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Kanchanaburi

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In a nutshell

Take it easy on a rafthouse floating on the River Kwai after checking out the Death Railway Bridge. Reflect at various war memorials and cemeteries, in particular the moving Hellfire Pass. Take a Thai cuisine cooking course. Hike to Erawan Waterfalls amid Thai tourist hordes.

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The bridge over the River Kwai festival

Famous as the location of the film Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi is the provincial capital of the same-named province. Situated only 128km from Bangkok, it's a favourite spot for a weekend getaway for both expats and Thais alike, while backpackers also flock here. With its serene river, lush green surrounds and quiet temples, the bucolic charm of Kanchanaburi has been steadily attracting visitors for decades.

Kanchanaburi serves as an ideal base for exploring the province. There is adequate public transport, loads of tour options and great roads for those finding their own way about.

While Kanchanaburi province boasts some of Thailand's most popular national parks, the town itself is more a place to relax on a raft house and watch the water slide by, feet in river with a cold drink and a good book.

Attractions such as a floating nun, controversial Tiger Temple, and war museums and cemeteries make this a spot to easily while away a few days.


If you're killing a couple of days waiting for a visa, this beats Khao San Road hands down. Many come here for two days, but end up staying weeks.

Our recommendations

So much to do, so little time. If you've got a crammed travelling schedule, then bite the bullet and do a tour. It's not often that Travelfish recommends doing a tour, but this is one case it can work for you. Kanchanaburi province's sights are sprawled over a massive area and the tours are often great value. Sure you'll miss out on a few creakingly slow bus rides and interminable waits by the roadside, but you'll get to see a lot more than the roadside.

In town itself, do a cooking course (Apple's continues to get great reviews, though pass on their rooms) and try a boat ride if you've got some cash to burn. If you're on a tight budget, grab a floating room with a hammock, pack a few books and dangle your feet in the water -- that's what Kanchanaburi is all about.

A word of warning to those not into extreme heat: In April the mercury bursts right through the top of the thermometer -- air-con will be a sound investment.

One more piece of advice: Don't visit the Tiger Temple. Read here to find out why.



Text and/or map last updated on 5th September, 2010.

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