Kanchanaburi

“Muang” Kanchanaburi is the capital of the Province, located where the River Kwai Noi and River Kwai Yai merge to form the Maeklong (Mekong).

An ancient Thai civilisation, best know for it’s more recent history when, during World War II the Japanese Imperial Army began construction of the infamous “Death Railway” which included the Bridge Over The River Kwai. In total, over 100,000 POW’s lost their lives building the railway, tunnels and the famous bridge.

A relatively modern province, the origins can be traced back to the reign of King Rama I, who established the area as a defence against the invading Burmese in the late 18th century. The Thais and Burmese have a long history of crossborder troubles and Three Pagodas Pass in Sangkhlaburi district is still used today as a smuggling route! Over the next century, Thailand as a nation became the economic power of South East Asia, due in large part to the creation of small towns such as Kanchanaburi, complimenting the established Kingdoms of Ayutthaya, Sukothai and of course Bangkok.
There is an increasingly thriving backpacker scene taking advantage of the chilled-out riverside vibe for those that need 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.
The area northwest of Kanchanaburi is dominated by the beautiful River Kwai Valleys. It is an area of great natural beauty, with a dazzling amount of waterfalls, caves, lakes and mountainous scenery. Most attractions can be visited as a day-trip from Kanchanaburi.
The area northwest of Kanchanaburi is dominated by the beautiful River Kwai Valleys. It is an area of great natural beauty, with a dazzling amount 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 visit Hellfire Pass and the Erawan Falls in one day, be aware there is no public bus connection between them although there are guided tours.