The 10 Best Things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Kanchanaburi Province in Thailand is a hidden gem, filled with natural wonders and plenty of places to relax. If you’re looking for a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, or simply want to explore some of Thailand’s most beautiful landscapes, then Kanchanaburi is the place for you! In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in the area – from exploring the province’s waterfalls and hot springs to checking out its historical attractions.

The province of Kanchanaburi in Thailand is not only scenic but also rich in history. During World War II, the Japanese came here and built the Death Railway, which claimed the lives of thousands of innocent people.

Today, you can see the memories of this tragic event by visiting the many memorials and museums that are dotted around the area. The Death Railway is a particularly haunting reminder of the past, and it’s well worth taking the time to learn about its history.

For nature lovers, there are plenty of things to see and do in the surrounding area. Several national parks lie within easy reach, offering the chance to see some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Waterfalls, caves, and a diversity of wildlife await those who venture into these parks, making them the perfect place to explore and get away from it all. In addition to national parks, there are also many smaller parks and reserves where you can see wild gibbons, monkeys, and birds in their natural habitat.

Photo: @luschay.igor

Kanchanaburi is a popular day trip destination for visitors who want to relax by the river. Many of them come for just a couple days but end up staying for weeks in order to explore all the surrounding countryside. There are plenty of cold drinks and good books available, making it the perfect place to unwind. However, there are also plenty of attractions in the surrounding area, so there’s never a need to be bored. Visitors can explore temples, waterfalls, and caves, or go hiking and rafting.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous hike or a stroll, there’s sure to be somewhere that suits your needs. So why not get out and explore what nature has to offer?

Kanchanaburi is an incredibly beautiful and moving place, and I urge everyone to come and experience it for themselves. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Thailand’s most charming provinces!

Discover the remains of World War II on the Death Railway

The Death Railway is a stretch of railroad built during World War II that runs from Thailand to Burma. The Thai-Burma railway was built by Allied prisoners of war, who were forced to work in incredibly harsh conditions.

An estimated 16,000 prisoners died during the construction of the railway. Today, the Death Railway is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can ride a portion of the railway on a historical steam train. The Death Railway is a sobering reminder of the suffering inflicted during wartime, and it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in world history.

JEATH War Museum

The JEATH War Museum in Kanchanaburi, Thailand is a must-see for anyone interested in World War II history. The museum is housed in an old wooden building that was once used as a prison camp by the Japanese during the war. The museum contains a collection of photographs, documents, and personal belongings that tell the story of the prisoners who were held there.

The museum also has a memorial dedicated to the victims of the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. The JEATH War Museum is a moving tribute to the men who lost their lives during World War II, and it is well worth a visit.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 6,000 Allied soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The cemetery is located just outside of the city of Kanchanaburi.

The cemetery was built in 1946 by the Imperial War Graves Commission, and it is now maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is a beautiful and solemn place, and it is well worth a visit if you are in the area.

The cemetery grounds are immaculately kept, and the headstones are carefully inscribed with the names and ranks of those who are buried there. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, and it is a fitting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum is a site of great importance and sadness. It is a part of the Death Railway that was built by prisoners of war during World War II. The railway was a cruel and inhumane project, and the prisoners were forced to use hand drills, picks, and shovels to carve the rock so that a train could pass.

The museum is a testament to the suffering of those who perished during the construction of the railway. It is also a reminder of the inhumanity of war, and the importance of remembering those who have lost their lives in conflict. Visitors to the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum will find it to be a moving and thought-provoking experience.

Walk over the Death Railway Bridge on the River Kwai

Death Railway Bridge over River Kwai

“Bridge on the River Kwai” is one of the most iconic war films of all time. Released in 1957, the film tells the story of Allied prisoners of war who are forced to build a bridge for their captors, the Japanese soldiers. The Death Railway Bridge was a key strategic location, and the Japanese were determined to complete it at any cost.

The film was shot in Thailand, and the actual bridge is located in Kanchanaburi. Today, the Death Railway Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand.

You can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the surrounding jungle and mountains. For the best experience, plan to visit an hour before sunset. The light will be perfect for taking photos, and you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of the jungle as the sun sets.

Sai Yok Noi Waterfall

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder, look no further than Sai Yok Noi waterfall in Thailand. This gorgeous waterfall is located in the Tenasserim Hills and is one of the most popular attractions in the Sai Yok National Park.

The waterfall gets its name from the limestone cliffs that collapse into it, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular spot. The cascading water is simply mesmerizing, and the surrounding jungle makes it feel like you’re worlds away from everything.

The water starts at the top of the mountain and flows down tiny streams, before plummeting 15 meters to a limestone crag. The sight of water freely gliding down the hillside beneath peaceful trees and reeds along the shore, with a refreshing wind is breathtaking.

Erawan National Park

Waterfall in the Erawan National Park in Thailand.
Waterfall at Erawan National Park

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder in Thailand, look no further than Erawan National Park. Located near Kanchanaburi, the park spans 550 square kilometers and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.

However, the park’s most iconic feature is the seven-tiered Erawan waterfall, considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls and swim in the refreshing pools, or simply enjoy the views from one of the many lookout points. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, a day trip to Erawan National Park is sure to leave you awestruck.

Wat Tham Khao Noi

Wat Tham Khao Noi bells
Bells at the temple Tham Khao Noi

Wat Tham Khao Noi is a beautiful and sacred temple located in Ta Mueang District, Thailand. The temple is best known for its Chinese-influenced architecture, which can be seen in its chedi, ordination hall, and the surrounding buildings. The temple grounds are stunning, and the views from the top of the hill are breathtaking.

The layout of the Wat Tham Khao Noi Temple is that of a typical Chinese Buddhist temple with a main hall, side halls, courtyards, and beautiful gardens. Inside the main hall is a statue of the Buddha that is surrounded by smaller statues of disciples.

Wat Tham Sua

The Tiger Cave Temple

Wat Tham Sua, or Tiger Cave Temple, is a temple located just outside of Krabi Town in Kanchanaburi. The temple gets its name from the tiger paw prints that can be seen in the stone inside the cave. Visitors to the temple can climb the 1,272 steps to the top of the hill for an incredible view of the surrounding jungle.

Along the way, there are a number of statues and shrines to explore. At the summit, there is a large golden Buddha that overlooks the jungle below. Tiger Cave Temple is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The temple is a beautiful and peaceful place, and the views from the top are simply stunning.

Wat Sam Prasop

Wat Sam Prasop, or the Sunken Temple, is a must-see for any traveler to Kanchanaburi. The temple is believed to have sunk into the river hundreds of years ago, and today only its spire is visible above the water.

Visitors can take a boat out to the temple, and if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of some of the resident turtles. The temple is surrounded by lush green jungle, making it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch. Just be sure to bring your mosquito repellent!

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Daniel Carlbom
I love to travel and explore the world with my family. When I'm not traveling, time is usually spent enjoying time with my wife and kids at home, playing with the dogs, or roaming around with a camera.

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