Explore Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi offers plenty of sights and activities to visitors. Only 2 hours from Bangkok by car, Kanchanaburi is very accessible, yet feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Many visitors come to see sights that are related to WWII such as the bridge and the war cemetery, but Kanchanaburi is also blessed with many natural beauties, scenic wonders, and unique local communities; making this province one of the most intriguing in Thailand to explore.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
The Bridge over the River Kwai:
If you are a war history fan then the bridge over the river Kwai is not to be missed. The famous bridge which was built during World War II by POWs is Kanchanburi’s most famous sight, it is visited by thousands of tourists each month and is still being used for rail purposes to this day.
Thai-Burma Railway:
Also known as the Death Railway, the ride from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok is one of Thailand’s most scenic and most popular train rides. Though the views are lovely, it’s the history that makes the ride so special, so it’s worth visiting the Thailand–Burma Railway Centre in Kanchanaburi before making the trip.
Hellfire Pass & Museum:
The Hellfire Pass is a 500 m-long portion of rock that 1,000 prisoners of war dug out (by hand) to pave the way for the Death Railway. Hundreds died during the 12-week digging period. Today, it’s possible to walk the old railway track into the jungle (which takes 4-5 hours), and visit a memorial museum honoring those who died.
Erawan Waterfalls:
One of Thailand’s most famous waterfalls is split into seven levels and offers a nice half day or full day trek to visitors of this region.
Saiyok National Park:
Sai Yok National Park has waterfalls, limestone caves, hot springs and accommodation. Tour organisers in Kanchanaburi can arrange day outings to these parks on various expeditions: river kayaking, elephant trekking, waterfall spotting and bamboo rafting.
Elephant World:
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, visitors spend the day in the service of the animals – preparing food for them and bathing them in the river.
Tham Khao Noi Temple:
A sacred Anam-Nigaya Buddhist temple located near ontop of a hill in Ta Muang District. The temple is best known for its Chinese-influenced architecture which sees from its chedi, ordination hall and the surrounding buildings. The terrace on the top platform alos gets you a panoramic view of this small town.
Prasat Muang Singh:
These ancient ruins were once an outpost built against the Burmese. Here you’ll find a preserved shrine and tower gates, and ancient inscriptions in the courtyard. There is also a museum on the premises where visitors can view artifacts and relics already been discovered at the site.
