger Temple. Once you see the sign make a big fuss and run up to the front of the bus and motion that you want to get off. The temple itself is about 1-2 km down the side road. to get back to Kanchanaburi, you can either try and flag down a bus on the main road going towards Kanchanaburi or you might be able to buy a ride with one of the minibus tour groups. you can also rent a motorcycle and ride there yourself. There have been reports from Tiger Temple volunteer workers and staff released that the tigers were maltreated and abused by the abbot of the temple and his staff. A 2008 report from the British conservation group Care for the Wild International (CWI) reveals disturbing evidence of animal abuse and illegal tiger trafficking at the temple. It has since been revealed that the animals are drugged on a daily basis, although there are some travellers reporting otherwise. There are numerous conservation and animal welfare groups campaigning against the controversial Tiger Temple, which has a track record of ill-treatment of the animals, including tigers disappearing in trucks during the night. If you'd like to ignore the warnings of many travelers before you, as well as the reports of conservation experts, then to get to the temple, you can approach a songthaew driver at the bus terminal and ask to hire him for an afternoon as you should best visit the temple then and not in the morning. He should charge about 700 baht for a hire from 13:00-18:00. ( updated Feb 2019 )

Erawan National Park ( อุทยานแห่งชาติเอราวัณ ). Formerly called Khao Salop National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสลอบ), it was proclaimed a national park on 19 June 1975, with an area of 373,735 rai (597,976,000 m 2 ). Later, its name was changed to Erawan National Park as the highest level of the waterfall, Namtok Erawan, looks like Elephant Erawan's head. ( updated Feb 2019 ) The Erawan Falls are contenders for the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand, and a must-see if time and budget allow. Entrance fee is 300 baht for foreign adults and 150 for children under fourteen. The falls are composed of seven tiers, all of which are picturesque and great for swimming. Plan to spend at least two hours hiking plus the time you want to spend swimming in the falls. Don't come unprepared. Wear a swimsuit and bring sunblock, since you'll want to have a dip in the turquoise pools on most levels. Don't forget to bring a towel. When swimming, watch out for fish feasting on the soles of your feet. They won't hurt you and are only looking for a meal on dead skin cells, but the feeling can be disconcerting. Everyone can do the hike, but don't underestimate it. Good shoes will make the trip more pleasant, though flip flops are commonly worn. At the highest levels, one may have to walk through shallow water. The first four tiers are relatively close together and the walk is very straightforward. For the more adventurous, there is a large rock at the fourth tier that can be used as a water slide. Beyond the fifth tier, the hike will become slightly more difficult. The sixth and seventh tiers are not far from each other, but the paths are not well defined at this point, so be sure to look for the hard-to-spot signs. Additionally, beware of hornets at the top tier. Bicycles can be rented at the entrance for 20 baht/hr, however you can only bike to the first level, which is only a 5 min walk, so they aren't really useful. Many Thais don't go further than the second level as beyond this food and beverages, except a water bottle after leaving a deposit, are not allowed. If you walk on the right hill side of the road leading to the park gate, rather than the road itself, you will pass nice bamboo forest and you won't be asked to pay entrance fee, since they collect it only at the toll gate if you enter by main road. Getting there : Public transport: Public Bus 8170 leaves the Kanchanaburi bus terminal every 50-60 min between 08:00-17:50. The fare is 60 baht(Dec 2023) and the ride takes ~90 min. If you stay far away north from the bus terminal, and you probably will, you can just walk to Saeng Chuto Rd from your guesthouse and hail the bus there. A good spot to hail from is right next to the war cemetery. Be sure to get an early bus, since there will be fewer people at the falls and you won't have to hurry to get back. The last bus leaves for Kanchanaburi at 16:30.(August 2023) This bus is small and rudimentary and can get completely full and this can be an uncomfortable experience if you don't get a seat (if you're tall you may not be able to fully stand). For the ride back to Kanchanaburi the schedule is: 08:30, 10:00, noon, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00 (as read from sign at stop, edited 1/2018). Transport tour: Tour agencies in Bangkok commonly sell a package that includes Toyota minibus transport from your Bangkok hotel to the falls and back, with lunch and the park entrance fee of 300 baht included, for 1,100 baht. The packages are generally standardised and non-negotiable in price. Some tours also include a stop at the Bridge over the River Kwai, so inquire. Tour packages that visitors can purchase from the nearby hotels/resorts in Kanchanaburi may include a stop to the Erawan waterfalls and other selected tourist attractions such as elephant riding, bamboo rafting, Tiger Temple and Hellfire Pass. These packages cost around 1,600 baht and include all transportation to and from the resort, park fees, lunch and an English-speaking guide. Sleeping :It is possible to spend the night in the national park, meaning you get to experience the falls without the day tripper crowds. Camping sites are available on a nice green area by the riverside. The national park rents out tents from 50-300 baht (for the biggest). The park also rents out accessories such as sleeping bags, lanterns, and stoves for a very small amount. The accommodation services office is just past the car park. Bungalows are also available from 800 baht. For food, try the market which is a one km walk back up the road towards the highway. There it is also possible to find cheaper snacks, drinks or other items. Just remember to bring your park ticket with you to prove you have already paid. If staying in the park, there are also restaurants on the side of the parking lot of the park. Do note that they close around 18:00-19:00.
Srinakarind National Park ( อุทยานแห่งชาติเขื่อนศรีนครินทร์ ). It was made a national park on 23 December 1981. It has an area of 953,500 rai (1,496,800,000 m 2 ). Attractions include Tham (cave) Sawan (ถ้ำสวรรค์), Tham Neramit (ถ้ำเนรมิต), Tham Nam Mut (ถ้ำน้ำมุด), Tham Phra Prang (ถ้ำพระปรางค์), Namtok (waterfall) Huai Mae Khamin (น้ำตกห้วยแม่ขมิ้น). Another area of beautiful natural scenery is the Srinakarind Reservoir, which is right behind the Srinakarind Dam . Unfortunately, there is no public bus service here. The beginning of this waterway is called Lumnam Jone , which is the headwaters of the famous River Kwai. It has some beautiful surroundings and crystal clear water. It is hard to get to: on foot it will take a few hours walk, and by boat it takes around 5 hr from the ferry pier at Srinakarind Dam. Lumnam Jone can only be reached by one tour operator to limit the amount of visitors to the region. The trip takes two days and one night and can only be booked for the first weekend of the month. Some other interesting sights in the area are the Phra That Cave , the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls and the Tham Than Lot Cave . The Srinakarind Dam has a nice cafe serving mostly Thai food and is open every day. The area has two main ethnic groups, Thais and Karen. There are several villages of mostly Karen people in Naasuan of Amphoe Sri Sawat. Near the amphoe is a small Mon village. Beyond Ong Sit village and off a side road is a Lao village called Jerot. The villagers originally came here to help clear the forest when the dam was built and ended up settling in the area. Although many of the Karen women do a wonderful job of weaving (sarongs, blouses, bags), there is no local shop that sells these products. Occasionally there will be a house that will have items for sale, but they may be hard to find. ( updated Feb 2019 )
Elephants and Friends Conservation Camp , ☏ +66 85 8475996 . The camp has the goal of helping mistreated, sick, and old elephants in Thailand and to give them a good home. As a visitor you will help in the daily care of the elephants, such as riding them (bare back) to the river for their bath, growing or collecting food (banana trees), or just playing with them. It's impossible to get there by public transport. You can get there by (rented) motorbike or arrange a pick-up from Lat Ya or Kanchanaburi. If you want to come and help, the only way to make a reservation is to call Phot Nadee, the owner, who speaks English. With him you can make an arrangement for a pick-up.
Taweechai Elephant Camp ( easy to get to from Kanchanaburi, essentially a straight line drive for 40 km along Rte 3199. There are English road signs indicating the camp. If coming by bus, take Bus 8170 bound for Erawan Falls and tell it to stop at Taweechai. You'll need to take a motorcycle taxi to the camp for 30 baht ), ☏ +66 17 748301 . One of the largest elephant camps. Home to nearly 30 elephants, including one born in late-2009, Taweechai offers elephant rides, bathing with elephants (suitable for children), bamboo rafting (swimming optional) and special elephant training mahout courses. You can also buy photo frames made from elephant dung. The camp is well-maintained and nicely decorated. For example, it features the mounted skeleton of a 100 year old elephant. The elephants are well-treated and fed almost constantly. The camp owns large areas of nearby forest and at 16:00 the elephants leave the camp to spend the night wandering and grazing. They are given a very long chain so as not to be confined and in the mornings they are usually very dirty. Taweechai is halfway along the route from Kanchanaburi to the Erawan Falls and so can be included in a day trip to the falls. The majority of Western tourists have not yet discovered the camp as it seems to be visited almost exclusively by Thai and Russian tour groups. It is very busy so calling ahead to book is a good idea for groups. For couples or small groups it may be possible to turn up and ride, particularly in the low season. Admission prices vary depending on activity and group size so again it is a good idea to call ahead .

Itinerary [ edit ]

Independent-minded travellers may wish to hire a songthaew at the bus station the day before you want to travel. It should cost between 1,500-2,000 baht, and you tell the driver where you want to go. He will pick you up from your hotel in the morning as part of the deal and return you there afterwards.

For your day out, check out Hellfire Pass and the museum, 80 km from Kachanaburi. Take a couple of hours or more there, then come back along the same road to Nam tok Saiyoknoi waterfall. Erewan Waterfall is too far away for this trip but well worth a look, and there is also an old preserved steam locomotive. From there ask to go to Wang Pho village, and make sure to get the driver to stop at a market along the way to buy bulk peanuts/bananas because you want to see "ling ling" ("ling" is Thai for "monkey", and the repetition means a lot of them) On the road down to Wang Pho, the driver should veer off to the left near the bottom of the winding road leading towards the River Kwai. Here there are millions of wild monkeys or at least an awful lot of them. Enjoy yourself feeding them peanuts or bananas, they are not aggressive. You can watch all the tour buses driving past this little-known attraction. However, feeding monkeys disrupts their natural feeding habits and can make them reliant on humans for food. So, it's probably better just to watch the monkeys in their natural environment.

In Wang Pho village, take time to have a look at the place. The Death Railway has a station here, the final one before Nam Tok. The villagers are friendly, and one stall does a really good fried banana. Then go to Tam Grasae, a cave a couple of kilometres distant where the railway crosses a trestle bridge built by WWII POWs. It appears to be in original condition. The River Kwai is immediately below you, and the trestle hugs the side of the cliff in skirting it. The cave itself is well worth a look. There is a tourist market here also.

On the way back, on the main road to Kanchanaburi, depending on the time you have left, there is a temple on the way back on the right where the monks are friendly to tourists, and then the Tiger Temple on the left further along.

Events and festivals [ edit ]

Mineral Water and Waterfall Bathing Day (งานวันอาบน้ำแร่แช่น้ำตก) ; held at Hin Dat Hot Spring, at the beginning of November. In the festival, there are booths of agricultural products and tourism exhibition of Thong Pha Phum District. Visitors watching will have a chance to bathe in the Hin Dat Hot Spring and enjoy the view of Namtok Pha Tat.

Boat and Raft People's Day (งานเทศกาลชาวเรือชาวแพ) ; held every year at the beginning of November at Song Khwae Road near the riverside in front of the city of Kanchanaburi. Activities are folk performances, Thai typical music performance, academic exhibition concerning conservation of rivers and canals, water sports such as riding long-boat, speed-boat and jet-skiing.

River Kwae Bridge Week (งานสัปดาห์สะพานข้ามแม่น้ำแคว) ; held every year around the end of November until the beginning of December to commemorate the significance of the Death Railway and the Bridge over the Khwae River taking place in World War II. Visitors can see the historical and archaeological exhibition, folk performances, booths of products, entertaining activities, and light and sound show.

Do [ edit ]

Massage [ edit ]

There are many massage parlours along Mae Nam Khwae Rd in Kanchanaburi.

Azure Comsaed River Kwai Resort & Spa , ☏ +66 34 631443 , fax : +66 34 589094 .
14.041843 99.499354 1 FicusSpa , Felix River Kwai Resort, Block C, 9/1 Moo 3, Thamakham Amphur Meung ( at Felix River Kwai Resort, walking distance from the bridge, on the opposite side of the touristy area ), ☏ +66 34 551 137 , [email protected] . 10:00-22:00 . A modern day spa set amidst lush tropical gardens beside the tranquil River Kwai (next to bridge). Spa facilities consist of 16 beds with private rooms, guest showers, and trained therapists. 560 baht . ( updated Apr 2015 )
Foot & Thai Massage , 228/2 Tamakam Rd ( Diagonally opposite Yanee (bicycle or motorbike rental) ), ☏ +66 87 1666381 .
Pung Waan Resort and Spa , 72/1 Moo 2, Thamakham , ☏ +66 34 514792-5 , fax : +66 34 515830 .
Rest & Relax Massage ( Mae Nom Kwae Rd next to Bell's Pizza ). Comfortable and relaxing interior. Convenient location. Variety of services offered. Massage starts at 150 baht/hr .

Tour [ edit ]

Animal Safari , 40/2 Moo 5, Nongkum , ☏ +66 34 678 225 , [email protected] . See tigers, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, binturongs (bearcats). Western volunteers ensure animal welfare is constantly being improved. Minimum stay, 1 week. Volunteers pay €140 (5,356 baht) per week .
14.0736 99.47202 2 River Kwai Canoe ( Kayaking ), 11 Maenamkwai Rd, Tha Ma Kham, Mueang Kanchanaburi , ☏ +66 87 001 9137 , [email protected] . Guided and self-guided canoe trips in the Kanchanaburi area. Trips can be arranged.

Buy [ edit ]

There are plenty of ATMs, with a 150–200 baht surcharge for using foreign cards.
Night Market ( Also known as JJ's ) ( In front of the train station on Saeng Chuto Rd ). Nothing out of the ordinary, but quite cheap food as it's geared to locals.
River Kwai Bookshop , 293 Maenam Kwai Rd ( opposite Im-Jung open-air restaurant ), ☏ +66 34 511819 . 12:30–21:00, closed W . Thousands of new and used books, categorized for easy browsing, including author-signed titles. Books bought, sold, exchanged. Ordering service. Also 2 big roofed river rafts on River Kwai for overnight (sleep aboard or ashore), day or half-day private hire. Dinner cruise, disco, karaoke, educational field trip, just viewing, or lazing in a hammock with a good book amidst idyllic river and mountain scenery.
River Kwai Park Market ( next to the bridge ). Dozens of stalls selling touristy knick-knacks, but quite a few Thais seem to come here for jewellery shopping as well.

Department stores & supermarkets [ edit ]

Big C Super Center , Saeng Chuto Rd ( north part of town ). Has a big department store & supermarket ( updated Sep 2015 )
Tesco Lotus ( Saeng Chuto Rd, to the south of town ). 08:00-23:00 . Large hypermarket. There is also a Tesco Express on Mae Nam Kwai Road.
Tops Market Robinson , 110 Pak Phraek . Daily 10:00-21:00 . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

For cheap street eats, the market in front of the train station will fulfil all your 10 baht pad Thai needs. Street vendors parade up & down River Kwai Rd all day & night. Approximately 20 baht per serving. Many stop outside of 7-Eleven by Jolly Frog selling sausages, roti, and other small snacks. Ice cream and pastries during the day.

Jok Isaan Thai Food . This small entirely Thai-run place doesn't actually have a name but all the locals know Jok makes some of the best food. Her location changed in early 2011 to a small, clean, building right next to the large reggae bar, Land Pole. She specialises in Isaan dishes such as lab, som tom, gai yang, and khao niew.
Jolly Frog Restaurant , 286 Maenamkwai Rd , ☏ +66 93 232 1501 . 07:00-22:00 . Huge menu. Lots of Thai and Western food at low prices. Fried rice with beef or pork 40 baht, egg salad 40 baht, pizza, vegetarian selection, beer from 45 baht . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

Bell's Pizzeria , 24/5 Maenamkwai Rd , ☏ +66 81 010 6614 . 16:00-23:00 . Italian and Thai food. Bar during the afternoon. 170-220 baht for a pizza .
Floating restaurants ( next to the River Kwai Bridge ). These seem to uphold the fine traditions of their brethren worldwide by serving mediocre food at inflated prices although some travellers find the food good and the price reasonable. Nice views and great atmosphere though. However, the main problem is transport back into town if you are staying there. The river and bridge are a little distant unless you are really into walking (there are songthaews though).
Good Times Restaurant . Good Times Restaurant is open between 10:00 to 22:00 daily for lunch and dinner. The restaurant, overlooking the River Kwai with beautiful sunset view, is very popular for both locals and foreigners, with both Thai and international cuisines. Cocktails menu and Thai dessert menu. Signatures dishes there include Fried Fish with Fish Sauce Thai Style, Tom Yum Kung and Fried Banana Balls. It's inside a 40-room lodge with a garden and pond. Room rates are between 1,500 baht to 2,300 baht.
Mangosteen Cafe and Books , 13 Maenamkwai Rd , ☏ +66 63 639 6536 . Daily 08:30-17:00 . Thai and Western food with good service. Great coffees, apple pie, cocktails and fresh fruit drinks. One of the cleanest and best run places on the strip. Also 1,000 English language books for sale and small reference library for cafe guests.
Schluck , 222 Mahadthai Road , ☏ +66 81 355 9477 . Daily 17:00-23:00 . Western and Thai food. Pizza and steak are home-made. Euro-oriental décor and jazz music. from 40 baht for Thai food, 90 baht for European-style food .

Drink [ edit ]

There are many places where you'll be able to enjoy drinks, but most of the bars are close to the guest houses along Mae Nam Kwai Rd . Most of the bars are noisy karaoke bars popular among the locals or the usual British pubs with football on TV. Some bars have young Thai ladies on the hunt for rich foreigners.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are lots of guesthouses, resorts and hotels available. The density increases the nearer you get to the bridge. As usual if you book in advance they will arrange a free pick up service for you. If you haven't done so yet, you should try one night in a raft room floating on the river.

Apple's Guesthouse , 153/4 Sutjai Bridge Moo 4 Thamakham ( at the south end of Mae Nam Khai Rd ), ☏ +66 34 512 017 . This guesthouse features a bunch of rooms adjacent to a nice big garden outside. The rooms are fairly spacious and luxurious, and contain a hot shower. Rooms have either fan or air-con rooms, with the fan-rooms being cheaper. Rooms do not feature TVs, due to the owner's environmental concerns. There is a good restaurant attached as well, but breakfast is lacking. Portions are small, it is served late (not before 07:30) and it is not included in the room price. 490-690 baht .
Bluestar Guesthouse , 241 Maenamkwae Rd., Thamakham ( between the two 7-Elevens ), ☏ +66 64 984 4329 . Near Sud Chai Bridge, all rooms with private toilet. Wi-Fi streams from the main counter. About half the rooms are within range. 200-450-550-750 baht .
Nita Raft House , 27/1 Pak Parek Rd , ☏ +66 34 514521 . Check-out: 12:00 . Fan single and double rooms with shared baths. Single 150, double 200. .
Ploy Resort , 79/2 Mae Nam Kwai Rd , ☏ +66 90 964 2653 . All rooms in Siam-style with air-con, private toilet and hot shower. Restaurant/bar with river view. Walled garden outside your room with incorporated open-air shower. Double rooms from 550 baht (Internet rate) or 650 baht, including coffee and toast for breakfast .
Pong Phen Guesthouse , Soi Bangklated, River Kwai Rd , ☏ +66 34 512 981 , [email protected] . Swimming pool, motorbike hire, shuttle/taxi services to Bangkok & the local area, and local sightseeing tours. Friendly staff, Wi-Fi, movie screenings on a large TV at 18:00. The reception is shared with the restaurant and is a good place to meet other guests. 400-950 baht .
Rainbow Lodge , 48/5 Soi Rong Heep Aoi, Chao Kunnan Rd T ( Head office at See Thailand Travel next to 7-Eleven on River Kwai Rd (Maenumkwa Rd) ), ☏ +66 81 763 0116 , [email protected] . Fan single room with outside bathroom. fan double room with outsidebathroom. Peaceful location right on the banks of the River Kwai. 5 min stroll from main tourist street. Call on arrival for free pick up. single 100. double 200 baht .
14.03507 99.51771 1 Sam's Guesthouse , 14/2 Moo 1 Maenawkwae Rd , ☏ +66 95 931 6193 , [email protected] . All rooms come with air-con, most are wooden bungalows in a quiet area on the River Kwai. 400-1,000 baht .
Tamarind Guesthouse , 29/1 Thamakham Rd ( close to the night market ), ☏ +66 34 518 790 , [email protected] . Rooms overlook the River Kwai. Raft house and new building. Internet and Wi-Fi, travel advice, tours, transfers to other places in Thailand. Friendly staff. fan double 350 baht, a.c. double 500 baht .
VN Guest House , 44 Rong Heeb Oil Rd , ☏ +66 34 514 082 , [email protected] . all rooms have private bathrooms and Free Wi-Fi. rooms with River view add 75 baht. fan double 350 baht, a.c. double 450 baht .
T and T Guest house , 1/14 Maenam Kwai river road ( just south of the Jolly frog. ), ☏ +66 34 514 846 . fan single/double rooms with shared bathrooms single 150 baht, double 250 baht .
Asleep hostel . ( updated Dec 2022 )
Kasem Island Resort , 44-48 Chaichumphon Rd, Chukadon Pier River Kwai , ☏ +66 88 336 8822 . Fan-rafting rooms or air-con rooms with private balcony overlooking the River Kwai. An island resort on the River Kwai. Rooms for 2-3 persons.
River Kwai Hotel , 284/15-16 Saeng Chuto Rd ( Mid-way between the bus and train stations ), ☏ +66 34 510 111 . Centrally located hotel with a really good breakfast Thai or Western. Was once the city's fanciest hotel but now it's getting a little long in the tooth. Large swimming pool, an OK restaurant. If you want to be adventurous, better walk to the railway station some 600 m distant, turn right as you leave the hotel, go around the night market, and eat there cheaply, because this is where the locals shop and eat. Internet café, though more expensive than many other nearby cafes, beer garden, dubious massage/karaoke bar and disco. 1,000 baht .
River Kwai Jungle Rafts . Floating rooms in the heart of the jungle near Saiyok Kanchanaburi.
Saiyok River House , ☏ +66 34 591 050 . Rooms are for two persons, three persons & six persons. There is a three-bedroom house for couples or a family.

Splurge [ edit ]

Felix River Kwai Resort , 9/1 Moo3, Thamakham , ☏ +66 34 551 000 . Walking distance from the bridge, just on the opposite side from the main touristy area. Nice, well-maintained facilities, with several restaurants, Internet access in the lobby, massage parlour, air-con rooms. From 1,418 baht .
Nakakiri River Kwai Resort , Hin Dat , ☏ +66 83 113 8763 . One of the largest River Kwai resorts. You can enjoy their hot springs, huge ATV track, giant swimming pool, and nearby waterfall, while staying in jungle river raft houses, one of the fancier hotel rooms overlooking the river, or the top locations — poolside or river view villas. From 1,350 baht .
Pavilion Rim Kwai , 234 Thanon Lat Ya-Erawan , ☏ +66 34 513 800 . Beautifully landscaped gardens on the banks of the River Kwai.
Royal River Kwai Resort and Spa , 88 Moo 2 Road Kaeng Sian , ☏ +66 34 670 621 . Great views, OK breakfast, helpful staff but a distance from the town itself. Tranquil environment and twice-daily (10:30 and 14:30) shuttle service that can be booked for the entire afternoon. From 3409 baht .
U Inchantree Resort , 443 Mae Nam Kwai Road Tha Ma Kham ( 5 min walk from the bridge ), ☏ +66 34 521 584 . 26 small but well-equipped modern rooms. Luxury bed and duvet, LCD cable TV, iPod. Friendly attentive staff, restaurant and riverside terrace. Fitness room, library and free Wi-Fi. Located on a bend in the river offering views of the mountains in the distance. From 3500 baht including continental buffet and bespoke breakfast for 2 .

Connect [ edit ]

Most of the guesthouses along Mae Nam Kwai Rd purport to have Wi-Fi. Some of the bars lined up along that road also have Wi-Fi.

Kanchanburi Library , Saeng Chuto road ( 300 m from war cemetery ). Has free internet. There are 10 desktop computers to use. Also has Thai English newspapers. ( updated Sep 2015 )

Go next [ edit ]

Bangkok — most visitors get out where they came from
Nakhon Pathom — the world's largest stupa makes a good pitstop along the way to Bangkok
Sangkhlaburi — last town before the Three Pagodas Pass border crossing into Myanmar
Three Pagodas Pass — the border between Thailand and Myanmar, 4 hours away by bus

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Given the jaw-dropping natural beauty of Kanchanaburi Province (กาญจนบุรี), it seems paradoxical that the region is best known for the horrors of WWII's Death Railway. The provincial capital's war memorials are a mandatory stop before heading deeper into the parks and preserves that comprise the southern end of the Western Forest Complex, one of Asia's largest protected areas. Numerous waterfalls and caves can be reached with minimal effort, but hiking trails plunging into thick jungle also lure hardened adventurers to this wild terrain.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Kanchanaburi Province. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Erawan Waterfall in Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Erawan National Park

Splashing in emerald-green pools under Erawan Falls is the highlight of this very popular 550-sq-km park. Seven tiers of waterfall tumble through the…

Death Railway Bridge

Kanchanaburi

Constructed by POW labour, this 300m-long bridge is heavy with the history of the Thailand–Burma Railway. Its centre was destroyed by Allied bombs in 1945…

Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre

The infamous cutting known as Hellfire Pass was the largest along the length of the Thailand–Burma Railway, and the most deadly for the people forced to…

Sri Nakarin Dam National Park

Visitors to Erawan National Park often find themselves wondering what the waterfall would be like without the hordes. The answer is Namtok Huay Mae Khamin.

Sangkhlaburi's iconic, 447m-long wooden bridge, the largest in Thailand, connects the main town, home mostly to Thai and Karen, with the Mon settlement…

Thailand–Burma Railway Centre

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Wat Ban Tham

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Kanchanaburi Itinerary for 2 or 3 days + Things to do

Find out how to plan the perfect Kanchanaburi itinerary for 2 or 3 days, including how to get there, the best places to stay, and other helpful tips!

Situated about 140 km west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi offers the perfect mix of history, nature, and culture.

From learning about the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway link to walking across the River Kwai Bridge, hiking to the beautiful Erawan Falls, or exploring the many temples, there are so many things to do in Kanchanaburi.

So if you’re visiting soon, keep reading to find out how to plan the best 2 or 3-day Kanchanaburi itinerary.

a train crossing the river kwai bridge Kanchanaburi itinerary

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How long to spend in Kanchanaburi?

I personally think that 3 days in Kanchanaburi is the ideal amount of time to see all the main tourist attractions without any rush. Below is a suggested Kanchanaburi itinerary for 3 days:

Day 1 : Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple), Meena Café, Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek, Wat Ban Tham, Wat Tham Khao Pun, River Kwai Bridge

Day 2 : Erawan Falls, Wat Thaworn Wararam, JJ Night Market

Day 3 : Death Railway Museum, War Cemetery, Tham Krasae Bridge & Cave

Alternatively, if you have only 2 days in Kanchanaburi, you can combine day 2 and day 3 but note that this will only be possible if you hire a private taxi. If you’re using public transportation, it would be best to stay for 3 days.

So for day 2, spend the morning at Erawan Falls and then make sure you arrive at Tham Krasea Bridge & Cave before 1.36 p.m to see the train pass by. For the rest of the afternoon, visit the Death Railway Museum and War Cemetery, Wat Thaworn Wararam, and finally eat dinner at JJ Night Market.

View of rice paddies and river from Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek temple kanchanaburi thailand

Where to Stay in Kanchanaburi?

For ease of getting around, I recommend staying close to Kanchanaburi train station . You’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants here as well as a night market.

Since I was on a budget, I stayed in a private room at Thyme Xeriscape Hostel which is located about 400 meters from both the train and bus stations. The room was very clean and they provided free drinking water, tea, and coffee. They also have dorm rooms if you’re on a much tighter budget.

Alternatively, you can stay at either Natee The Riverfront Hotel or Good Times Resort , both of which cater to mid-range and luxury travelers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KANCHANABURI

How to get to Kanchanaburi?

The most popular way to get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok is to take the train. 3 rd class tickets cost 100 baht per person and can only be purchased on the same day.

The train departs only twice a day at 7.45 a.m and 1.55 p.m from Thon Buri station ( check the updated timetable here ). The total journey takes about 3 hours.

If you want to visit Kanchanaburi as a day trip from Bangkok, you can take the excursion train which is available on Saturdays and Sundays only. You can find more information about the excursion train here .

Bus/Mini-van

If the train schedule doesn’t work for you, you can instead take a bus from Mochit van terminal . Buses depart every hour and tickets cost about 140 baht per person. The total journey takes about 3 hours.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A BUS TO KANCHANABURI

The bus will drop you off at Kanchanaburi bus terminal which is about 2 km from the city center. You can then take the Erawan bus and ask to be dropped off near the train station as this is where most hotels are (tickets should cost around 10 baht).

The view of the river and hills from Wat Ban Tham Kanchanaburi

Getting around Kanchanaburi

The best way to get around during your Kanchanaburi itinerary is to use songthaews. They are usually orange in color and can get you anywhere in the city for cheap.

You’ll usually find the drivers hanging out at the train station. If you want to hire a private songthaew for the whole day, expect to pay around 800 baht.

Another option is to take the public bus but keep in mind that it can be quite challenging to navigate due to the language barrier.

Luckily, I did manage to take the bus from Kanchanaburi to Erawan Falls and back (I’ll explain how to catch the bus below).

Tuk Tuks are also available but cost slightly more than songthaews and buses.

The last option is to take the train. The train station is located in the city center, just a few minutes walk from the Death Railway Museum.

Tickets cost 100 baht for tourists regardless of the distance covered. The only downside is that the train runs only a few times per day, so be sure to check the updated schedule at the train station.

Kanchanaburi Itinerary Day 1

For the first day of your 3 days in Kanchanaburi, hire a private songthaew (800 baht) to visit a few temples, most of which boast breathtaking panoramic views.

I recommend asking your driver to pick you up from your hotel at around 8 a.m so you don’t have to rush through any of the attractions.

Along the way, you’ll check out a beautiful café with picture-perfect rice field views before ending the day at the River Kwai Bridge where you can snap some photos on the train tracks and watch the local train pass through.

Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)

Start your Kanchanaburi itinerary at Wat Tham Suea , also known as Tiger Cave Temple. Since it’s one of the most popular temples in Kanchanaburi be sure to get there early at around 8 or 9 a.m.

Wat Tham Suea is not only famous for its huge gold Buddha but also for its magnificent views. On one side you get a view of Mae Klong River bordered by the mountains, on the other you get an uninterrupted view of the rice fields.

bird's eye view of the gold buddha with rice fields and mountains in the backdrop at Tiger Cave Temple kanchanaburi in 3 days

The temple complex is huge and consists of several buildings including a multi-tier pagoda that you can climb up for even more epic views.

From the parking lot, you’ll have to climb up 150+ stairs to get to the temple or take the funicular for a small fee.

Wat Tham Suea is open daily from 8 a.m to 5 p.m and is free to visit.

a house surrounded by rice fields in kanchanaburi

Related post: Most beautiful Kanchanaburi temples to visit

If you’ve built up an appetite or just want to take some photos, head over to Meena Café , located about a 6-minute drive from the Tiger Cave Temple.

This is one of the most scenic cafés as it offers a breathtaking view of the rice fields with the Tiger Cave Temple in the backdrop.

view of rice fields and a buddhist temple from meena cafe kanchanaburi

Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek

If you’re looking for a more underrated temple to visit during your 3 day Kanchanaburi itinerary, I recommend checking out Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek .

Sitting at the edge of a cliff overlooking Mae Klong River, the temple features a huge white Buddha and a small cave with crystal-like stalactites and stalagmites.

The highlight for me was definitely the panoramic views from the lookout point near the Buddha statue, which, to be honest, was the sole reason I decided to visit!

Tip : Be sure to check out this little coffee shop found behind the White Buddha if you want to eat lunch with a view.

view of water ways surreounded by lush vegetation from Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek

Wat Ban Tham & Heavenly Dragon Cave

Hopefully, you already had a hearty lunch at either Meena Café or the small coffee shop at Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek because you’ll be climbing A LOT of stairs to reach the top of the Heavenly Dragon Cave at Wat Ban Tham .

A long flight of stairs will lead you to the dragon mouth where you’ll find another series of steps flanked by colorful paintings on the walls. You’ll eventually reach the cave where you’ll find a huge gold Buddha.

If you have some energy left, climb up even more stairs to the gold chedi for a panoramic view of Kanchanaburi.

Tip : There’s a small shrine/viewpoint about halfway through for those who can’t bear to climb more stairs.

stairs leading to the Heavenly Dragon Cave in kanchanaburi

Wat Tham Khao Pun

The next stop on your Kanchanaburi itinerary is Wat Tham Khao Pun , a small cave temple that’s barely visited by tourists.

While the cave looked cool with colorful lights and several shrines and Buddha statues, it smelled a bit stuffy, so I ended up not spending too long inside.

Luckily, you can also head to the gold chedi for a 360-degree view of the surroundings (and some fresh air!), so it isn’t a complete letdown.

If you don’t want to climb up to the pagoda, you can check out the viewpoint area beside W Story Café , located not too far from the temple.

The entrance fee for the cave temple is 30 baht.

view of the river bordered by mountains from Wat Tham Khao Pun viewpoint

River Kwai Bridge

The River Kwai Bridge was built by the prisoners of war (POWs) under the command of the Japanese army during World War II as part of the railway link connecting Thailand and Burma (now Myanmar).

Part of the bridge was bombed but was later rebuilt and is now the most popular tourist attraction in Kanchanaburi.

If you followed this Kanchanaburi travel itinerary to a T, you should arrive at the River Kwai Bridge at around 2.30 p.m just in time to see the train pass through at 2.40 p.m.

The train also crosses the bridge at 6.15 a.m, 7.12 a.m, 10.44 a.m, 4.30 p.m and 5.30 p.m (be sure to double-check the schedule at the train station).

people walking along the river kwai bridge in thailand kanchanaburi

Near the bridge, you’ll find a local market selling souvenirs and food as well as a couple of restaurants overlooking the bridge. If you have more time, you can also visit Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im temple located nearby.

Zab Zab Restaurant

For dinner, I highly recommend eating at Zab Zab restaurant which serves the most delicious and cheapest Thai food. Their chicken and cashew nuts dish is soooo delicious and costs only 60 baht!

The restaurant is located just a few minutes walk from where I was staying so I ended up eating there three times.

Kanchanaburi Itinerary Day 2

For day 2 of your Kanchanaburi itinerary, go on a hike at the beautiful Erawan Falls and then spend the rest of the afternoon taking a stroll around Wat Thaworn Wararam before ending at JJ Night Market for dinner.

Erawan Falls

Erawan Falls are located about 70 km outside of Kanchanaburi and feature seven stunning waterfalls with crystal-clear turquoise pools that you can swim in.

Most of the waterfalls are easy to get to except for those after level 4 which require a moderate level of fitness due to the steep and uneven terrain.

I recommend spending at least 3 or 4 hours here to fully explore each level. The waterfalls are open from 8 a.m to 4.30 p.m and cost 300 baht to enter.

a waterfall flowing inot a clear blue pool at Erawan Falls Kanchanaburi

Inside the national park is a small café selling only drinks and snacks. If you get hungry, you can get lunch from one of the many restaurants near the parking lot.

The cheapest way to get from Kanchanaburi to Erawan Falls is to take the bus. Tickets cost 60 baht per person and the journey should take about 1.5 hours one-way.

I waited for the bus near the war cemetery but you can also wait anywhere along Sangchuto Road. You can’t miss the bus as you’ll see Erawan written in front. Just make sure to wave it down or it might not stop.

The bus from Kanchanaburi to Erawan departs every hour or so, starting from 8 a.m while the bus from Erawan to Kanchanaburi departs at 8.30 a.m, 10.30 a.m, 12 p.m, 2 p.m, 3 p.m, and 4.30 p.m.

You can also hire a private songthaew to take you to the waterfalls but note that it will be way more expensive.

a waterfall flowing against a steep cliff covered by green vegetation at Erawan Falls

Related post: How to get from Kanchanaburi to Erawan Waterfalls?

Wat Thaworn Wararam

Spend the rest of the afternoon by taking a stroll around Wat Thaworn Wararam . The temple sits at the edge of Khawae Yai River and is the perfect place to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

JJ Night Market

Finally, end the day at JJ Night Market just in time for dinner. The night market is located near the train station and sells everything from clothes to souvenirs and so much food.

JJ Night Market is open every day from 5 p.m to 10 p.m.

people buying food at JJ Night Market in kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi Itinerary Day 3

Death railway museum & war cemetery.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway, commonly referred to as the Death Railway, I highly recommend visiting the Death Railway Museum .

The museum will tell you all about how the Japanese army was able to capture thousands of POWs who were forced to build the railway link in extreme conditions.

The museum also contains several exhibits including parts of the original train tracks and tools used by the POWs as well as old photographs. It’s quite heart-wrenching but I think it’s important to learn about this part of history when visiting Kanchanaburi.

There’s a lot of information to take in, so plan to spend at least one or two hours there.

The museum is open daily from 9 a.m to 4 p.m and the entrance fee is 160 baht for adults and 80 baht for children. The fee also includes a free coffee, tea, or bottle of water.

rows of tombstones at the war cemetery kanchanaburi

Once you’re done at the museum, walk across the road to the war cemetery to pay your respects to the POWs who lost their lives during the construction of the railway link.

Note : There’s also another museum near the River Kwai Bridge but since the reviews weren’t that good, I decided to visit the Death Railway Museum instead.

Tham Krasae Bridge & Cave

Finally, end your Kanchanaburi itinerary by taking a train ride along the Death Railway to Tham Krasae Bridge & Cave .

Make sure you take the 10.30 a.m train so you can get back to Kanchanaburi with the 1.36 p.m train from Tham Krasae.

I highly recommend this train ride if you want to cross the River Kwai Bridge by train and at the same time enjoy a panoramic view of the rice fields and mountains.

The train will also travel across Tham Krasae Bridge which is sandwiched between a steep cliff and Khwae Noi River. Be sure to sit on the left for the best view!

view of the Tham Krasae Bridge thailand with the river in the backdrop

Get off the train immediately after the bridge and take a walk along the train tracks to admire the view and take photos. You can also visit the nearby cave temple for free.

There are a few restaurants at Tham Krasae station but unfortunately, the food options were quite limited, so it’s best to bring your own food. You’ll also find several souvenir shops here as well.

Once you’re done, take the train back to Kanchanaburi (you should arrive by 3 p.m) before moving on to your next adventure in Thailand!

I hope you found this Kanchanaburi itinerary helpful. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Home » Travel Guides » Thailand » 25 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi (Thailand)

25 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi (Thailand)

The province of Kanchanaburi in Thailand is located just 130km away from the city of Bangkok and is a popular tourist destination for both foreigners and Thais looking to escape the craziness of Bangkok. An area filled with magnificent landscapes and natural charming beauty, you will find there are plenty of places to relax in this province as you check out the fabulous natural waterfalls and plentiful hot springs that are on offer here.

The province is also rich in history, especially from the World War II era, the Japanese came here and built the Death Railway that took away thousands of innocent lives, today you can see the memories of this by going to the many memorials and museums that you will see dotted around the area.

With so much to do in this inspiring part of the county let’s not waste any time and take a look at the top things to do in Kanchanaburi .

1. Relive History At Death Railway Bridge

The most famous of all the sites in Kanchanaburi is the Death Railway Bridge, which really came into people’s minds after the film ‘Bridge over the River Kwai’ was filmed here in 1957. The bridge itself was made in Japan in a place called Java and brought over by the Japanese in World War II. Once the bridge was here it was then reassembled by the Prisoners Of War that were stationed here. The bridge played an important part in the rail link between Thailand and Burma and really is the star attraction of Kanchanaburi, when in the province this has to be top of your list.

2. Take A Train Journey To Bangkok

Train journeys in Thailand are notorious for being slow, breaking down and running behind schedule. That being said they are also the best way to see a countries wildlife and natural beauty, this journey is no exception. The local train from here to Bangkok is an excellent way to travel if you are not in a rush. The journey itself is very cheap and will cost only around 100 baht for the journey, you can pick which class you want to sit in and just sit back and watch out the window at the ever changing scenery until you arrive in Bangkok.

3. Meet The Elderly At Elephant World

Elephant World is very different to the normal elephant camps and parks you see across Thailand, here the elephants are either sick, old or abused elephants that have previously been used for some form of work or entertainment. Elephant World is a complete non-profit organization and all money earnt is recycled back into the scheme. A day spent here is all about you working for the elephants not the other way around, you will feed them fruits before making their lunch, you will play with them, wash them and make sure they are content.

4. Learn The Facts At Death Railway Museum

When you look back at the building of Death Railway it was tragic in many ways, the huge number of POW’s and forced laborers that lost their lives during its construction is staggering. This relatively new museum was created to tell the story of the railways construction and outlines all the facts and figures associated. It is quite a sobering place to visit and one that will end with you feeling thoughtful. There are actual exhibits from the prisoners as well as letters that detail the pain that was endured. You can also watch a video whilst you are here that gives even more information to the visitor.

5. Visit The JEATH War Museum

If you have visited the Death Railway Museum then a visit to this place is a natural follow on, JEATH stands for Japan, England, Australia, America, Thailand and Holland. The museum contains artwork and photos that show the visitor the appalling conditions that the POW’s were under whilst the railway was being built. Each image has a caption beneath that lets the visitor know what was happening. A truly moving experience and one that will remain in your thoughts for a long time after.

6. Come Equipped At Hellfire Pass Museum

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum at Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi

You may have noticed by now that there are quite a few museums dedicated to the building of the railway, this one is a little different. This is a hiking trail that shows the conditions the workers would have been under. Before arriving here you need to be prepared for some serious walking, sweating and struggling. The temperature can reach 40 degrees and the terrain is very rugged in places which will leave you feeling out of breath. The workers here would have worked for 18 hours a day under these conditions, luckily for the visitor it will only take you a couple to hike.

7. Visit Chung-Kai War Cemetery To See The POW Graves

On the far banks of the River Kwai sits this cemetery, it used to be the actual site of the Chung-Kai Prisoner Of War Camp but now it is the resting place for about 1,750 people who lost their lives here. Naturally the place is very quiet and there are rows upon rows of graves to walk along, some graves just have a name where as others will have personal messages from family and loved ones who have managed to track them down.

8. See The Floating Nuns At Wat Tham Mongkon Thong

When translated into English it becomes the Cave Temple of the Floating Dragon, there is not a dragon floating here but there is a floating nun that can be seen walking around the temple. On a regular basis the nun will put on a show that makes it look like she really is floating on top of the water whilst she assumes various yoga positions. When the nun has finished her show she will go around and bless any of the visitors that have an injury or illness. There is not a fixed schedule for when the nun will perform so it is worth trying to find out in advance if possible to avoid disappointment.

9. Marvel At The Erawan National Park

Set out over 550 square kilometers the Erawan National Park is pretty huge and will keep nature, cave and bird lovers happy for a long time. Most visitor’s however come to see the Erawan Waterfall. The waterfall is multi-tiered and named after a three headed elephant. Behind the visitor center is where the action begins, here is the first tier and you can dangle your feet in the pool to receive a free fish spa from the resident minnows. There are plenty of tiers to explore here and you will find that in some places you will encounter steep climbs. The climbs are well worth the effort as you get to follow the journey of the water and take in the natural beauty.

10. Time To Reflect At Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

Whichever day or days you choose to check out all of the war museums and cemeteries this is one that you will want to include on your list. Here lie the remains of 6,982 POW’s that died during the railway construction. The grounds are kept in immaculate condition and it is not unusual to see a uniformed veteran spending their time walking among the graves. Row upon row of neatly laid graves fill the area and it is worth the time stopping to read the plaques and thinking about the history of this railway.

11. Discover The Prasat Muang Singh

A trip to Prasat Muang Singh will take you to the westernmost Khmer site that has been discovered so far. This place is also known as the ‘Sanctuary of the City of the Lion’. The site dates back to the 12th century and sits alongside the banks of the River Kwai Noi. Thought to be a large trading post and also a garrison town, it would have been used to protect the western side of the Khmer kingdom. The temple is a site to behold and has been renovated over the years, during the weekend the temple is full of Thai and foreign tourists so a weekday trip is recommended.

12. Take A Trip To Sai Yok Noi Waterfall

The Sak Noi waterfall is located just a short walk from where the Death Railway has its final station (Nam Tok Rail Station). The falls here are not the most impressive of all the waterfalls in Kanchanaburi Province but they still look pretty impressive as they cascade down the side of the limestone rock. Whilst you are in the area of the waterfall you can buy some locally grown tamarind that is readily available from the street vendors you will see.

13. A Different Style Of Grave At The Chinese Cemetery

The other cemeteries that are in the area are all well-kept, with rows of straight graves and manicured lawns. This cemetery does not have the same appearance, here you will find a mixture of styles, there are Chinese graves that are in little round mounds and Thai style reliquaries. The layout is haphazard and the area is always deserted, no accurate records have been kept on the number of Chinese that died in the making of the railway but the numbers are of quite a significant size.

15. Take A Cooking Class

The food of Thailand is popular across the globe and its popularity is growing at a steady rate, there are several places in Kanchanaburi that offer cooking classes where you can learn to cook authentic Thai food at home. The classes usually start with an introduction to the ingredients and the kitchen tools that you will need to prepare the food. Throughout the lessons you will learn all about the traditional ways that the food is prepared before sitting down with the class to enjoy your creations. Lessons are generally not too expensive and are another interesting insight into Thai life.

16. Marvel In The Wonder Of Wat Tham Sua

When translated into English the name of the temple is ‘Tiger Cave Temple’ the temple and the scenery around the temple are not something that you will want to miss during your time in Kanchanaburi. When you get to the temple there are some stairs that lead to the top, from here you can see a massive Buddha image, at the front of the ledge you can look down and enjoy some beautiful views of Kanchanaburi as well as the dam and the river. The temple itself is still active so there are various monks going about their work and will stop and talk if you have a Thai guide with you.

17. Get Off The Train At Tham Krasae Bridge

The train journey stops at this station on its route and allows all of the passengers off the train to take a look around and buy their souvenirs. The reason the train stops is because the view from the station is staggering, you can take a wander and go to the restaurant here for lunch, the food is average but the views are what you really came for. There is also a cave a couple more minutes up the road which is said to have been the home of the Japanese soldiers whilst the railway was being constructed. If you decide to take a walk along the railway tracks you need to remember that in certain parts there is nowhere to go if a train happens to come along at the same time.

19. Camp At Pha Tad Waterfall

Located within the Khuean Srinagarindra National Park is the Pha Tad Waterfall, the waterfall receives its flow of water from the Kala mountain range. The waterfall has three tiers but unlike the other waterfalls you do not need to climb up it to see each tier, because of its layout and location you can stand at the bottom and view the different layers. Because of the popularity of the falls and the distance away from the city a lot of visitors choose to camp in the park to take full advantage of the journey they have had.

20. Wander Around The Night Market

Wherever you go in Thailand you are never far from a night market and Kanchanaburi is no exception to this, there are two night markets located in the city. The main market is at the train station which has stalls selling just about anything you would want to buy (and plenty of things you won’t). The second and smaller market is at the main bus station, this one is less touristy and the prices are slightly less, if you are staying in the area and will be cooking at any point this is a great place to pick up your fresh produce.

22. See The Century Old Buddha At Tham Phu Wa Temple

When you arrive at the temple you are greeted with a ninety five step staircase that has carvings of dragons on either side. The main reason people come here today is that inside the cave there is an image of Buddha that is more than a century old. The caves are also famous for offering meditation courses to those that wish to perfect the art form. Inside the cave you will also see several stalactites that make for excellent photo opportunities.

23. The Biggest Cave In Kanchanaburi Is Kaeng Lawa Cave

Located near to the river Kwai and looked over by huge mountains and wild jungle is the Kaeng Lawa Cave, the caves go back some 500 meters and have several hidden chambers. The most notable of the chambers are the music chamber, throne chamber and the curtain chamber. There are several Buddha statues that you will come across as well whilst you are exploring. If you are lucky you might get to witness a Khun Kitti bat, the smallest bat ever discovered with a wing span of only 10cm.

24. Relax At Shinto Park

Shinto Park is located in the small town of Lad Ya, which is on the west side of the river Kwai. The park itself is a joint Thai and Japanese venture that was built to promote peace in Asia and it is a beautiful memory of all the people that gave up their lives in the construction of the Burma to Thailand Railway. The gardens are well manicured and in excellent condition. There is not a lot to do here but relax and rest in the shade of the overhanging trees. For anyone interested in learning more of the history you can visit the small onsite museum and have a look.

25. Take A Soak At Hindad Hot Spring

Discovered by the Japanese during the building of the railway in World War II are the Hindad Hot Springs. They are sat right by the river and have plenty of trees overhanging to provide shade. There are three pools that are perfect for swimming in and the natural coolness of the river is just next to it when you need to cool down. The change between the hot spring and the cool river is perfect for your body as it will relax every muscle within you. There is also a massage parlor onsite that will continue your pampering for a small fee.

25 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi (Thailand):

Relive History At Death Railway Bridge
Take A Train Journey To Bangkok
Meet The Elderly At Elephant World
Learn The Facts At Death Railway Museum
Visit The JEATH War Museum
Come Equipped At Hellfire Pass Museum
Visit Chung-Kai War Cemetery To See The POW Graves
See The Floating Nuns At Wat Tham Mongkon Thong
Marvel At The Erawan National Park
Time To Reflect At Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
Discover The Prasat Muang Singh
Take A Trip To Sai Yok Noi Waterfall
A Different Style Of Grave At The Chinese Cemetery
Take A Cooking Class
Marvel In The Wonder Of Wat Tham Sua
Get Off The Train At Tham Krasae Bridge
Camp At Pha Tad Waterfall
Wander Around The Night Market
See The Century Old Buddha At Tham Phu Wa Temple
The Biggest Cave In Kanchanaburi Is Kaeng Lawa Cave
Relax At Shinto Park
Take A Soak At Hindad Hot Spring

11 AWESOME Things to Do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand (2024)

Last Updated: January 16, 2024

From exploring the region’s tragic World War II history to hiking through epic national parks, here’s our list of the best things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand.

Tourism in Thailand has been growing exponentially for decades thanks to its diverse range of epic landscapes, delicious food, fascinating culture, and friendly people.

Destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are amongst the most popular spots to visit, and it’s not uncommon for tourists to go back to these same places year after year.

Having spent almost 9 months total in Thailand, we’ve been lucky enough to get quite in-depth into the country.

And every time we return, we fall more and more in love with the new places we get to discover.

For those that love exploring regions that are a bit more off the beaten path though, or just anyone that loves a mix of natural wonder and history, Kanchanaburi has been rising on the list of top places to visit in Thailand .

Table of Contents

Walk Over the Bridge over the River Kwai

Visit the kanchanaburi war cemetery, ride the thai-burma railway (death railway), explore tham krasae, learn the history at hellfire pass memorial museum, stay in a floating raft house, wat sam prasop (the sunken temple), in sangkhla buri, mon bridge for sunrise, visit a waterfall (kroeng krawia waterfall or erawan falls), stay in a homestay in baan nong khao village, tham than lod national park, best time to visit kanchanaburi, top 11 things to do in kanchanaburi.

Located in the central-western part of the country, only a few hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a splendid destination to spend anywhere from a few days to a week.

With dense national parks that are still home to wild tigers and elephants, quaint farming villages that beg to be explored on bicycles, right up to some of the most interesting (and tragic) World War II history monuments in the country, there’s no shortage of Kanchanaburi attractions to keep you busy.

There is the gorgeous Erawan National Park, as well as the Death Railway Museum and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and other incredible attractions.

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Kanchanaburi on your next trip.

READ MORE: Here’s our ultimate guide to travelling in Thailand .

One of the most iconic places to visit in Kanchanaburi is the Bridge over the River Kwai, and this is where most people start their exploration of the area.

This bridge was built during World War II and is the symbol most associated with the infamous Burma Railway.

Originally built by Allied prisoners of war in 1942 and 1943, the Bridge over the River Kwai wasn’t actually the most important element of the railway during the fighting.

In fact, its claim to fame was being the only steel bridge the Japanese commissioned to build in Thailand (the rest were timber).

It was only when the Hollywood movie, ‘ Bridge on the River Kwai ‘ came out that it was immortalized, and the influx of tourists that came searching for the bridge actually encouraged the locals to change the name of the river from Mae Klong to Kwae Yai.

Today the bridge stands as a reminder of this history, and every day hundreds of people walk across its length to create their own memories of the Bridge on the River Kwai.

Out of all Kanchanaburi attractions, the Bridge on the River Kwai is the most well-known one.

During the construction of the Burma Railway, over 100’000 people lost their lives, including 12’000 prisoners-of-war and more than 90’000 civilian labourers.

The death toll during this two-year period is hard to comprehend, especially when you take in that the majority of those who perished were civilians, forced into slavery by the Japanese soldiers.

You might not want to spoil your mood when on holiday by visiting sites that tell such painful stories, but it’s important to honor and remember the fallen. This is one of the most important things to see in Kanchanaburi, if you wish to understand the locals a bit more.

Out of the foreigners who never lived to see the end of the war, more than half of them are buried in the city at Kanchanaburi War Cemetery , also known as Don-Rak.

6982 prisoners-of-war from a mix of nationalities are buried at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, primarily being Australians, British and Dutch.

For those looking to pay their respects to the fallen, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is the main place to do so.

The soldiers’ graves are set in rows, and is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

If you do visit, please show some respect to the deceased. We saw multiple people stepping over graves, waving selfie sticks around and yelling across the cemetery to their friends. This is not cool behaviour.

The Thai-Burma Railway was dubbed the Death Railway by the POWs and labourers who were forced to build it, and you don’t need much of an imagination to realise why.

The 415km-long Death Railway train track joined Ban Pong in Thailand with Thanbyuzayat in Burma (now Myanmar) over incredibly rough terrain.

The British had plans to build this railway for years but abandoned it due to the difficulty and intense labour that would be required to complete it.

When the Japanese invaded Thailand, they set about to achieve what the British could not by building the bridge – and it took them 12 months.

After the war, the Death Railway was closed down in 1947, but a section of it reopened a decade later.

Today you can ride the Death Railway from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok on a scenic and slow 2-hour journey.

You’ll pass through sprawling farmland, along the edge of steep cliffs, through deep cuttings and along the shores of the Khwae Yai River.

Riding the Death Railway is one of the main things to do in Kanchanaburi, and you can buy your tickets at the train station. It really adds a dose of excitement to Kanchanaburi sightseeing.

You can also visit the Death Railway Museum to learn more. Also called the Thailand Burma Railway Centre, the interactive Death Railway Museum tells the history of the famous landmark.

Check out this awesome 1-day tour where you will learn more about how the “Death Railway” came to be and see in person the iconic bridge over the River Kwai Yai.

NOMADasaurus Tip – Sit on the lefthand side of the Death Railway train for the best views.

After an hour or so on the Burma Railway you come to a little station at Lum Sum.

Here you’ll find the cave known as Tham Krasae (Tham means cave in Thai), a large limestone cavern that has been filled with Buddha statues.

The train will stop at Lum Sum, giving passengers a few minutes to check out Tham Krasae and the views along the bridge.

It’s not as impressive as some of the other Buddha caves you find in other places around Thailand, but it’s worth checking out during the stop.

Don’t dawdle though, as the train will leave without you.

In the town of Sai Yok, just north of Nam Tok, you’ll find the fantastic Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum and interpretive centre. It’s a Kanchanaburi must see for all history fanatics!

This museum, built by the Australian government, is one of the best we have seen in Thailand, and it is filled with haunting pictures and videos of conditions the POWs were forced to live in during World War II.

Hearing the testimonials of the former soldiers is incredibly sad, but it also gives an insight into just how strong the camaraderie of the ANZACs was.

The museum is located above Hellfire Pass, a deep rock cutting that the Burma Railway passes right through.

This particular point was considered to be one of the deadliest and most difficult sections of the entire construction, and today a memorial walk has been built to allow travellers to wander through its harrowing pathway.

We recommend getting the audio guide from the museum so you can listen to stories of what it was like in Hellfire Pass while you walk through.

If you look carefully you’ll even see remnants of the hand tools used by the POWs buried into the rocks.

No list of what to do in Kanchanaburi is complete without a visit to this centre.

One of the absolute best Kanchanaburi activities you can enjoy is to spend the night in a bamboo floating raft house.

The name gives it away – this unique accommodation style is quite literally floating on the River Kwai, anchored to the shore but bobbing gently as the water rushes by.

You cannot get any more waterfront than this. You cross a small bridge to get to your individual rooms, which are tastefully decorated and come with private ensuite.

The back sliding door opens to your own private balcony overlooking the jungle and mountains across the other side of the river.

We personally stayed in Boutique Raft House and absolutely loved it. Don’t travel to Kanchanaburi without booking a night here!

Two hours up the highway from Hellfire Pass is the town of Sangkhla Buri, set on the northern edge of the Khao Laem Reservoir.

Sangkhla Buri is a popular destination for Thais who want to experience a relaxed, authentic way of living that has been lost in the big cities, but it’s still off the radar for most foreign tourists.

The town has a number of attractions, with the most popular one being the famous sunken temple, Wat Sam Prasop.

In the 1980s the Vajiralongkorn hydroelectric dam was built, flooding the region and creating the Khao Laem Reservoir.

A lot of villages were destroyed in the lowlands, and some of the temples were either fully or partially submerged.

Today when the lake is low you can see the tops of some of these temples protruding from the surface, and they are an intriguing place to visit.

Wat Sam Prasop is the most prominent of these sunken temples, and the furthest away from town.

Close to Wat Sam Prasop is a larger temple on high ground that is slowly collapsing, and you can walk around to check this out.

One of the other temples you can visit is up on a hill, and has been slowly taken over by trees. It has a Tomb Raider feel about it.

You can book a sunken temple tour at the Mon Bridge, where a local will take you out on their boat to visit the underwater temples as well as the ones on land.

During our time in Sangklha Buri, we stayed at the Samprasob Resort , which was very close to the Mon Bridge and had great facilities (and views).

The most iconic attraction in Sangkhla Buri is the 400m-long Mon Bridge, the longest handmade timber bridge in the entire country.

Walking across this bridge is a must for any time of day, but it’s especially magical in the morning for sunrise when the monks come down to collect alms from the locals.

The streets are lined with people who wake early to give food and donations to the Buddhist monks.

It’s a very old tradition, and while it’s been turned into a tourist attraction in some places like Luang Prabang , here in Sangkhla Buri it has kept its authenticity.

If you want to take part you can buy alms to give to the monks from vendors on the street.

We found the ceremony on the southern side of the bridge, in the Mon Village, was more interesting and lively.

Monk Walking Mon Bridge Things To Do In Kanchanaburi

Off the 323 highway on the way south of Sangkhla Buri is the picturesque Kroeng Krawia waterfalls.

Located on the edge of the Khao Laem National Park, the Kroeng Krawia falls are quite literally on the side of the road, so there’s no excuse to not stop and go for a walk through them.

The river here flows over a number of small limestone rocks, and the surrounding jungle gives it a stunning atmosphere.

It’s not as impressive as Erawan Falls, but it’s a great place to wander around, stretch the legs and take some pictures.

There’s a little cafe near the main entrance that serves great espressos as well.

Another option is taking a day trip to Erawan National Park which is just one hour from Kanchanaburi.

Erawan Falls is one of the area’s most stunning waterfalls, and there are some amazing natural sights and hiking trails in Erawan National Park.

Book this amazing 3-day tour where you will see all the important highlights such as bridge over the River Kwai, Hellfire Pass, Erawan Falls and the floating market!

Or you can just book a one day tour to Erawan National Park and Falls which includes the River Kwai. This one is a bit cheaper as it’s just a day trip!

Just outside of Kanchanaburi city is the quaint little village of Baan Nong Khao.

This farming village is the kind of place where you’re more likely to encounter cows on the road than people, and that’s totally fine by us.

You can actually stay the night in Baan Nong Khao in one of the nicest little homestays we’ve experienced in years, Baan Klang Thung Organic Farm Homestay .

This gorgeous guesthouse is run by the friendliest family ever, and they absolutely love having visitors stay with them.

Their property is really pretty, with a nice garden and sitting area to relax in during those hot summer days.

We stayed in the upstairs loft, which was quite comfortable with an open-roof bathroom attached.

They also make some delicious food here, and we were even allowed to come into the kitchen to help out making dinner. If you ever need a good Tom Kha Gai, we’re pros now!

While we were staying at the guesthouse we rented some bicycles off of them, and rode into Nong Khao town to check out some of the attractions.

The main thing to see there is Wat Intharam, a large Buddhist complex, but there’s also a traditional loom house and lots of interesting back alleys.

We loved our time staying at the Baan Klang Thung Organic Farm Homestay, and highly recommend it when travelling to Kanchanaburi.

Here’s a decent post with information on how to book the homestay.

Wat Intharam Things To Do In Kanchanaburi

The Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, known to most locals as Tham Than Lod, is a wild, magnificent place a few hours north of Kanchanaburi.

When we say wild, we mean wild. There are still elephants and tigers wandering around in the highlands, and it’s not uncommon for villagers living inside the park to be frequently visited by these captivating animals.

Most tourists though won’t get the chance to see tigers or elephants in the wild, so instead they’ll have to settle for hiking through some of the most beautiful forests we’ve seen in all of Thailand.

The Tham Than Lod National Park has a number of hiking trails that twist their way through the area, as well as a number of caves to explore.

The most popular trail goes through Tham Than Lod Noi, a long limestone cave that has a boardwalk installed right through it.

It’s lit during the day so you can walk to the end without the need for flashlights.

The stalactites and stalagmites aren’t as massive as some other caves we’ve seen in Southeast Asia, but it’s still very impressive.

Once you walk through Tham Than Lod Noi you follow the trail up to a swimming hole, and can then push on to a large waterfall.

Beyond that you come across hundreds of timber steps that take you high into the mountains. It’s a workout on the legs, but definitely worth it for what lies at the top.

The views from the top of the staircase are wonderful, but if you go a little bit further you’ll find Tham Than Lod Yai.

This enormous cave rises above the jungle, allowing passage through as if it was a tunnel, and has an unbelievable opening where the ceiling has collapsed.

Once you get past the cave there’s a small Buddhist monastery at the top, but it’s more functional as opposed to touristy.

All up the hike shouldn’t take more than two hours one-way. We organised a lift to the top with one of the park rangers and walked downhill.

If you want to do something different compared to all the other tourists ticking off things to do in Kanchanaburi, this national park is a great place to visit.

Kanchanaburi Travel Guide

A visit to Kanchanaburi during your trip to Thailand is a marvellous way to spend part of your holiday, and we’re so glad we headed here.

Here are some travel tips to help you plan your vacation when looking for the best things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand.

How to Get to Kanchanaburi

Our guide to the best way to get around the region. For internal transport in Thailand, we recommend booking ahead with 12go.asia .

The closest major airport to Kanchanaburi is in Bangkok , where they have both an international and domestic airport.

It’s a major hub, servicing destinations all around the world. Once you land in Bangkok you can either take a taxi to Kanchanaburi or use one of the other methods of transport below.

Kanchanaburi is very well connected with the rest of Thailand through their expansive bus network.

From Bangkok, you can take buses from either the Sai Tai Mai (Southern) or Morchit (Northern) terminals. Expect to pay around 120THB for the 4-hour journey.

You can also take long buses from Chiang Mai , or come from across the border in Myanmar at the Pum Nam Ron border crossing.

By far the most comfortable way to get to Kanchanaburi is to take the train.

Trains leave from Thonburi (Bangkok Noi) train station for Kanchanaburi, and will take 3-4 hours.

Kanchanaburi has two main seasons – winter (dry) and summer (wet).

The best time to visit Kanchanaburi is without a doubt from November to February, when temperatures are much milder.

If you choose to travel during the summer, May to September, expect the mercury to hit over 40 degrees and have very high humidity.

The shoulder seasons (March/April and October) are also good times to visit, as you’ll find many accommodations have cheaper prices still, and the weather is much more manageable compared to summer.

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Alesha and Jarryd

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Karla Around the World

Don't just wonder, wander too. (travel destinations), a complete guide to kanchanaburi: itinerary, what to see, where to eat,.

Kanchanaburi-Thailand-Travelguide-Karlaroundtheworld

Thailand was a trip that was booked while I was asleep. I literally woke up at 9am the next day with a message containing our tickets to Bangkok . Yes, that’s pretty much our story (it’s not the first time it has happened) but it makes for a perfect trip.

The Gorditas, my group of four, have been traveling together since 2009. This 2018, we decided to go on a trip to Thailand to celebrate my birthday.

Most of us have been to Thailand prior to this trip except for Timmy, who was seeing Thailand for the first time. Apart from Bangkok , we wanted to explore other areas outside of Bangkok. We picked Kanchanaburi.

How to get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok

Getting a flight directly to Kanchanaburi is, unfortunately, not possible. Here are different ways and modes of transportation you can take for you to get from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.

By Train to Kanchanaburi ( from Thonbori station)

Taking the slow train is one of the best ways you can get to Kanchanaburi, if you can. The views are amazing and it was quite the experience. If you are on a lax schedule and have enough time, we definitely recommend this not only for the experience of feeling like a local but also for the fantastic views of Thailand you get to see on the way.

The slow train to Kanchanaburi starts from the Thonburi Station in Bangkok. It departs at 07:50 and 1:55.

We took the slow train at 1:55.

Tips when riding the train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

No aircon – Air conditioning is, unfortunately, unavailable. So if you’re not good with the heat, make sure to bring a small electric or manual fan along with you, as well as a cold bottle of water although, you will see vendors selling water, incase you forgot.
Some seats are wooden, some are not.
Can be breezy but can also be hot, depending on the state of the weather on your day of visit.
We personally enjoyed the experience a lot, especially because of the great scenery. The entire ride was very enjoyable and relaxing, so much so that I even managed to fall asleep.

It’ll take around 2.5 hours to Kanchanaburi but expect delays. Since we took the afternoon train we decided to get off at Kanchanaburi instead of Namtok (where you will be able to see the Death Railway).

You can buy food from the vendors who occasionally hops on board during station stops.
They sell chips, popcorns, rice toppings, donuts and even chicken. If you’re worried about getting hungry on the long ride, don’t worry- you won’t. We loved the donuts.

We loved the experience as it gave us the time to bond and see the outside scenery of Thailand. This was truly a good way to travel to Kanchanaburi if you have time to spare. The journey there itself is an experience on its own.

A ticket per person on the slow train is going to cost you 100 baht each, and if you have children you’re going to need to pay full price for them too.

Kanchanaburi Attractions : Places to see visit in Kanchanaburi

Bridge over river kwaii.

You can see the Bridge over River Kwaii two different ways, by passing through it while on the slow train on the way to Namtok, or in our case, we went there via 5 min tuktuk ride, which will set you back around 30 baht.

If you’re on the slow train, you will see the train pass around 10:45 but it can sometimes arrive late- around 11 AM.

If you’re into history, especially in context of the World War, then this bridge is a great place to visit. The bridge, as well as the Death Railway, was forced to be built by Allied laborers back in World War II, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths from overwork and starvation. The Bridge over River Kwaii is a frequent stop for tourists because of this great history.

We tried this twice, one while on the train and the other, we waited in the platform for the train to pass.

Just beside the River Kwaii is the Jeath War Museum

Here you can learn about the Thailand and Burma Death Railway history as well as the story behind the bridge. They also have various historical artefacts up for display. It’s interesting to get a context to the place, and a fee to get inside is going to cost you 40 baht per person.

This is where we understood what happened years before and what the importance is of the bridge.

Mallika Kanchanaburi

Mallika-Village-Kanchanaburi-Karlaroundtheworld

We honestly enjoyed our time here at the Mallika Village a lot. It was a very cultural experience, bringing us to the roots of the country and making us feel as if we’ve travelled back in time.

All of the staff in the village are dressed in colourful costumes identical to Siamese traditional clothing, and you can even rent your own. Before you enter you have to exchange your typical Thai currency with old currency. You can walk through the streets and gaze up at the old-time architecture as well as get a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals in the past. You even have the option to ride rickshaws around the area.

From Kanchanaburi, you can take a bus towards the Mallika Village .

Price : A day pass around the village will cost 250 baht (150 for children and senior citizens) and 700 (350 for children and senior citizens) Baht for not only a pass, but also inclusive are a dinner and performance.

The dinner and show, you can avail of every day except for Tuesdays.

Overall, the Village is very beautiful and Instagrammable, as well as interactive. Visitors will really feel as if they’ve stepped back in time.

4. Wat Tham Sua + the Chinese pagoda beside it

The Wat Tham Sua or Tiger Cave Temple is one of the most popular attractions in Thailand due to its sacred purpose- meditation, as well as beauty.

Price : To get to the location itself you can either spend 20 baht for a cable car or if you want to get there for free, take the 1272 steps up to the footprint of Buddha.

The view from the top is breathtaking and it really is a spiritual place, great for relaxation and meditating. The temple is sacred and conservative, so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees before planning a visit to see the beautifully crafted Buddha statue.

Right beside the Tiger Cave Temple is a Chinese pagoda, a Buddhist temple which is also very pleasing to the eye. You can visit but be warned of the many, many steps it will take to reach the very top.

5. Erawan National Park

Price : 300 baht entrance for foreign individuals, as well as an additional 30 baht for those driving in car.

Business Hours: The Park opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 5 PM.

The Erawan National Park is a beautiful location filled with beautiful waterfalls, nature, as well as wild and marine life. Here you can find the biggest waterfall in all of Kanchanaburi. Although it is a national park, it is made convenient for tourists with its easily navigated steps for hiking and walking.

There are many tiers to the Erawan waterfall, and we made it up to the fourth tier. The first three are very pretty but can be crowded.

The first tier has a picnic area where you can eat your food and drinks you have stashed away. There also happens to be a restaurant here were you can buy meals and beverages before you trek to the higher tiers.

The second tier has nice falls, but by this tier you can no longer bring food and drinks and there is a charge for the bottled water so be sure you are refreshed and ready.

The third tier closes at 4PM, so afterwards you’ll only be able to access the first and second tiers.

There are also Doctor Fishes there as well, a fish spa where you can have the fish eat off all of the dead skin cells off of your feet. Another great plus is that you can swim in the natural falls to beat the heat.

How to get to Erawan Waterfalls

1.) Rent a car from Kanchanaburi, which will cost you around 2000 baht

2.) Take a train to Namtok for 100 baht per person (The train leaves you barely any time to get on if its delayed) 1 hour taxi ride to Erawan National Park -1000 baht

3.)Take the bus back–but be timely, because it leaves at 4 pm.

5.) Last train in Namtok leaves at 3:15

6.) Take a taxi back to Kanchanaburi for another 1000 baht

Basically the taxis cost 2000 baht all in all but if you take the train you can experience being on the death railway itself and its scenic wonders as well as feel the history attached to it, all while paying less. If you decide to ride the train, try to stay on the left side, the river side, as it offers the best views. The right side is where you can see the mountains, which is a sight as well.

6.Hellfire Pass

Price: Admissions are free but donations are accepted

The Hellfire Pass is a major part of Thai-Burmese history, a place where workers, in horrible conditions, were forced to labor in order to to drill the rock, to create a pass for a railway. The museum is very informative, and you will be able to hear all of the details and history with ease from the speakers as you walk through the pass.

You can take a bus, motorbike, or taxi to the location: 80 km west of Kanchanaburi, off Route 323

The museum is open from Mondays to Sundays, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Where to Eat

The ambience of this restaurant is amazing- it is an open air restaurant right over the river where you can get a view of the waters as well as mountains and clouds in the distance. There are no chairs- there is a hollow space below your seat on the floor where you can dangle your feet as you indulge in delicious Thai food.

Dejtosapak is open from 10AM to 9PM daily.

Address: 19/235, Chaichumphol Soi 1 Rd, Ban Tai, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

Blue Rice Restaurant by Apple and Noi

Dejtosapak-Kanchanaburi-Karlaroundtheworld

Blue Rice is a restaurant which serves up authentic Thai food like curry, chicken skewers, pomelo salad, as well as their speciality: the blue rice, the typical white grain served with a tint of blue–perfect for snapping a picture. You should try their Massaman as well as the chicken with coconut—super good.

Address: 153/4 Sutjai Bridge, Thamakham, Mahardthai Road, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

Plum Tree Bar and Restaurant

The Plum Tree serves not only authentic Thai and Chinese food, but also Western food such as European cuisine if you want to get a taste of different flavors. They have large servings as well as a good atmosphere and ambience. Nice ambiance, this one is more for a date or fine dining.

Address: 236/6 Mae Nam Khaeo Road. | Tha MaKham Subdistrict, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

Where to Stay:

Goodtimes resort.

Good-times-Kanchanaburi-Karlaroundtheworld

The Good Times Resort Kanchanaburi has a very peaceful feel to it especially since it’s seated at the river where you can go and look at the water of the River Kwai. Seeing the sunset over the river is one of the best parts of staying here, as well.

Amenities :

Well-furnished and comfortable room

Swimming pool

Onsite restaurant

Kanchanaburi itinerary for 3 to 4 days : must see and do.

The Bridge on the River Kwai
Jeath War Museum
Dinner in Dejtosapk
Walk around Pap Rak Street

Day 2: Hellfire and Erawan National Park

Day 3: We drove and rented a car for 1200 baht for easy driving around Kanchanaburi.

Kanchanaburi has straight toads and no traffic but at night the roads can get quite dark.

Wat Tham Suea

Chinese Pagoda

Mueang Sing Historical Park

Mallika re 124 Village with a show and dinner

River Kwai Jungle Raft

meal at the Restaurant Mon Village

Elephant sighting

We didn’t get to do the Day 4 tasks because we took our time, and didn’t want to be in a rush– we used our days to really enjoy Thai food and cuisine as well as soak in the experience.

How to get to Bangkok from Kanchanaburi

Mini-bus – Will cost 130 Baht per person

Taxi – Will still cost around 1000 to 1500 baht

Train – Usually departs at 7:20 AM and 2:50 PM

20 thoughts on “ A Complete Guide to Kanchanaburi: Itinerary, What to see, Where to Eat, ”

This is such a fun trip to take with a lovely group of ladies! I’d love to check out that waterfall, it’s so beautiful! And the temple looks lovely, too. How did you manage to book a trip in your sleep though? 😀

My friends booked me a ticket —- I woke up and I just received a sceeenshot saying “you’re booked “

I’ve been to Thailand before, but did not go to Kanchanaburi. The train ride looks amazing and so much fun. I love how you tell the story – it’s like being one of the ‘gorditas’ (which I unfortunately am on a different level 😉 )

great guide! I’m heading to Thailand in just a few weeks for the first time so this was really helpful for me! Kanchanaburi wasn’t on my list, but I might need to add it to my itinerary now!

You should, it’s not that far from Bankgok 🙂 Others do it for a day or 2 but yeah, I like to really explore an area in depth.

Thanks for this very informative post about what to see in Kanchanaburi. Such a very beautiful place to visit and so much to enjoy there. I really love all of the photos, indeed a perfect getaway.

Wow! Thank you so much for such a comprehensive guide! Mallika Village has definitely caught my attention. The Siamese costume, the architecture, the rickshaw ride… Love it when you get to explore not only a country but its roots as well!

I have never heard of Kanchanaburi! It is nice to learn about other places in Thailand besides Bangkok, Chiang Mai and those islands. You look super cute in those Siamese traditional clothing!

A very comprehensive guide! The train journey sounds like quite an adventure – I’m glad you mentioned the lack of air conditioning and the advice to bring a personal fan – that would be the hardest part, feeling like you’re stuck in a stuffy room the whole time! That waterfall & pool looks beautiful and refreshing though. Great guide.

What a fun adventure! I had no idea there was a train system in Thailand – no one ever mentions that. I love train rides so I know I’d enjoy it! Even without aircon 😀 Mallika Village looks like such a unique experience as well. I’m going to save this post for future reference! I haven’t been to Thailand yet

I love the pics you have taken in the train esp of all the friends at the window! Super idea!lovely lovely pics! ESP the vendor on the train! What a beautiful smile. Thanks for the info on the slow train. Malika village looks so cool with such great photo ops! I LOVEEED the architecture of the Chinese pagoda. Just too intricate 🙂

Kanchanaburi surprised us, we really had a good time. And I did enjoy it because of all those things you mentioned.

You are such a cool group of 4 girls! I haven’t been to Kanchanaburi but your pictures have made me wonder why I missed it on my first trip to Thailand. The slow train is an experience I’d love to have, so I hope I can have a lax schedule to be able to enjoy it. I can see how cool the views are and I love train journeys so I can be sure I am going to love it. Mallika Village seems like a nice place, I love your pictures in traditional clothing. I’d also love to visit Erawan National Park. I am definitely adding this to my already-prepared list of places to visit in Thailand on my second trip 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration!

Seems you really had a good and enjoyable time with your company during your visit in Kanchanaburi. Thanks for the tips, you have shared for more exciting adventures. I really love all of the photos, they are all so inviting!

Hi, thanks for your post on Kanchanburi!

My family is planning to go Bangkok this Dec and we have decided to include Kanchanaburi in our itinerary. May I asked if we need to book the train tickets in advance, esp if we are going on a weekend? Are we allowed to bring hard luggage onto the train? Also, did you take the train ride back to Bangkok? If yes, what are the timings of the train back to Bangkok?

Hi, we just bought the ticket on the spot but we weren’t there during peak season. There seems to be a lot of space if you take it from Bangkok. It gets more crowded towards Kanchanaburi already as you can ride the same train to Hellfire. You can take a hard luggage. We were rushing on our way back so we decided to take a van instead. It’s faster. The train experience is a must though but then the van is just shorter.

Hi! Thanks for this guide to Kanchanaburi! 🙂 Me and my friends are planning to visit Kanchanaburi for a day only, may I ask for your suggestions to places we could visit there for a day? And also, should we use the train again going back to Bangkok or should we take the bus? 🙂

Hi There! If you are only going for a day, you may not have enough time if you take the train. You can take a van, a tour or a bus.

Hi there, thanks so much for this blog – very helpful and comprehensive! I’m getting the train all the way to Nam Tok to see HellFire Pass however I don’t really want to do the 5hour trip again on the way back having had the experience getting there (I am staying the night in Kanchanburi on the way there so splitting it over 2 days!). Do you know if I can get a mini-van back to Bangkok from Nam Tok and how that can be organised? Thanks!

Hi, I think arranging a mini van from Nam Tok is quite expensive. How many pax are you? You can also make your way back to Kanchanaburi via van, train or bus, the bus leaves at 4PM so you better time that. Then from Kanchanaburi, it’s easy to get mini vans to Bangkok

Mini-bus – Will cost 130 Baht per personTaxi – Will still cost around 1000 to 1500 baht

2023 KANCHANABURI TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET) BLOG

by thepinay solobackpacker | Sep 6, 2023 | Itinerary , Kanchanaburi , Thailand , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Thing is, I seek history whenever I travel, it is pretty essential in helping me understand why the destination I am visiting is what it is today. It helps me understand how places and people change overtime, it teaches me about continuities, it encourages me to gain new insights, and more importantly, it helps me understand and appreciate the cultural values of a place. After all, the future is in the past.

Kanchanaburi is one of those places in Thailand that is steeped in history. It was founded by King Rama I as a stronghold for likely Burmese intrusions during the 18 th century, and it was moved to its current location during the rule of King Rama III. Kanchanaburi has a pretty dark past and some of its traces are still evident today. It is best known for its World War II history and the key tourist spots associated with it, such as the Death Railway, the River Kwai Bridge (made famous by the movie River Kwai Bridge), and the Allied War Cemetery.

Though Kanchanaburi is well-known for its dark tourism sites, there are more places to see here for everyone, such as the sprawling Erawan National Park that is home to the seven-tiered Erawan Falls, the Instagram-worthy temples of Wat Tham Sua and Wat Than Kao Noi, the cave temple where Buddhist monks pray and congregate, the Elephants World, the retro city of Mallika that recreates the golden era of Siamese lifestyle during the reign of King Rama V, and the ancient Khmer temples at Mueang Singh Historical Park. It’s also a relief that Kanchanaburi has kept its relaxed atmosphere despite the crowd it brings. You can stay at a hotel by the River Kwai and enjoy the river that runs through magnificent scenery and funnel into the sea. Anyway, whatever you prefer to see and do, I hope this Kanchanaburi Travel Guide with detailed itinerary and sample budget helps you plan your much-awaited trip soon.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

KANCHANABURI PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE

Best time to visit kanchanaburi.

Kanchanaburi is a year-round tourist destination, but if you’re looking for the best months to visit, I’d recommend November, December, January, and February since the weather is cooler and the place has lesser crowd. Kanchanaburi is relatively humid especially during summer season which falls on March, April, and May, which is also the peak season. Prices of flights and hotels are higher during this season.

KANCHANABURI ATM AND MONEY EXCHANGE

Kanchanaburi like the rest of Thailand uses Thai Baht as currency. Some tourist establishments may accept US dollars, best to have Thai baht in handy. Almost everything is on cash basis, but major hotels and restaurants may accept credit card. The best rates are the bank’s rate. Best to withdraw from ATMs concentrated around the town center. You can find the ATM locations HERE .

KANCHANABURI WI-FI/INTERNET

Stay connected online while traveling in Kanchanaburi and the rest of Thailand. You can rent a pocket wi-fi or buy a sim card through the link below.

KANCHANABURI POCKET WI-FI: RESERVE HERE
KANCHANABURI SIMCARD: BUY HERE

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN KANCHANABURI?

Spending 2 or 3 days should cover the top tourist attractions in Kanchanaburi particularly the World War II destinations. But if you want to explore other note-worthy attractions, you could spend 4 days, 5 days, or 6 days in Kanchanaburi. Check-out my detailed Kanchanaburi itinerary below that is good for 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, and 6 days. Feel free to modify them depending on your budget, schedule, and preferences.

KANCHANABURI SAFETY

Kanchanaburi is pretty safe for tourists, even for solo female travelers. I traveled to Kanchanaburi alone and rented a bike to explore the main town. I never encountered any problems and the locals especially the monks I met inside the cave temple were super helpful and friendly.

KANCHANABURI TRAVEL GUIDE

how to get to kanchanaburi.

BANGKOK TO KANCHANABURI BY TRAIN

Tourists can take the historic train route along the Bangkok Noi-Nam Tok rail line from Thonburi Station, Bangkok to Kanchanaburi train station or River Kwai Bridge. Travel time is roughly 2.5 – 3 hours and Kanchanaburi train fare is approximately ฿100 – ₱159 ($3, SGD 4.46, MYR 13, € 3, AUD 4.79, ₩K 3.8k). There are 2 scheduled train trips between Kanchanaburi from Thonburi Station (Bangkok) daily:

*Schedule may change without prior notice.

BANGKOK TO KANCHANABURI BY BUS

There are buses that run to Kanchanaburi daily from either the South Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) and the North Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) in Bangkok. Transit time to Kanchanaburi is roughly 2.5 hours and bus fare starts at ฿120 – ₱191 ($ 3.75, SGD 5, MYR 16, € 3.44 , AUD 6, ₩K 4.6k) per person. You can buy tickets at the bus station or book a ticket online in advance to secure a seat.

BUS TICKET: RESERVE HERE

Bangkok to kanchanaburi by minivan.

Alternatively, from Victory Monument in Bangkok or from Khao San Road, you can ride a minibus directly to Kanchanaburi. But fare is more expensive. Fare starts at ฿150 – ₱240 ($5, SGD 7, MYR 21, € 4, AUD 7, ₩K 5,833k) per person and it’ll take about 2.5 hours to reach Kanchanaburi. These minibus are usually run by local travel agencies.

BUS TICKET: RESERVE HERE

bangkok to kanchanaburi by private car or van.

If you are traveling in a group, a hassle-free way to visit Kanchanaburi from Bangkok is by private car or van, you can rent a car or van that is good for 3-10 persons and divide the rental cost. Best to book a reliable car rental company through the link below:

CAR RENTAL: BOOK HERE

taxi rental: book here, getting around kanchanaburi.

It’s quite easy to reach the major tourist spots in Kanchanaburi town, you can do that by bicycle, motorcycle, or tuktuk.

BY TOUR PACKAGE

A convenient and reliable way to tour kanchanaburi is by joining group tours or booking a private tour. this will help you maximize your time and ensure that you have a tour guide to explain the details and history of each tourist attraction..

KANCHANABURI INSTAGRAM TOUR (DAY TOUR FROM BANGKOK) : RESERVE HERE
KANCHANABURI HIGHLIGHTS (PRIVATE TOUR): RESERVE HERE

Tuktuk short rides from the hotel in downtown Kanchanaburi to the River Kwai Bridge will cost roughly ฿40 – ₱64 ($ 1.25,SGD 1.78, MYR 5.46, € 1.15, AUD 1.91, ₩1,555) per person.

You can explore the tourist attractions in Kanchanaburi town, however, the other tourist destinations listed below can only be reached by public transport or car/motorcycle rental.

Bike rentals in Kanchanaburi starts at ฿50 – ₱79 ($ 1.56, SGD 2.23, MYR 7, €1.44 , AUD 2.39, ₩K 1.9k per day. However, take note that Kanchanaburi is pretty humid, so make sure to use a cap/hat and keep yourself hydrated to avoid heat stroke. If you have a heart condition or you aren’t fit enough to cycle, do not force yourself to go biking to avoid untoward incidents.

BY MOTORBIKE

Kanchanaburi can be explored by motorcycle, but make sure you have an international driver’s license. Usually, motorcycle rental companies will also ask for your passport aside from driver’s license. Motorcycle can be rented for ฿200 – ₱79 ($ 1.56, SGD 2.23, MYR 7, €1.44 , AUD 2.39, ₩K 1.9k per day, gas not included.

BY CAR RENTAL

Touring Kanchanaburi by car is a convenient way to explore the province. This is recommended if you are traveling by group, just hire car for a day to reach the tourist spots outside Kanchanaburi center and share the cost. You can book a reliable car company through the link below.

CAR RENTAL: RESERVE HERE

WHERE TO STAY IN KANCHANABURI

When choosing a hotel in Kanchanaburi, tourists usually prefer these 2 locations: hotels in Kanchanaburi near the River Kwai Bridge, or hotels in Kanchanaburi town center.

BAMBOO HOUSE KANCHANABURI

Location: River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

CHECK RATES HERE OR BOOK HERE

SKY RESORT KANCHANABURI
RIVER KWAI HOTEL
RIVER KWAI BRIDGE RESORT

TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN KANCHANABURI

1.bridge on the river kwai (death railway bridge).

The most popular tourist attraction in Kanchanaburi is the Death Railway Bridge or the Bridge on the River Kwai, which is featured in the Academy Award-winning movie “The Bridge on the River Kwai”. It is part of the Thai-Burma Railway built by coercing hundred thousand British, Dutch, Australians, and Americans soldier prisoners and Southeast Asian laborers to build the said rail. This was because, after already invading Thailand, the Japanese during the World War II also wanted to invade Burma (Myanmar). So, they planned to deliver weapons and soldiers to Burma via a railway connecting Thailand and Burma. The said construction led to hundred thousand death, and many of the prisoners of war (POW) are now buried at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.

kanchanaburi travel guide: River Kwai Bridge

Bridge on the River Kwai
Entrance Fee: FREE
Open Hours: 24/7
How to get to the River Kwai Bridge: Hire a tuk-tuk from your hotel/guesthouse for about ฿40 – ₱64 ($ 1.25,SGD 1.78, MYR 5.46, € 1.15, AUD 1.91, ₩1,555) to take you to the Bridge on the River Kwai. Or rent a bicycle or motorbike from your guesthouse/hotel.

For a hassle-free tour, you may book a Kanchanaburi tour package:

KANCHANBURI PRIVATE TOUR: RESERVE HERE
KANCHANABURI INSTAGRAM TOUR (Day tour from Bangkok) : RESERVE HERE

2.JEATHWAR MUSEUM

From the River Kwai Bridge you can walk to the JEATHWar Museum ( J apan, E ngland, A ustralia/USA, T hailand, and H olland War Museum), located in the grounds of a temple named Wat Chai Chumphon. The museum displays war relics, letters and artworks from POWs (Prisoners of War), their family members, including interviews of POWs. Interestingly, one gallery here was designed a bamboo shelter called attap where the prisoners of war lived during the war. Beside the JEATHWar Museum is a majestic Buddhist Temple that houses stunning wall paintings.

JEATHWAR Museum
Entrance Fee: ฿50 – ₱79 ($1.53, SGD 2, MYR 7, € 1.41, AUD 2.43, ₩1.8K)
Open Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
How to get to the JEATHWar Museum: You can rent a tuk-tuk for about ฿40 to take you to JEATH War Museum. Alternatively, you may also rent a bike or motorcycle from your guesthouse/hotel. If coming from the River Kwai Bridge, the museum is walkable

3.CHUI KAI WAR CEMETERY

Chui Kai War Cemetery is the exact site of the Allied prisoner-of-war camp during the World War II, located about 3 km south of the River Kwai Bridge at the bank of Kwai Noi River. During the World War II, prisoners even built their hospital and church nearby. This beautifully-manicured cemetery houses the graves of 1,400 Commonwealth soldiers and 300 Dutch soldiers. I cycled here during my trip to Kanchanaburi because it’s quite easy to reach from my guesthouse. The place though peaceful and full of greenery and flowers now, still evokes a disheartening atmosphere because of its tragic history.

Kanchanaburi itinerary: Chung Kai War Cemetery

Chui Kai War Cemetery
Entrance Fee: Free
Open Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
How to get to the Chui Kai War Cemetery: Rent a bicycle from your guesthouse/hotel and cycle to the Chui Kai War Cemetery. It is roughly 3 km south of the River Kwai Bridge. Alternatively, you may hire a tuk-tuk to take you there for about ฿40 – ₱64 ($ 1.25,SGD 1.78, MYR 5.46, € 1.15, AUD 1.91, ₩1,555).

4.KAOPOON CAVE TEMPLE

kanchanaburi itinerary: KAOPOON CAVE TEMPLE

Kanchanaburi has some of the most stunning temples I’ve seen in Thailand, and interestingly, it is home to a handful of cave temples. I originally planned to visit Kaopoon Cave Temple that is said to have been visited by King Rama V (King Churalongorn the Great) via waterway. Today, several boats in Kanchanaburi near the River Kwai Bridge can be rented to get here. I cycled to this place from my hotel near the River Kwai, and unfortunately, I didn’t have enough information at that time of my visit. I thought upon entering the first cave temple, I was already at Kaopoon Cave Temple. Turns out, I only entered the Phra Mae Guan Im Pho Thi Sat Chao shrine, the first shrine with a large Buddha sitting on a summit of a hill overlooking a scenic river, which is pretty popular among locals, as they usually come here to pray. Despite not reaching Kapoon Caves, I enjoyed my visit at Phra Mae Guan Im Pho Thi Sat Chao because a helpful Buddhist monk toured me around the place. I met his other Buddhist friends as well and we had a quick chat and photo op. If your keen to reach the Kaopoon Caves, there’s a wagon for roughly THB50 per person that can take you farther to Kaopoon Cave Temple, about 2,000 meters farther.

Phra Mae Guan Im Pho Thi Sat Chao with Buddhist monks

5.ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK

Initially, Erawan National Park was the reason why I was drawn to Kanchanaburi, I wanted to see the famed tourist spot here – the 7-tiered Erawan Falls, located inside the confines of the Erawan National Park on Tenassirim Hills. Erawan Waterfalls boasts of 7 levels of falls, which thankfully, are quite manageable to reach. The 1st level of Erawan Falls called Hlai Khuen Rung, is usually jampacked with local tourists since this is the perfect spot for picnic. Visitors can have lunch or snack here as there are food stalls nearby. The 1 st level waterfall in Erawan Falls has pleasing, sapphire-colored water that flows into the pool with little fishes that can nibble your feet’s dead skin like those found on fish spa. Wang Macha, the 2 nd level of Erawan Waterfalls also has an arctic-colored water bucketing into natural pools and rock formations. This is a good place for swimming as the water here is refreshing and there are comfort rooms, shower rooms, and changing rooms. The 3 rd level of Erawan Falls called Pha Namtok plummets into a huge natural pool surrounded by trees and plants. The 4 th level of Erawan Falls called Oke Nang Peesu is another crowd-pleaser because of its natural waterpark, where visitors can slide and bathe. Buea Mai Long , the 5 th level of Erawan Falls is another Instagram-worthy tourist spot in Kanchanaburi with teal-colored water pouring into travertine pools. The 6 th level of Erawan Waterfalls called Dong Prucsa is worth visiting despite its distance from the other waterfalls in the area. It tumbles down colossal rock formations before plunging into the natural pool. Meanwhile, the Phu Pha Erawan is the 7 th level of Erawan Waterfalls is shaped like “erawan” – the 3-tiered white elephant in the Hindu mythology.

Erawan National Park
Entrance Fee: Adult (foreigner) ฿300 – ₱487 ($10, SGD 13 , MYR 41, €9, AUD 14, ₩K 12K) , child (foreigner) ฿200 – ₱324 ($6.45, SGD 9, MYR 28, €6, AUD 9.45, ₩8K) , Adult (local) ฿100 – ₱159 ($3, SGD 4.46, MYR 13, € 3, AUD 4.79, ₩K 3.8k), Child (local) ฿50 – ₱79 ($ 1.56, SGD 2.23, MYR 7, €1.44 , AUD 2.39, ₩K 1.9k),
Parking fee: Car ฿30 – ₱48 ($ 0.94, SGD 1.34 , MYR4 , € 0.86, AUD0.96 , ₩1,166) , motorbike ฿20 – ₱32 ($0.63, SGD 0.89, MYR 2.73, € 0.57, AUD 0.96, ₩K 777)
Open Hours: Daily, Park Gate 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, waterfall 1- 3 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM , waterfall 4-7 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
How to get to the Erawan Waterfalls: From Kanchanaburi Bus Station hop on the bus to Erawan National Park that leaves every hour from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Remember that the last bus from Erawan to Kanchanaburi leaves at 5:00 PM. Don’t miss it. Bus fare is around ฿40 – ₱64 ($ 1.25,SGD 1.78, MYR 5.46, € 1.15, AUD 1.91, ₩1,555) per person, one way. Transit time is roughly 1.5 hours.

6.WAT THAM SUA and WAT THAN KAO NOI

Kanchanaburi is sprinkled with jaw-dropping temples, and my personal favorites are Wat Tham Sua (Thai-styled temple) and Wat Than Kao Noi (Chinese-inspired temple) because of their intricate design and scenic surroundings. The temples are proudly standing on top of a limestone hill near the Mae Khlong River.

After entering the temple gates, I took an old-looking cable car going up the temple for ฿20 – ₱32 ($0.63, SGD 0.89, MYR 2.73, € 0.57, AUD 0.96, ₩K 777). You can also opt to climb for free the 157 steps stairs. The giant golden Buddha made of golden mosaics and surrounded by stupas greets the visitors here. The largest stupa here houses murals that are mostly about the war with Burma and the Buddha images in different postures. During my trip to Wat Tham Sua and Wat Than Kao Noi in Kanchanaburi, there was no crowd, except for some locals and monks sporting their orange robes happily taking photos at the temple.

Wat Tham Suea (also Wat Tham Sua) is said to be called Tiger Temple because there’s a cavern here where tigers used to live, but now, only a small tiger shrine can be seen inside the cave. Adjacent to Wat Tham Suea is the equally charming temple named What Than Kao Noi reminiscent of Chinese temples. Wat Than Kao Noi is a Buddhist temple flanked with intricate tiled Buddha images, bells, and Buddha statues. Climbing this temple offers the best view of Wat Tham Suea and the surrounding farmland.

Wat Tham Sua and Wat Than Kao Noi
Open Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
*Entrance Fee: FREE, cable car going up the temple is ฿20 – ₱32 ($0.63, SGD 0.89, MYR 2.73, € 0.57, AUD 0.96, ₩K 777)
How to get to Wat Tham Sua: There are group tours in Kanchanaburi that includes a visit to Wat Tham Sua and Wat Than Kao Noi. Alternatively, if you want a DIY Travel here, from Kanchanaburi, you can take a bus to Ratchaburi. Alight at the bus stop fronting Tha Mueang Hospital. From there, you can hire a motor taxi to take you to Wat Tham Sua. Or you can hire a tuk-tuk to take you to Wat Tham Sua from downtown Kanchanaburi.

7.ELEPHANTS WORLD KANCHANABURI

From an estimated 100,000 elephants in Thailand in the 19 th century, there are only about 3,000 domestic and 2,000 elephants in the wild now, according to Elephants World Kanchanburi . The elephants in Thailand were used to carry logs for the logging industry back in the days. But after a devastating flood in 1989, logging activity was totally banned by the government to prevent further deforestation. Since then, the elephant owners needed to find other ways to finance the food and upkeep of the elephant.

The Elephants World Kanchanaburi is a brainchild of veterinarian Dr.Samart and his wife Khun Fon. It started as a small home for the injured and elderly elephants in Kanchanaburi province. Later on, they started a fund-raising activity for the upkeep the said elephants and finally decided to switch the conservation program to an eco-tourism activity so they can self- finance the growing community of domestic elephants, mahouts, and staff. Nowadays, the Elephants World provides home to over 30 domestic elephants. They offer 3 kinds of programs – the Day Program, the Overnight Program, and the Forest Program so visitors can experience up-close and personal encounters with these elephants.

ELEPHANTS WORLD KANCHANABURI (Day Program) : RESERVE HERE

8.MALLIKA KANCHANABURI

The massive Mallika City in Kanchanaburi is a retro-city of the former Siamese lifestyle in the Chao Phraya River basin. Mallika City remakes the Golden Age era in Thailand during the reign of King Chulalungkorn (Rama V) from 1873 to1910 A.D., best known for abolishing slavery in Thailand. At Mallika City, tourists can rent and wear Thai traditional clothes as they tour around, But first, every visitor has to change their Thai Baht to ancient money called Satang at the ticket office, which can be used to buy food, drinks and handmade local crafts at Mallika village.

Some of the most famous Mallika City tourist spots includes (1.) Saphan Han , the bridge that can be moved to allow boats to pass through and believed to be King Rama’s favorite bridge, the (2.) City Tower , originally a prison tower but now used as an observation deck of Mallika City, (3.) the Ancient Market Zone (Prange Nara, Prange Phuthorn, and Prange Sappasart neighborhood) where various ancients products are on display such as candles, perfumes, dessert, etc. and visitors are highly encouraged to participate in making these products (4.) Thai traditional houses and structures like Reuan Diew – the house for commoner, Reuan Khaha Bodi – the house for the rich and ruling class, Reun Pae Floating House – shophouse or café by the river banks, and Reuan Hmoo – used by the rich people as a visitor reception area, this is where tourists can watch Thai traditional dance and show during dinner, (5.) Jasmine Garden – a garden sprinkled with various kinds of jasmine plants, which inspired the named Mallika.

Mallika Kanchanaburi
Open Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee:
MALLIKA KANCHANABURI TICKET: DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
How to get to Mallika City by public transport: To get to Mallika City by public bus, from Kanchanaburi Bus Station, a bus to Sangkhlaburi and tell the driver you are getting off at Mallika City. Fare is roughly ฿80 – ₱130 and travel time is about 3 hours. Buses run daily every 40 to 50 minutes from 07:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

9.PRASAT MUANG SINGH HISTORICAL PARK

When the Khmers abandoned Kanchanaburi, they left behind Several Bayon-style temples (similar to the temples in Cambodia ) are sprinkled around the western side of Sai Yok District. These temples where abandoned by the Khmers who constructed the said structures during the rule of King Jayavarman during the Khmer Empire era. Some of these temples can now be visited by tourists traveling to Kanchanaburi at the stunning Mueang Singh Historical Park , surrounded by verdant forest and crowned by the main shrine – Prasat Muang Singh Temple, proudly standing at the heart of the domain. The ancient Buddhist temples at Mueang Singh are made of laterite, which explains their orange color. Apart from religious reasons, it is believed that these Buddhist temples were built to serve as a military post and transit of trade along the Mae Nam Khwae Noi. While you are at it, don’t miss the prehistoric burial site with pottery, jewelry, and 2 human skeletons on display, which is said to date back 2,000 years ago before Mueang Singh was founded.

KANCHANABURI TRAVEL GUIDE: MUEANG SINGH HISTORICAL PARK

Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park

Entrance Fee: ฿100 – ₱159 ($3, SGD 4.46, MYR 13, € 3, AUD 4.79, ₩K 3.8k)

Parking fee: Car ฿50 – ₱79 ($ 1.56, SGD 2.23, MYR 7, €1.44 , AUD 2.39, ₩K 1.9k) , Motorcycle – ฿20 – ₱32 ($0.63, SGD 0.89, MYR 2.73, € 0.57, AUD 0.96, ₩K 777),

Open Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

How to get to the Muang Sing Historical Park: Take a train ( ordinary train #257 or #259) from Kanchanburi to Tha Kilen or Nam Tok Sa Yok Noi. Get off at Tha Kilen Station , travel time is about 1 hour. Then at Kilen Station, take a tuktuk to Mueang Singh Historical Park. The train departs around 10:35 AM and 4:26 PM. The train going back to Kanchanaburi leaves at 6:14 AM and 1:54 PM. Make sure not to miss the last trip going back to Kanchanaburi at 1:54 PM, be at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. If you miss it, your next option is to take a taxi to Kanchanaburi. Foreigners are typically charged a higher fare of ฿100 – ₱159 ($3, SGD 4.46, MYR 13, € 3, AUD 4.79, ₩K 3.8k) per person one-way.

10.TREE TOP ADVENTURES

If you are the adventurous type, don’t fret because Kanchanaburi is home to Tree Top Adventures. This massive nature park is packed with 40 game stations where you can try extreme and exciting adventures!

TREE TOP ADVENTURE TICKET: DISCOUNTED HERE

Diy kanchanaburi itinerary.

Here’s a sample Kanchanaburi itinerary for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 days. Feel free to tweak it depending on your budget, schedule, and preferences. Note that the transportation to and from Thailand from and to your country or next destination, accommodation, drinks, shopping, and souvenirs aren’t included in the sample expenses.

If you have more time and budget, you can extend your trip and spend 4 days, 5 days, or 6 days in Kanchanaburi using the sample itinerary below. Feel free to tweak it depending on your preferences.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN KANCHANABURI

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7 Best Places To Visit In Kanchanaburi: Explore This Beautiful Thai Town In 2024

23 Mar 2023

The Thai province of Kanchanaburi is a medley of past and present. It houses some of the horrifying yet awe-inspiring remnants of the Second World War, which are some of the top places to visit in Kanchanaburi . One can travel through time by visiting some of the war memorials and museums. In fact, you can retrace history by going back as far as the Neolithic civilization and witness the artifacts recovered from the excavation sites. Apart from the dark yet rich history, it is the scenic beauty of the majestic landscapes that make the province visit-worthy. The thundering natural waterfalls and the soothing hot springs attract tourists from near and far.

About Kanchanaburi

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The town of Kanchanaburi is located 130 kilometers away from Bangkok and is a popular escape for those hoping to lose the crowd. The thriving tropical wilderness in the protected areas is a literal breath of fresh air. It offers the tourists to weave through the complex network of caves, witness the diverse wildlife, and revisit history. The Kanchanaburi province offers varied sights, numerous activities, and memorable experiences. Nature lovers would be as excited as history buffs and Kanchanaburi embraces them all.

Places To Visit In Kanchanaburi

Amongst the many places to visit in Kanchanaburi, the following are some of the popular destinations that one must put on their list if they are visiting the province:

1. Death Railway Bridge

The Death Railway Bridge or Bridge on the River Kwai is one of the most famous places to visit in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. It has often been referenced in films and literature. The landmark was constructed by the Dutch, American, and British prisoners of war captured during WWII. It is named so since numerous men died while the bridge was being constructed. The Japanese supervised this project with the hope that the rail connection could aid their soldiers fighting in Burma. Tourists can cover sections of the bridge on foot or by rail and collect trinkets from the local markets around the area.

Must Read: 9 Best Things To Do In Kanchanaburi For An Enchanting Thai Excursion

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2. Hellfire Pass And Memorial Museum

The Hellfire Pass constitutes a stretch of the 500-meter long path carved through rock. Nearly 1000 POWs dug their way by hand to lay Hellfire Pass. During the 12-week digging period, 70% of the POWs died in deplorable conditions. Grab an audio headset narrating the history of the Hellfire Pass and relive the angst of the forced laborers. The Memorial Museum retells their story through the medium of tools, photographs, and artifacts. The Hellfire Pass and Memorial Museum are maintained by the Australian Government.

3. Erawan National Park

The Erawan National Park is a soothing contrast to the jarring remnants of the war. The majestic seven-tiered Erawan Falls reward the visitors with a treat to the eyes. The lush greens against the aqua-hued waters make the Erawan National Park a beauty to cherish. As you trudge through the National Park, you will see king cobras, gibbons, and elephants in their natural habitat. For the more adventurous kind, the Tham Phra That Caves is a must-visit.

Suggested Read: Kanchanaburi Forest Reserve: A Guide To Spend Your Next Trip At This Paradise In Thailand!

4. Elephant’s World

The elephants at the Elephant’s World are survivors of abuse and have been rescued from various illegal and unethical practices. At the Elephant’s World, you get to interact with them in the purest form, through empathy. You get to offer your services to the humongous creature and care for it. You could cook food for them, walk them, or even give them a bath in the river; all of that without causing any harm to the elephant.

5. JEATH War Museum

JEATH (Japan, England, Australia/America, Thailand , and Holland) – POWs of these allied powers were imprisoned and tortured at the prison camp situated on the grounds of Wat Chai Chumphon. It is an exact replica of the war jail camps set up during WWII. Visitors can relive the past through the accounts narrated by the prisoners or their family members. The bunks and other authentic articles each have a story to tell. The museum is maintained by monks.

Suggested Read: Kanchanaburi Travel Guide: A Handy Note On A Quaint Historical Town In Thailand

6. Saphan Mon

The world’s longest wooden bridge, Saphan Mon is significant in itself. It connects the main town to villages. It is the home to Thai, karen and mon settlement. At the other side of the bridge, there is a market where you can buy souvenirs.

7. War Museum And Art Gallery

If you want to brush off the history and culture of Thailand, then, visit this place. It is a private museum built by a jewelry entrepreneur. Apart from offering war paintings that the nation hs fought, the museum also showcases some personal collections like those of stamp and coins.

How To Reach Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is connected to Bangkok and neighboring provinces by roads and rails. By Road: Air-conditioned and non-AC buses ply from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal towards Kanchanaburi. These buses depart after every 15 minutes and take about 2 to 3 hours to reach the destination. Another way to get to Kanchanaburi by road is by boarding a minibus from the Khaosan Road, Bangkok, to get to the location within 2 hours.

By Rail: In addition to the buses, trains depart from the Thonburi Train Station (Bangkok Noi Railway Station) for Kanchanaburi. These trains travel twice a day.

Places To Stay In Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has many lodging options ranging from high-end luxury hotels to budget hotels. Some of the highly recommended hotels are:

1. Dheva Mantra Resort

Image Source The Dheva Mantra Resort is around 8 kilometers away from River Kwai and is centrally located. The colonial style resort offers spacious rooms, picturesque gardens, and a sprawling pool to beat the heat. Website

Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Thailand For Your Fun-Filled Day Trips With Friends & Family

2. Bamboo House

The Bamboo House offers two lodging options – raft houses and bungalows. While the bungalows are the regular run-of-the-mill accommodation, it is the raft houses that enjoy great popularity. The raft houses float right on the river offering stunning views.

3. Pong Phen Guesthouse and Bungalows

Image Source The 2-star accommodation is pocket-friendly option at the walking distance from the War Cemetery. The quality of the food served at the hotel is exceptional. Website

Suggested Read: 5 Best Nude Beaches In Thailand That One Cannot Afford To Miss

4. Royal River Kwai Resort & Spa

The Royal River Kwai Resort houses spacious rooms with cozy decorations. The sprawling pool offers a break to those looking to escape the heat. Additionally, the riverside location makes this scenic hotel a value for money option.

5. Mida Resort Kanchanaburi

Image Source With multiple river-facing rooms, the Mida Resort offered stunning views. You could request to set up a luxury tent by the river as the resort’s waterfall lulls you to sleep.

Further Read: Nightlife In Thailand: 7 Best Thailand Bars And Clubs That’ll Evoke Your Inner Party Animal

Kanchanaburi serves a slice of anthropogenic history with the sides of nature’s beauty, the contrast of the gruesome and the marvelous. Thus, it is definitely a place worth a visit. Book your trip to Thailand with Traveltriangle and have a great time as you take a tour of the places to visit in Kanchanaburi.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kanchanaburi

What is Kanchanaburi famous for?

Kanchanaburi is famous for the Death Railway bridge.

Is Kanchanaburi worth visiting?

Yes, Kanchanaburi is definitely worth visiting.

How do I get to Erawan waterfall?

You can reach Erawan waterfall by bus. Take the bus 8170 from Kanchanaburi bus station and get down at Srinakarin market which is 1 km away from the waterfall.

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"The wild west"

Kanchanaburi tourism.

Blessed with ancient rainforests, waterfalls and limestone caves, Kanchanaburi is a popular resort town located at the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers in western Thailand. Regarded as Thailand's microcosm, Kanchanaburi and its surrounding region boast stylish resorts, scenic reservoirs, pagodas, historical sites, trekking, golfing and white-water rafting destinations. Located just 2 hours away from Bangkok, the town is mainly reachable by roadways and trains, with the latter being the more common.

Kanchanaburi attracts a lot of backpackers and those interested in Thailand's gruesome World War II history. Kanchanaburi's WWII-era Burma Railway, built by prisoners of war, was immortalised in the film 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'. The bridge, and the railway line, along with other war remnant historical sites and museums, stand as proof of this quiet town's past. Kanchanaburi, as mentioned earlier, is blessed with untouched flora and fauna. Erawan National Park is a soothing contrast to the world war remnant experience of the town. The park shelters tropical jungles, gibbons, cobras and elephants, aqua-coloured seven-tiered waterfalls for swimming, and the extensive Tham Phra That Caves system. Travellers especially go on hiking trips to tourist hotspots within the lush vegetation or nearby villages. While Kanchanaburi was mainly a backpacker's haven, over the years, many affluent resorts and hotels have come into business, providing a more modern stay experience without taking away from the old-world charm of the town and its surrounding regions. For those who wish to experience a bucolic Thailand and immerse themselves in a historical journey, this laid-back town is more than ideal.

Things To Do In Kanchanaburi

Wat Wang Wiwekaram

Bridge On The River Kwai (Death Railway bridge)

Wat Tham Suea (Tha Muang)

ElephantsWorld Kanchanaburi

Sunken Temple

JJ Night Market Kanchanaburi

Top Hotels In Kanchanaburi

₽ 1,508 onwards

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Shopping in Kanchanaburi

Traveller tips.

Kanchanaburi is not very strict with following any particular dressing code, so if you're visiting during the summer months, feel free to wear shorts.

Although, while entering temples, you should be careful and preferably cover yourself appropriately.

Thais are very calm and patient people, so always maintain a smile on your face while talking to them because being rude is going to get you no good.

Tipping is not common, but it's nice to tip waiters or hotel staff for good service.

Daily Budget & Money Exchange

The most important consideration in Kanchanaburi is the access fee to various museums and national parks which range from 100-200 Baht. The food here is comparitively cheaper costing you around 300 Baht per day. Travelling around costs 80-100 Baht. So in total, a daily budget of 1,000 Baht would suffice.

Currency exchange services are offered at almost all the banks.
Some of the larger hotels and resorts also provide currency exchange services.

Language of Kanchanaburi

Thai and especially southern Thai, is spoken more in Kanchanaburi. Most hotels and restaurants have staff who speak English, so it shouldn't be challenging to converse for tourists. However, some local vendors might know very little English, so learning a few Thai phrases is advisable for a smoother experience.

History of Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has a more recent history, dating back to World War II. The Death Railway was built by the Allied prisoners of war and the Asian labourers under the Japanese command during the war. Due to time restrictions, thousands of Australians, British, Dutch and other Allied POWs were forced to work on the Thai-Burma military supply railway. While working, most of them died.

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The official website of Tourism Authority of Thailand
The official site of Tourism Authority of Thailand. Amazing Thailand, Travel information, Travel guide, maps, hotels, accommodation, attractions, events & festivals, food, culture, shopping information to help you plan your Thailand vacations. ... Kanchanaburi is an excellent tourist Destination for nature lovers. recommended places to visit in ...
The Complete Travel Guide To Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Get our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide, where you'll find all the necessary information before your trip to Thailand. 2 Travel Guide to Kanchanaburi, Thailand. 2.1 The River Kwai Bridge. 2.2 Erawan National Park. 2.3 Tham Krasae.
KANCHANABURI: Guide to the Famous Bridge Town [2024]
Kanchanaburi is a small quiet town in west-central Thailand, known mainly for it's leading role during the Japanese invasion in World War II, when over two hundred thousand Allied and Asian prisoners of war were forced to build the Death Railway. It's most emblematic element, the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, is located in Kanchanaburi ...
13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kanchanaburi
Plan your trip with our list of the top tourist attractions in Kanchanaburi. See also: Where to Stay in Kanchanaburi. On This Page: 1. Walk or Ride on the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge) 2. Get a History Lesson at the Thailand Burma Railway Centre & Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. 3.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kanchanaburi
per adult (price varies by group size) Erawan Waterfalls-Death Railway & River Kwai Tour. 25. Historical Tours. from. $125. per adult (price varies by group size) Kanchanaburi and the Bridge over the River Kwai Day Tour. 3.
Kanchanaburi Travel Guide, Traveling Tips & Advice [2023 Guide]
Welcome to Thailand Travel Hub's complete guide to Kanchanaburi, a wonderful, smaller city only two hours from Bangkok, located within arguably the country's most beautiful province. It is most famous for being home to the "Death Railway" and the bridge on the River Kwai, made famous in the movie of the same name from 1957, which are very ...
13 Amazing Things to do in Kanchanaburi Province
4. Sai Yok Noi Waterfall. The Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, also called Khao Pung, is located 48 kilometers northwest of Kanchanaburi. It is less touristy than the Erawan Falls and sees even fewer tourists than the Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. The best time to visit this waterfall is in the wet season from June to October.
12 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Take a Ride on the Train. Riding the train across the bridge then to Nam Tok is a popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi. The slow-moving train click clacks along with the main event being a crossing of the Wang Po viaduct. The wooden trestle is crude, original, and was constructed by POWs in a record 17 days and nights.
33 Amazing things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Ride a train on the Death Railway is one of the main things to do in Kanchanaburi. #2 Cross the bridge over the River Kwai. The famous bridge is not the most beautiful bridge in the world but a quite standard one. It's the tragic history of the place that makes this bridge special.
Kanchanaburi
Get around [ edit] 14°2′3″N 99°31′22″E. Map of Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi is just a little too stretched out to comfortably walk. Small orange and large yellow songthaews (converted pickups) cruise up and down Saeng Chuto, connecting bus station, train station, and the bridge, and charge a standard 10 baht.
Kanchanaburi travel
Kanchanaburi. Thailand, Asia. Beyond its hectic modern center and river views, Kanchanaburi (กาญจนบุรี) has a dark history, paid tribute to at excellent memorials and museums. During WWII, Japanese forces used Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and conscripted Asian laborers to build a rail route from Thailand to Burma (Myanmar).
Kanchanaburi Province travel
Kanchanaburi Province. Thailand, Asia. Given the jaw-dropping natural beauty of Kanchanaburi Province (กาญจนบุรี), it seems paradoxical that the region is best known for the horrors of WWII's Death Railway. The provincial capital's war memorials are a mandatory stop before heading deeper into the parks and preserves that ...
Kanchanaburi Itinerary for 2 or 3 days + Things to do
Part of the bridge was bombed but was later rebuilt and is now the most popular tourist attraction in Kanchanaburi. If you followed this Kanchanaburi travel itinerary to a T, you should arrive at the River Kwai Bridge at around 2.30 p.m just in time to see the train pass through at 2.40 p.m. The train also crosses the bridge at 6.15 a.m, 7.12 a ...
25 Best Things to Do in Kanchanaburi (Thailand)
The province of Kanchanaburi in Thailand is located just 130km away from the city of Bangkok and is a popular tourist destination for both foreigners and Thais looking to escape the craziness of Bangkok. An area filled with magnificent landscapes and natural charming beauty, you will find there are plenty of places to relax in this province as you check out the fabulous natural waterfalls and ...
11 AWESOME Things to Do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand (2024)
Top 11 Things to Do in Kanchanaburi. Walk Over the Bridge over the River Kwai. Visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. Ride the Thai-Burma Railway (Death Railway) Explore Tham Krasae. Learn the History at Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum. Stay in a Floating Raft House. Wat Sam Prasop (the Sunken Temple), in Sangkhla Buri.
A Complete Guide to Kanchanaburi: Itinerary, What to see, Where to Eat
1.) Rent a car from Kanchanaburi, which will cost you around 2000 baht. 2.) Take a train to Namtok for 100 baht per person (The train leaves you barely any time to get on if its delayed) 1 hour taxi ride to Erawan National Park -1000 baht. 3.)Take the bus back-but be timely, because it leaves at 4 pm.
7 Days in Kanchanaburi Itinerary for First-Timers
For this itinerary, we will be renting a scooter in Kanchanaburi City for 2 days and Sangkhlaburi for 1 day to visit some of the harder-to-reach tourist attractions. By Trains: Kanchanaburi is known for its Death Railway, which goes through the River Kwai bridge and the wooden trestle of Tham Krasae.
2023 Kanchanaburi Travel Guide (Itinerary + Budget) Blog
Tourists can take the historic train route along the Bangkok Noi-Nam Tok rail line from Thonburi Station, Bangkok to Kanchanaburi train station or River Kwai Bridge. Travel time is roughly 2.5 - 3 hours and Kanchanaburi train fare is approximately ฿100 - ₱159 ($3, SGD 4.46, MYR 13, € 3, AUD 4.79, ₩K 3.8k).
17 Awesome Things To Do In Kanchanaburi, Thailand for First-Timers
Wat Baan Thum is free to enter for both Thais and foreigners, and it opens from 8 AM to 5 PM. There are over 600 steps until you reach the top, and Kanchanaburi's heat can be quite brutal, so do prepare accordingly. 7. Be Amazed at the Scale of Wat Tham Sua.
7 Places To Visit In Kanchanaburi: Tour The Town In 2023
Amongst the many places to visit in Kanchanaburi, the following are some of the popular destinations that one must put on their list if they are visiting the province: 1. Death Railway Bridge. Image Source. The Death Railway Bridge or Bridge on the River Kwai is one of the most famous places to visit in Kanchanaburi, Thailand.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Kanchanaburi (UPDATED 2024)
Points of Interest & Landmarks. By Daydream52529576719. There are many places to worship and there is a temple at the top of the hill. 10. Kanchanaburi Night Market. 142. Flea & Street Markets. By pinza55007.
Kanchanaburi Thailand Tourism (2024) Travel Guide
Kanchanaburi Tourism. Blessed with ancient rainforests, waterfalls and limestone caves, Kanchanaburi is a popular resort town located at the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers in western Thailand. Regarded as Thailand's microcosm, Kanchanaburi and its surrounding region boast stylish resorts, scenic reservoirs, pagodas, historical ...

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The Complete Travel Guide To Kanchanaburi, Thailand

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Erawan National Park

Hellfire Pass

Death Railway Museum

Visit The Mall

See The Giant Raintree

Wat Tham Khiritham

Is Kanchanaburi, Thailand safe?

How To Get Around Kanchanaburi, Thailand

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Kanchanaburi, the city of the bridge

ℹ️ Top Things to Do in Kanchanaburi

Death Railway Museum

Wat Tham Suea and Wat Tham Khao

Hellfire Pass

Ride on the Death Railway

Erawan Waterfall

Allied Cemeteries

Prasat Meuang Singh

Sleep in a Floating House

🏨 Where to stay in Kanchanaburi

South Mae Nam Khwae Rd.

North Mae Nam Khwae Rd.

Outskirts Riverside

🧭 Itinerary to visit Kanchanaburi

✈️ Arriving to Kanchanaburi

🚊 By Train: from Bangkok

🚇 Where to go next?

Discover Thailand with us!

13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kanchanaburi

1. Walk or Ride on the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge)

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Kanchanaburi Travel Guide Contents

Places To Go View All

Giant Rain Tree

Hellfire Pass

Wat Tham Suea

The River Kwai Bridge

Things To Do View All

Bell’s Pizzeria

Mangosteen Cafe and Books

Bicycle Cafe Garage and Tavern

Hotels & Resorts View All

Sam’s House Guesthouse

X2 River Kwai Resort

River Kwai Bridge Resort

Royal River kwai Resort & Spa

Tours & Activities View All

Burma Death Railway Bridge and Kwai River from Bangkok

Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour

Kanchanaburi Travel Guide Map

Kanchanaburi Weather & When to Go

How To Get To Kanchanaburi

Getting Around Kanchanaburi

Best things To See & Do In Kanchanaburi

Tour the Amazing Temples of Kanchanaburi

Learn About the History of Kanchanaburi during WW2

Visit Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park

Go Jungle Trekking at a National Park

Try the Local Cuisine

Grab a Bargain at the Markets

Relax with a Massage and Spa Visit

Kanchanaburi’s Nightlife

Where To Stay In Kanchanaburi

Prices, Expenses & Typical Costs

Kanchanaburi Money Saving Tips

Is it Safe To Travel Around Kanchanaburi

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13 Amazing Things to do in Kanchanaburi Province