In the west of central Thailand lies Kanchanaburi, an intriguing place to visit due to its dark history.
Less known is that its natural beauty is worth the trip itself. Blessed with abundant waterfalls, caves, lakes and hot springs, much of which can be explored in its national parks.
Kanchanaburi is home to seven impressive national parks. Probably the most beautiful of all is Erawan National Park, mainly due to the spectacular Erawan Falls. Seven levels of falls cascade down into the main pool, providing multiple scenic and refreshing swimming spots. If you only have time to visit one park, make it Erawan. However, if you have the time, Srinakarin is well worth a visit for the Huay Mae Khamin waterfalls.
Buddhist Temples.
Phrabhavanaviriyakhun, the famous Buddhist monk, was born in Kanchanaburi. Near the temple Wat Tham Phu, there is a series of shrines in a limestone cave system dedicated to The Buddha, each statue representing a different facet of his life. There are several beautiful temples worth visiting in the area, including Kuan Yum, Wat Tham Mungkorn Thong, and Wat Tham Khao Noi being the most noteworthy
World War II Sites.
The Kanchanaburi region was the home of a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. As a result, there are many WWII related attractions, which history buffs will particularly be interested in. The World War II Museum and Art Gallery is a must-see, as well as the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and JEATH War Museum. The hike through Hellfire pass is well worth taking in too and, of course, the well-known Bridge Over The River Kwai.
Regardless of what you’re looking for, whether it be swimming, sightseeing, hiking, engaging with wildlife, beautiful Buddhist temples or taking in the history of WWII, the Kanchanaburi region is a diverse and exciting place to visit. It can be reached easily from Bangkok, and day trips are possible from here as well. However, we recommend staying in the area as there are some beautiful properties, such as the unique Jungle Rafts and the luxury tents at the Hintok River Camp. Chat to our consultants to work a visit to Kanchanaburi into your next Thailand holiday.
Thailand
Family Adventure by Train
Take a little extra time to travel Thailand by train as you explore its cities, countryside, and beaches on this unforgettable family holiday.
Highlights
Bangkok
Roll up your sleeves and make tasty Thai puddings in a hidden garden restaurant hidden amongst the canals
Kanchanaburi
Wake up in a luxury floating bungalow on the River Kwai
Khao Sok National Park
Stay in a treehouse and explore the jungle after dark on a night safari
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Thailand
Countryside, Rivers & Reef by Train
An overland exploration of North and Central Thailand. Snake through rural communities by rail, stay in riverside lodges in jungles, and relax on pristine beaches.
Highlights
Phrae
Snake through the northern hills towards Phrae Muang Pi Forest Park
Bangkok
Going behind the scenes on Bangkok’s backstreets, including a cooking class in a hidden garden restaurant
Koh Kood
Relaxing on the tropical jungle island, close to the Cambodian border
Thailand
Classic Family Thailand Adventure
A little bit of everything in ‘The Land of Smiles’: from Bangkok’s sizzling street food and countryside cycles to off-the-beaten-track idyllic beaches of warm water and golden sands.
Highlights
Bangkok
Sample sizzling street food with a fun foodie guide
Chiang Mai
Meet free-roaming elephants and learn about how they’re protected
Koh Yao Noi
Glorious beach time on an unspoilt island with great snorkelling
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