Kanchanaburi province, which is primarily hilly terrain, encompasses an area of 7,519 sq. miles (19,473 sq. km) and is Thailand’s third-largest province after Nakhon Ratchasima or Ko-Rat and Chiang Mai in terms of population. Kanchanaburi is located about 80 miles (129 km) west of Bangkok, with Myanmar to the west, Tak and Uthai Thani Provinces to the north, Suphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom Provinces to the east, and Ratchaburi Province to the south.
Mountains and high plains dominate the landscape in north and west Kanchanaburi, with the Thanon Thongchai Range serving as a natural boundary between Thailand and Myanmar. The Maenam Khwae Noi (River Kwai Noi) and Maenam Khwae Yai (River Kwai Yai) rivers, which flow into the famed Mae Klong River, originate in this area. As a result, this region contains some of Thailand’s greatest Namtok (waterfalls) and most extensive animal sanctuaries. Kanchanaburi’s stunning landscape and appealing beauty have produced major tourist attractions including several well-known waterfalls, Neolithic caves, pristine national parks, quiet rivers, virgin forests, and a reservoir. For first-time or return visitors, they provide an intriguing experience. Kanchanaburi is proud to provide a wide range of activities, including fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, and even living in bamboo rafts.
Kanchanaburi is situated at the confluence of two streams, the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai Rivers, which form the Mae Klong river. This is the site of the infamous Death Railway as well as the Bridge on the River Kwai, one of the most renowned World War II sights immortalised in print and cinema. Kanchanaburi has been performing well economically on a national scale, with annual growth of over 10%. Sugar, agricultural products, and jewellery are all important industries. The province’s great tourism potential has made Kanchanaburi the west province with the biggest number of visitors each year, making tourism a major source of income for the residents. Agriculture is a major source of income for Kanchanaburi residents. The majority of the residents are Thai, with notable Mon and Karen minorities. Rural residents value simplicity and environmental stewardship. Folk dances and music from at least 500 years ago are still performed today. According to several historians, Kanchanaburi’s old town was located near Ban Lat Ya, a small village about 10 miles (16 km) north of the current town. The place has been mentioned several times in Thai history as an invasion route utilised by the Burmese to invade Thai kingdoms. All of these fascinating stories and facts are what draw visitors from all over the world to Kanchanaburi. The FloatHouse River Kwai is one of Kanchanaburi’s hotels where visitors may get a taste of everything. It is unquestionably a location worth seeing.
Walk or Ride on the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge)
Hellfire Pass & Memorial Museum
Hike Erawan National Park
Chungkai Cemetery
Enjoy the Quiet Khuean Srinagarindra National Park