Sangkhlaburi is a small, laid back town in a scenic setting some 225km northwest of Kanchanaburi and a mere 24 km from the Burmese border at Three Pagodas Pass. Set towards the end of one of Thailand's most spectacular roads, Sangkhlaburi is situated on the low hills edging Vajiralongkorn Lake (previously known as Khao Laem Lake) and is surrounded to the north and east by higher, forest covered limestone ranges. The outlying area hosts numerous caves, waterfalls, Karen and Mon villages, the vast Thung Yai Naresuan wildlife reserve and Khao Laem National Park to the south.

While Sangkhlaburi was traditionally a Karen town, the more recent influx of Thais along with numerous Mon and Burmese settlers fleeing the problems over the border, has created a particularly culturally and religiously diverse town -- yet another reason to make sure you fit this lovely town into your itinerary.

Sangkhlaburi is popular with Thai weekenders from Bangkok, but little frequented by western travellers, a pity since it is well worth a visit, a great place to chill out and has enough sights and things to do to keep one occupied for several days if not longer. While having a very remote feel to it, Sangkhlaburi can in fact be reached by bus from Bangkok in around seven hours.

Higher altitude and the presence of the lake can make it very damp during the reainy season and considerably cooler at night-time than say Kanchanaburi.

With the cooler weather, stunning natural beauty, hospitable locals and a range of activities including trekking, rafting and elephant riding, Sangkhlaburi remains one of our favourite destinations in Thailand. Highly recommended.