Kanchanaburi is a province in western Thailand, known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty. It is located on the banks of the Kwai River, which was made famous by the Bridge on the River Kwai. Kanchanaburi is also home to Erawan National Park, which is known for its waterfalls and caves.
Kanchanaburi tourist destination, Thailand
Things to do
- Bridge on the River Kwai: This bridge was built by Allied prisoners of war during World War II. It is now a popular tourist destination and is featured in the movie of the same name. www.travelphotographyguru.com Bridge on the River Kwai.
- Erawan National Park: This national park is home to a variety of waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails. The most popular waterfall is Erawan Waterfall, which has seven tiers. www.viator.com Erawan National Park.
- Hellfire Pass: This is a World War II museum located in the jungle. It commemorates the Allied prisoners of war who died while building the Burma Railway. www.tourismthailand.org Hellfire Pass.
- River Kwai Jungle Railway: This is a train ride that takes you through the jungle along the Kwai River. It is a popular way to see the scenery and learn about the history of the area. wanderingwagars.com River Kwai Jungle Railway.
- Tham Khao Noi: This cave is located near Sai Yok National Park. It is home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites. www.thailandee.com Tham Khao Noi.
- Mae Klong Railway Market: This floating market is located in the town of Damnoen Saduak. It is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to see the local produce. yourthaiguide.com Mae Klong Railway Market.
- Tham Khao Pom Cave: This cave is home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites and is a popular spot for exploring. www.letsventureout.com Tham Khao Pom Cave.
- Phra That Chai Mongkhon: This temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is known for its reclining Buddha statue. www.getyourguide.com Phra That Chai Mongkhon.
- Kanchanaburi War Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place of over 7,000 Allied prisoners of war who died during the construction of the Death Railway. en.wikipedia.org Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.
- Jeath War Museum: This museum tells the story of the construction of the Death Railway from the Japanese perspective. en.wikipedia.orgJ eath War Museum.
- Srinagarindra Dam: This dam offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. en.wikipedia.org Srinagarindra Dam.
Where to eat
Here are the top 10 places to eat in Kanchanaburi Thailand in 2023, based on Tripadvisor reviews:
- Keeree Mantra Kanchanaburi. This restaurant has a beautiful setting with views of the river and mountains. The menu features traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist. www.tourismthailand.org Keeree Mantra Kanchanaburi restaurant.
- KAN BURI. This casual restaurant is a great option for those looking for good value for money. The menu features a variety of Thai and Western dishes. maps.google.com KAN BURI restaurant.
- Good Times Restaurant. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The food is delicious and the service is friendly. www.booking.com Good Times Restaurant.
- On’s Thai Issan. This restaurant serves up authentic Issan cuisine, a northeastern Thai style of cooking. The dishes are spicy and flavorful. www.tielandtothailand.com On’s Thai Issan restaurant.
- Blue Rice Restaurant by Apple & Noi. This restaurant is known for its fresh, organic ingredients. The menu features a variety of Thai and Western dishes. www.cntraveler.com Blue Rice Restaurant by Apple & Noi.
- Zeb Zeb. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on grilled meats and seafood. The views of the river are also amazing. www.tripadvisor.com Zeb Zeb restaurant.
- Bell’s Pizzeria. This restaurant is a great option for those looking for a taste of Italy. The pizzas are made with fresh, local ingredients. fr.tripadvisor.ch Bell’s Pizzeria restaurant.
- Tapas Thai. This restaurant offers a variety of Thai tapas, or small plates. This is a great option for sharing and trying a variety of dishes. phranakhon.co.uk Tapas Thai restaurant.
- Grills House Kanchanaburi. This restaurant is a great option for those looking for a casual meal with a view. The barbecued meats are a popular choice. www.tripadvisor.com Grills House Kanchanaburi restaurant.
- The Loft. This restaurant has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. The menu features a variety of Thai and international dishes. www.tripadvisor.com Loft restaurant. These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Kanchanaburi. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Where to stay
Here are the top 10 places to stay in Kanchanaburi, Thailand in 2023:
- The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort. Chic floating villas on a polished resort in the jungle, offering river views, dining & canoeing. www.booking.com FloatHouse River Kwai Resort.
- River Kwai Resotel. Low-key bungalows in a relaxed, riverside hotel with open-air dining, a jungle-themed bar & a pool. www.booking.com River Kwai Resotel.
- Cross River Kwai. Posh riverside lodging offering an industrial-chic restaurant, an outdoor pool & loaner bikes. www.booking.com Cross River Kwai.
- River Kwai Jungle Rafts Floating Hotel. Low-key, floating jungle lodge offering open-air dining, a bar & massage facilities. www.tripadvisor.com River Kwai Jungle Rafts Floating Hotel.
- Good Times Resort. Spacious rooms with balconies in a riverside resort with a restaurant & a bar. www.booking.com Good Times Resort.
- U Inchantree Kanchanaburi. Luxurious hotel with stylish rooms, a spa, a pool & a restaurant. www.hotelscombined.com.sg U Inchantree.
- Princess River Kwai Hotel. Upscale hotel with a riverfront location, a restaurant & a bar. www.booking.com Princess River Kwai Hotel.
- The Haven Kanchanaburi. Boutique hotel with stylish rooms, a spa, a pool & a restaurant. elephanthaventhailand.org Haven.
- Kanchanaburi City Hotel. Budget-friendly hotel with a riverfront location, a restaurant & a bar. www.booking.com Kanchanaburi City Hotel.
- Hop Inn Kanchanaburi. Clean rooms in a budget hotel with a pool & restaurant. us.trip.com Hop Inn Kanchanaburi.
These are just a few of the many great places to stay in Kanchanaburi. The best place for you will depend on your budget, your interests, and your travel style.
I would recommend The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort for its unique location and its stunning views of the river. It is also a good choice for couples and families.
If you are on a budget, I would recommend Kanchanaburi City Hotel. It is a simple and affordable option that is still located in a great location.
Ultimately, the best place to stay in Kanchanaburi depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Tips for tourists
- The best time to visit Kanchanaburi is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
- The currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB).
- The official language of Thailand is Thai. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Be sure to bargain when shopping. This is a common practice in Thailand.
- Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated.
- Drink bottled water. Tap water in Thailand is not safe to drink.
- Get travel insurance. This will protect you in case of any medical emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances.