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Kanchanaburi travel guide
Guide me through Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a well-known modern city with a dark history. Travelers visit to see the infamous Death Railway and the bridge over the River Kwai. You can explore the grim history of World War II through impressive museums and a walk on the Hellfire Pass. There’s more to discover in this diverse city. During your trip to Kanchanaburi, consider taking the train to visit Erawan National Park, hike to the Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, or travel back to Bangkok. Although Kanchanaburi is close to the capital of Thailand, it’s not heavily touristed, making it the perfect place to meet locals and enjoy the stunning nature.
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general information about Kanchanaburi
Some History
Kanchanaburi has a significant historical background from World War II. The city was the site of intense suffering as people were forced to build a railroad for transporting weapons and equipment. Many workers lost their lives due to the harsh working conditions and military violence. When visiting this city, the famous bridge over the River Kwai is a must-see attraction. This bridge is well-known from books and movies and can be crossed on foot or viewed from the surrounding park.
For those interested in learning more about the history and the Second World War, there are two excellent museums. The JEATH War Museum depicts the appalling conditions during the war, while the Death Railway Museum tells the complete story of the railroad line’s construction. If you have to choose between the two, we recommend the Death Railways Museum. A visit to the cemetery also offers a glimpse of the tragic events of the past.
To gain a firsthand experience of how the railroad was built, a visit to Hellfire Pass, located just outside the city, is recommended. A hike over the Hellfire Pass showcases the challenges of laying rails in this area. The Hellfire Pass now houses a museum that provides important additional information about the original site.
best temples & caves in Kanchanaburi
Temples & Caves
Temples in Kanchanaburi are distinct from other temples in Thailand. While there are regular temples with a stupa and Buddha statues spread throughout the city, the special ones are located a little outside in the south of the old town.
Wat Tham Mangkornthong and Wat Ban Tham are cave temples that were built into a mountain and can be reached via a longer staircase. Both offer beautiful views and are surrounded by stunning nature. Wat Tham Suea, also known as Tiger Cave Temple, features a huge Buddha statue and a climbable tower. All three temples are highly recommended for a visit.
Best nature to explore around Kanchanaburi
stunning nature
If you’re looking to get away from the city and unwind in nature, Kanchanaburi, Thailand has plenty of opportunities to do just that.
One of the most popular spots in the area is the stunning Erawan National Park, known for its multi-level waterfalls.
Closer to the city is Sai Yok National Park, which is famous for its beautiful rivers and impressive waterfalls. While visiting elephant camps is a tempting activity in Thailand, particularly in this region, it’s important to choose ethical ones and avoid riding these magnificent creatures.