Saturday, November 8, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park

Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park

Covering over 500 sq.km, Erawan National Park is surrounded by stunning scenery and houses the famous Erawan waterfall. The park is covered with 75% forest and if you're lucky you might just catch a glimpse of an elephant, wild monkey or even an eagle!

If you're unlucky you might come across one of our king cobras or pythons!


The whole area around the park is highlighted by some beautifully decorated pavilions which house gift shops, cafes and restaurants.

You can tour around the park in your own car but the best way to see the whole grounds is to take one of the park's own buses.

The driver will take you through each section, giving you excellent photo opportunities as well as getting "up close and personal" with several animals, most notably the giraffes who will "invade" the bus for some food...great fun!


Bowls of food to feed the animals can be bought from the main entrance for just a few Baht.

At the centre of the park is the central pavilion restaurant and show arena.

The restaurant itself sits overlooking a lake and is a good spot for a cold drink before heading off to see one of the many daily animal shows.

Visit: www.kanchanaburisafaripark.com

Kanchanaburi - Muang Sing Historical Park

Kanchanaburi - Muang Sing Historical Park

Close to Sai Yok Noi waterfall, Muang Singh Historical Park covers two areas, Sai Yok Noi (Small) and Sai Yok Yai (Big). The park features the remains of two Khmer temples dating back to the 13th century.

Muang Singh - the "Lion City" was declared a historical park in 1987 and has become one of Kanchanaburi's more popular attractions.

Muang Sing dates back to time of King Rama I (1782-1809), built as an integral part of his defences against the invading Burmese army.

Covering an area of over 700,000 sq.m, the southern wall runs parallel with the River Kwai.

The main temple is at the centre of the park, next to the remains of the second ruin, with the lesser monuments are scattered around.

The style of the temples, known as "Bayon" style, are in honour of ancient Khmer Kingdom during the 12th century reign of King Jayavarman. An inscription on one of the stones depicts Prince Kumara and his father naming over 20 cities.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Sangkhlaburi District

Kanchanaburi - Sangkhlaburi District

Directly bordering Myanmar (Burma), Sangkhlaburi district is in the far north-west corner of Kanchanaburi Province.
Home of the famous Three Pagodas Pass, the area has a strong Burmese cultural influence!

Sangkhlaburi has played an important role in the history between Thailand and Burma and also has the longest wooden bridge in the country!

Three Pagodas Pass

Known as "Phra Chedi Sam Ong" in Thai, Three Pagodas Pass links Sangkhlaburi on the Thai side with Pyathonzu just over the border into Myanmar (Burma).

Over the course of history, the pass has been the route into Thailand for invading Burmese armies as well as traders and Buddhist Monks from India.

The three pagodas themselves, believed to have been built in the 4th century, are fairly small but hold great sway with the locals as peace symbols.

During World War II, the infamous Death Railway was built through the pass by the allied prisoners of war.

Several hill tribes live in the area including the Karen, Mon and Burmese, who are neither Thai or Burmese nationals.

There have been several confrontations between the Karen and the Mon tribes for control over the years, but now the Myanmar authorities remain in control of the border region.

Visitors are allowed to visit the Burmese border town of Pyathonzu with a special one-day pass, issued at the border.

Great items can be bought for souvenirs including wooden carvings, ornaments, jade and textiles.

Kanchanaburi - Huai Khamin Waterfall

Kanchanaburi - Huai Khamin Waterfall

Arguabley the most spectacular waterfall in Thailand! Although only reachable by four-wheeled drive or boat from Sri Nakarin Dam, it's certainly worth the extra effort! The water tumbles into Sri Nakarin Lake and has deep pools, excellent for swimming.

The edges of the falls are dense jungle where you can often spot wild elephants, tigers and deer.

Memorial Park

To honour the Princess Mother's 90th birthday in Oct. 1990, the large park area is surrounded by decorative sculptures and has a giant spring at the entrance.

You can get a spectacular view of the dam from all around the park. In total, the park covers over 1,500 sq. km, made up of of limestone hills, forest and the lake.

Regular boats cruise up and down the lake between the Memorial Park and the waterfalls.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Bars & Pubs

6Kanchanaburi - Bars & Pubs

Kanchanaburi has numerous places to get a "cold one" or two! There are (too) many small shop-front bars along the River Kwai Road, most of which disappear quicklly. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the more established places around offer good compnay, plenty of stories and more often than not satellite TV.

See below details of recommended bars & pubs...

Bar & Pub Owners - Add Your Listing Here

Recommended Bars & Pubs

Red Kangaroo / Four 9's - Sang Chuto Road
Opposite River Kwai Hotel in the heart of town. Air-Con bar with satellite TV, cold beer and some great stories!

Rascals - River Kwai Road
Come join the fun at Rascals. Top food, proper UK nosh, all sports events, great tunes, great crack - Say no more!

No Name Bar - River Kwai Road
Get Shit-Faced On A Shoestring' they say. Breakfast, pies, burgers, chips, Thai food, cold beer, cool cocktails, wine, pool table & big screen TV. Relax & Enjoy!

Fine Thanks Beer Garden - River Promenade
Very popular spot, at the end of the "River Promenade", a large outdoor beer garden.

Spread Eagle - River Kwai Road
Traditional Thai bar-beer with sofas and chairs and good company!!

Bar & Pub Owners - Add Your Listing Here

Kanchanaburi - National Parks

Kanchanaburi - National Parks

Kanchanaburi Province is blessed with some specatacular National Parks and nature reserves, highlighting the rugged, natural beauty of the landscape. Getting "back to nature" is easy in Kanchanaburi, with natural spring pools for swimming, walking routes and some very interesting wildlife.

Some of the waterfalls within the parks are among the best anywhere in Asia.

Sai Yok National Park - click here

Erawan National Park - click here

Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park - Nong Prue District

Known locally as "Tham Than Lot", the relatively small park (54 sq.km) is a nature lovers delight! Forest, waterfalls and several caves are ready to be explored and there is a 2.5 km nature trail which follows the stream through Than Lat Yai and Than Lot Noi caves.

Regular buses from Kanchanaburi town take about 2 hours to arrive in Nong Plue District. From the bus station in Nong Plue, taxis can take you to the park entrance.

Sri Nakarin Dam

In Si Sawat District, close to Erawan National Park, this impressive hydro-electric power plant sits on the River Kwai. On the top level of the site is the lake, an excellent spot to fish or just relax.

Srinagarindra National Park - Si Sawat District

Just a short distance further north from Erawan National Park, Srinagarindra National Park covers over 1,500 sq.km. getting to the park is not that easy, as the last 40km is over a mud road which can only be taken by motorbike or 4x4. The best way to get to the park is by a chartered boat from Tha Kradan Pier.

All the hassle of getting to the park are worth it once you get here! The main highlight is Huai Mae Khamin Waterfall, but also worthwhile are boat trips on the reservoir which offer some spectacular views and not forgetting a trek through the forest and bamboo groves.

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Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Clubs

Kanchanaburi - Clubs

Kanchanaburi has a few clubs/discos if you feel the need to dance! Mainly centred around the River Promenade, the latest dance tunes can be heard pumping out along the river. As well as the more high-tech clubs, there are a few live music venues dotted around, mainly featuring cover bands and local musicians.

See below details of recommended clubs...

Club Owners - Add Your Listing Here

Recommended Clubs

Glitzy Disco - River Kwai Hotel
Attached to the River Kwai Hotel, very popular local night spot with all the latest dance tunes. Just outside is the beer garden when you need a bit of fresh air!

Discovery Night Club - River Promenade
Probably the best known club in the area. Discovery is a modern dance club with different themed nights every day of the week. Weekends especially can be full-on!

Guitar House - River Promenade
Live music place along the "River Promenade".

Club Owners - Add Your Listing Here

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Kanchanaburi - Shopping

Kanchanaburi - Shopping

Kanchanaburi is a great place to pick up a few bargains, certainly a lot cheaper than shopping in Bangkok! In town there are several department stores which have all the usual, everyday bits you need, plus there are specialist shops selling local products.

At the railway and bus stations there are superb night markets selling just about everything at ridiculously low prices - depending on your bargaining skills...!!!

Kanchanaburi - Shopping

Birdland Books - River Kwai Road
Kanchanaburi's largest used book stores! In the heart of the tourist area books available in numerous languages. Also has a shop in Sangkhlaburi.

Night Market - Kanchanaburi Railway Station
Clothes, shoes, collectables, souvenirs, DVD's, CD's. Just about anything you want you will find it here!

Night Market - Kanchanaburi Bus Station
Clothes, shoes, collectables, souvenirs, DVD's, CD's etc. etc. (see above)

Kan Superstore - Kanchanaburi Town Centre
Standard department store with all the usual items plus a decent supermarket.

Tesco Lotus - Sang Chuto Road (By taxi - 10 mins)
Large megastore, an all-in-one shoppers paradise. Includes a KFC, Dunkin Donuts, Dairy Queen and Swensens Ice Cream!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Tours

Kanchanaburi - Tours

Kanchanaburi is more than just "The Bridge". Sightseeing tours around the province can offer you the chance to discover the "hidden" Kanchanaburi. Along with a large variety of tours and sightseeing excursions, there are also golfing tours and other sports & activities.

Please see below for recommended tour operators.

Kanchanaburi - Recommended Tour Operators

Good Times Travel - Discover Kanchanaburi...!
We are proud to announce that The Kanchanaburi Guide has teamed up with Good Times Travel, one of Kanchanaburi's oldest and most respected agencies. Guided sightseeing tours, tailored to your your own individual requirements...(Website)

Toi's Tours - Discover Kanchanaburi...!
We are proud to add Toi's Tours to the Kanchanaburi Network. A Thai / European company, Tois Tours offers great programs, sightseeing and guided tours all over the province...(Website)

Golfing Tours - Tee-Off over the River Kwai...!
Our partnership with Easy Golf Thailand has been very successful and continues to grow. Discover some of Asia's finest golf courses whatever your level of experience and even combine sightseeing tours from Bangkok with a few rounds of golf!...(Website)

Sai Yok Noi WaterFall Kanchanaburi

Sai Yok Noi

This waterfall is at the end of the "Death Railway" line, terminating at Nam Tok station.

The countryside and the landscape are among one of the most beautiful places in the province and in the shade of the trees, temperatures are comfortable!

While taking in the surroundings you can enjoy some excellent food from one of the small restaurants which surround the park area.


The entrance to the main park features displays of original photographs depicting scenes of the construction and then susequent bombing of the railway.

There are several areas where the railay used to run through with memorial plaques, old photgraphs and even a couple of old locomotive engines which you can climb.

The best time for a visit is in the rainy season when the water levels rise and you can swim in the pools, but even during the hot seasons a day trip is highly recommended.

There is local bus service from town every half an hour from 6.45 a.m. - 6.00 pm, the trip takes about 2 hours.

Sai Yok Yai

Flows directly into the River Kwai, the natural beauty of the area has been celebrated in Thai literature and is one of the most famous waterfalls in Asia.

The best known caves, Tham Lawa & Tham Daowadung have impressive stalactites and stalagmites, plus if you have good eyes you might catch a glimpse of the world's smallest mammal, the hog-nosed bat which, when fully grown, reaches a weight of just two grams!

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Monday, November 3, 2008

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, co-sponsored by the Australian and Thai governments, is located on the site of the cutting and has superb interactive displays telling the story of the construction.

Visitors can walk down the valley and see the actual cutting of Hellfire Pass. Although the tracks have long since disappeared, the route of the cutting can be clearly seen.




Every year there is a ceremony at the pass to remember those who suffered, primarily aimed at the Australian POW's.

In 1992 a time capsule was buried by surviving ex-POW's and will be opened after 50 years!

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Ban Kao National Museum

Ban Kao National Museum This national museum is located 35 km from Kanchanaburi town it also overlooks the Kwai Noi River. The museum was constructed beside a Neolithic burial site discovered by an Allied Prisoner Of War during the construction of the Death Railway. About 4,000 years ago Neolithic man lived, roamed and hunted there beside the Kwai River, sheltering beneath rock overhangs or in nearby caves. The Baan Kao museum houses skeleton remains, pots, axe heads, jewellery made from animal bones and other artefact dating from that time.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Admission fee: 20 Baht
info The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Friday, October 31, 2008

KANCHANABURI (RIVER KWAI) - BUS SERVICE


DESTINATIONS
(Air Con.)
BUS No. FARE
(Baht)
DISTANCE
(km.)
Time
(hour)
Departure time
Bangkok 1st Class
(40 Seats)
9981 122 149 3 Kanchanaburi - Bangkok
04.00 - 19.00
Bangkok - Kanchanaburi
05.30 - 22.30
Departure every 20 mins / Take 2 hours
Bangkok 2nd Class
(47 Seats)
9918 95 149 3 Kanchanaburi - Bangkok
03.50 - 18.50
Bangkok - Kanchanaburi
05.10 - 21.30
Departure every 20 mins / Take 2 hours
Sangkhlaburi
(V.I.P. Bus)
8203 121 220 Kanchanaburi - Sangkhlaburi
Dep. 09.30, 13.30, 15.30
Sangkhlaburi - Kanchanaburi
Dep. 08.45, 10.45, 14.30
Sangkhlaburi
(Aircon. Van)
8203 100 220 Kanchanaburi - Sangkhlaburi
Dep. 07.30, 11.30, 16.30
Sangkhlaburi - Kanchanaburi
Dep. 06.30, 07.30, 11.30 13.30, 15.30
DESTINATION
(Non-Air Con.)
BUS No. FARE
(Baht)
DISTANCE
(km)
Departure Time
Bangkok 81 42 129 From 04.00 - 18.30
(Every 15 mins/Takes 3.5 Hrs.)
Nakhon Tathom 81 25 67 From 03.00 - 18.30
(Every 15 mins/Takes 1.5 Hrs.)
Ratchaburi 461 31 100 From 05.10 - 18.20
(Every 15 mins/Takes 2.0 Hrs.)
Suphanburi 411 30 98 From 05.00 - 17.45
(Every 20 mins/Takes 1.5 Hrs.)
Bo Ploy 325 18 50 From 06.00 - 18.30
(Every 25 mins/Takes 1.0 Hr.)
Tham Than Lod 325 28 97 From 06.15 - 18.30
(Every 20 mins/Takes 2.0 Hrs.)
Bus stop at "BAAN NONG PRU" and takes MINI-BUS to the cave
Erawan Waterfall 8170 25 65 Kanchanaburi - Erawan
From 08.00 - 17.20 (Every 50 mins/Takes 1.5 Hrs.)
Last bus back at 16.00
Sai Yok Noi Waterfall 8203 23 60 Kanchanaburi - Sai Yok Noi
From 06.00 - 18.30 (Every 30 mins/Takes 1 Hr.)
Last bus back at 17.00
Sai Yok Yai Waterfall 8203 35 104 Kanchanaburi - Sai Yok Yai
From 06.00 - 18.30 (Every 30 mins/Takes 2 Hrs.)
Last bus back at 16.30
Thong Phaphoom 8203 50 147 Kanchanaburi - Thong Phapoom
From 06.00 - 18.30 (Every 30 mins/Takes 3 Hrs.)
Last bus back at 16.00
Sangkhlaburi
(Take 5 hours)
8203 80 220 Kanchanaburi - Sangkhlaburi
Dep. 06.00, 08.40, 10.20, 12.00
Sangkhlaburi - Kanchanaburi
Wat Tham
Mung Korn Thong
8191 5 7 Kanchanaburi - Dan Makham Tia
From 08.30 - 17.30
Dan Makham Tia - Kanchanaburi
From 07.00 - 04.00
Every 30 mins/Takes20 mins (Get off on the way)
War Cemetary
River Kwai Bridge
Orange
Mini-Bus
No.2
5 5 Take from the second traffic light
in front of the "FOCUS OPTIC" shop
From 06.00 - 19.00
Every 20 mins/Takes 10 mins

++ Note ++

Wat Kao Pun & Kao Pun Cave

Ban Kao National Museum The Kao Pun Wat and the cave are located about 5 km from town at highway 3228. Some boat tours stop there for a visit. Inside the cave are several Hindu and Buddha images in some rooms. Behind the temple on the way to the river is a big Buddha located from where you can have a fantastic view of the river valley.

Jeath Museum

Jeath MuseumThe museum was built by a monk of Wat Chai Chumpol in the form of a replica of Allied POW's quarters in a Death Railway detention camp - a long bamboo hut with earthen floor, like a henhouse. Raised narrow bamboo bunks lining the two walls, serving as the living space.
JEATH is the acronym of the nations involved in the Death Railway construction, namely :
Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland.

On the walls are enlarged reproductions of photos taken during the railway construction and also paintings of the atrocities inflicted on the POW's. There are also collections of World war II Artifacts found in the area, including the blown-out shell of the bomb that was supposed to have downed the Bridge Over the River Kwai.

Kanchanaburi Monkey School

Kanchanaburi Monkey School The Kanchanaburi Monkey School trains 17 monkeys and 1 gibbon. All of the monkeys have been rescued - some were found in poor health conditions. Now they get trained to harvest coconut, dive, play basketball. Just to name few of their skills. Monkey School is located on the way to Khao Pun Cave on highway 3228 and turn left at the level crossing.

Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Admission fee: 150 THB

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Thai-Burmese Railway Centre

Thai-Burmese Railway Centre The TBRC is an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. The Death Railway runs once 415 km from Ban Pong (Thailand) to Thanbuyuzayat (Burma). The museum is located next to the Don-Rak War Cemetery.

Opening hours: daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission fee: 60 Baht

War Museum at the Bridge

War Museum at the Bridge The private sector Museum that collects lots of World War II Stories, such as war instruments, photographs, uniforms, etc. It is located on the bank of Kwai River nearby the Bridge on the River Kwai. Inside the building is also an Art Gallery on 2nd and 3rd floor. The paintings on the second floor relate ancient battles between the Thais and Burmese, while third-floor murals tell Thai history and provide portraits of prime ministers and other important political figures. This private museum also features Khmer-style woodcarvings, a pair of elaborate Burmese Buddhas, and excellent paintings of Chinese deities.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Don-Rak War Cemetery

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak)This War Cemetery is also known as the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. It is located opposite Kanchanaburi's Railway Station on Saengchootoe Road. It contains the remains of 6,982 Australian, Dutch and British war prisoners who lost their lives during the construction of the Death Railway.

The River Kwai...

Kanchanaburi - Us riding an elephant!

Kanchanaburi - Us riding an elephant!
Us riding an elephant!
Wow...we only chose to go to the River Kwai as a last minute decision when booking our honeymoon holiday...I'm glad that we did! We didn't actually stay in Kanchanaburi, we were about 70 kms north on the River Kwai...in a great 'resort' there. We got to ride an elephant, pat tigers, bamboo raft down the river etc...very nice! :)

Bridge Over River Kwai and Train Ride

Kanchanaburi is 129 kilometers west of Bangkok. A mountainous provice, it is the origin of Kwai Noi River and the Kwai Yai River.
This tour take you to the world's renowned Bridge on The River Kwai, was construction during World War II by prisoners of war in 1942. About 10,000 allied soldiers lost their life from huger, deseases, hard labor that the name Death Railway was given to it, The JEATH War Museum where you can see the many historic exhibits and War Cemetery which became the resting place for 6,982 Allied prisoners.

Kanchanaburi Sight-Seeing




Kanchanaburi is 129 kilometers west of Bangkok.A mountainous province,
The world's renowned Bridge over the River Kwai.
The Death Railway was a strategic raily built between Thailand and Burma.It was 415 kms long (303 kms- in Thailand and 112 kms in Burma) and passed through the Three Pagoda pass in Sangkhlaburi District.
Construction was began on September 16,1942 at Nong Pladuk,Thailand by approximately 30,000 prisoners of war from the afore mentioned countries and more than 200,000 labourers from India,China,Indonesia,Malaysia, Singapore,Burma and Thailand.of these,more than 16,000 PoW's and 100,000 labourers died of many diseases, due to stravation and lack of medical equipment.That the name "Death Railway"was given to it.
It is said that the frist survey by the Japanese engineers predicted that it would take at least five years to finish this railway,but the Japanese Army forced the prisoners to complete it in only sixteen months.Thus it was completed on 25 December 1943.
Don't miss to visit Tiger Temple or Wat Luangta Bua,where is the new home all animals.The buddist monk feed them,especailly the tiger,freely one a day and can be petting by tourist.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Ram Yoei or dance Yoei

It is a kind of folk music play more than 500 years. This dance is always during Songkran and New Year holidays. There are male and female players is the form of a circle. The player has a turn to sing their own verses are accompanied by his players who clap their hands in rhythm. Some players take turn to dance with music from the long-drum band. Male players wear round neckshirt with loincloth on the shoulder. Female players dress in costume with Thai Sabai cloth tied around the upper part of the body. The piece is now increasingly popular in Panom Thuan district.

Friday, August 15, 2008

River Kwai bridge week

This is an annual event in the province of Kanchanaburi office from late November to early December to commemorate the famous introduction of the death penalty for the railway and bridge over the River Kwai during the Second World War. Activities at the fair includes historical and archaeological exhibitions, folk shows, in government offices, the sale of products, entertainment and light and sound presentation.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

The ban Nong Khao Fair

Rates are usually during the Songkran festival in April in Intharam Wat. Tambon Nong Khao. Activities to promote the culture and traditions of the local villagers are pieces of sweet, cloth weaving, games, play, performances, bull races, a beauty queen competition, as well as various forms of entertainment.

Boat and Raft Festival

From boats and rafts festival
The river tower Kanchnaburi is famous and popular among visitors. Boat races and water sports games are taking place in this annual festival in early November in the area of Khun Phan Dam.

Friday, August 8, 2008

SAI YOK ELEPHANT VILLAGE IN SAI YOK DISTRICT

Located at 3 MU ban on day Phueng, Tambon Today, the amount and offers 30 minutes character based on elephants and rafting. Every day during the elephant show at 8.30 - 4.00 am to get there from Kanchanaburi take Sai Yok - Thong Pha Phum road for about 30 minutes at about km. 45, or train and fell Van Tel.

PILOK mine Thong Pha Phum district

Pilok mine is located in Tambon Pilok about 70 km. in waters west of Amphoe Thong Pha Phum along the 3272nd Previously, there were mines tin and tungsten in the Range Tanao If a Thai forms a natural border between the country and Myanmar. On the way, visitors can stop "Pilok Hill, about 32 km. Of Thong Pha Phum where fruits and ornamental plants of the area to be moderate. There are many scenic waterfalls nearby, on foot as Namtok Chokkadin and Chet Namtok MIT. Visitors should be careful, because most roads are winding and steep.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

MINERAL WATER AND WATERFALL BATHING DAY IN THONG PHA PHUM DISTRICT

Leadership in Hin Dat Hot Spring, Mu 5, Tambon Hin Dat, Amphoe Thong Pha Phum beginning of November. In the festival, there are residues in agricultural products and tourism exhibition Amphoe Thong Pha Phum. The tourists have the chance to swim in Hin Dat Hot Spring and enjoy the beautiful view from Namtok Pha Tat.

RIVER KWAE BRIDGE WEEK NEAR KANCHANABURI TOWN

http://www2.tat.or.th/tat_branch/upload/pos/52_469/p0021.jpg
Each year, at the end or early November December, the world's most famous was the subject of celebrations. Highlights include exhibitions and historical and archaeological displays, with the margin of carnival, roundabouts, popular entertainment and cultural events; drive trains pulled by a World War II vintage steam locomotives, one night, light and sound re-enacting the bridge presentation of the World War II, history, including a bombardment of the Allies.

Kanchanaburi Historie

According to most historians, the ancient city of Kanchanaburi near the Prohibition Lat Ya, a small village which lies about 16 miles north of the city. This page has been repeatedly found in Thai history as an invasion route as the Burmese used to enter the Thai kingdom.

Kanchanaburi, which has most of the surface, an area of approximately 19,473 square kilometres and is the third largest province in Thailand after Chiang Mai and Norwich. Located about 129 kilometers west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi shares a border with Burma, in the west, please, and Uthai Thani province in the north, Suphan Buri and Pilsen provinces in the east, and Stockport province in the south.

In the north and west of Kanchanaburi, the terrain is composed primarily of high mountains and plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acts as a natural border between Thailand and Burma. The row is a source of Kanchanaburi and its two main rivers Maenam Khwae Noi and Maenam Khwae Yai, which are famous Maenam Mae Klong. As a result, a number of Thailand's largest Namtok (falls) and the largest wildlife sanctuaries exist in this area.
The magical and enchanting beauty of the landscape Kanchanaburi have resulted in the main tourist attractions, including several well-known waterfalls, caves, which were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, quiet river, virgin forests, and the reservoir. Together they offer a great experience for the first time or repeat visitors. Whether its fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-looking, star-zírající, golf, elephant and jungle trekking, or even living in bamboo rafts, Kanchanaburi takes pride to offer to all.
The city of Kanchanaburi is located at the point where two tributaries, the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai meet and form the Mae Klong Maenam. This is the place where the death railway and the famous bridge over the Khwae one of the world famous World War II sites, which have been immortalized in print and film.
In economic terms, Kanchanaburi done well at national level, with more than 10 percent growth annually. Principal industries include sugar, agricultural products and jewellery. Tourism is also an important source of income for the local population as a province of high tourism potential has made Kanchanaburi number one among the western provinces with the highest number of visitors each year.

Residents of Kanchanaburi are involved in agriculture. Most of the local population is the Thai ancestors with remarkable MON and Karen minorities. Rural dwellers enjoy living simply and respect for nature. In addition, folk music and dance goes back at least 500 years old is still today.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Visit To Kanchanburi Thailand

Visitors can go between them and their photographs. Tigre as the night the animals are a bit sleepy and melancholy about the sun. Visitors may not have heard of this city, but it is likely that they are aware of the nearby bridge over the River Kwai. Most itself is modest and sometimes used by local trains. Visitors can drive their private car to explore the park or use the bus services provided by the park. Open daily from 9 in the morning

Monday, August 4, 2008

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi north stretches the width of the river and is a popular place for travellers, its position on the edge of a mountain range that it considers much cooler than in other central Thai provinces of the country. The city has two major commercial districts: Center consists of a group of several streets with office buildings, shops, a shopping mall, the beach and businesses are mainly located further west along the River Kwai Road. Kanchanaburi is a place that has organized something for all types of travellers. With many museums, historic park, death and war graves railway sites, the city is easy to attract applicants. Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is just a short distance from the site of the former

Kanchanaburi - History


"Muang" Kanchanaburi is the capital of Kanchanaburi Province, located where the River Kwai Noi and River Kwai Yai merge to form the Maeklong (Mekong). An ancient Thai civilisation, Kanchanaburi is best know for it's more recent history when, during World War II the Japanese Imperial Army began construction of the infamous
"Death Railway" which included the Bridge Over The River Kwai.
In total, over 100,000 POW's lost their lives building the railway, tunnels and the famous bridge.

The Birth of Kanchanaburi

A relatively modern province, the origins of Kanchanaburi can be traced back to the reign of King Rama I, who established the area as a defence against the invading Burmese in the late 18th century. The Thais and Burmese have a long history of cross-border troubles and Three Pagodas Pass in Sangkhlaburi district is still used today as a smuggling route!

Over the next century, Thailand as a nation became the economic power of S.E.Asia, due in large part to the creation of small towns such as Kanchanaburi, complimenting the established Kingdoms of Ayutthaya, Sukothai and of course Bangkok.

The Thai-Burma "Death Railway"

Whilst Asia remained largely unaffected during World War I, the rise of the Japanese empire during the 1940's plunged Thailand into a period of history for which Kanchanaburi was to play the central role.

Having effectively occupied the Malay Peninsula, the Japanese Imperial Army started construction of the infamous Thai-Burma "Death Railway", which was needed to help carry supplies to Japanese soldiers in Burma.

The project was started in Ban Pong in neighbouring Ratchaburi Province, branching off from the existing railway tracks and heading through Kanchanaburi into Burma via Three Pagodas Pass.

However, the major stumbling block was to be how to cross over the River Kwai, hence the decision to create the now famous bridge. Over 100,000 POW's would ultimately lose their lives building the railway, forced to work under horrific conditions with many of them buried where they fell!

There are monuments, museums and cemeteries all around the region comemorating the events of 1942-1943 and the "Death Railway" has become the iconic legacy of Kanchanaburi.

Even Hollywood has got in on the act, with a couple of high profile films telling the story. The highly inaccurate portrayal by Alec Guinness and his chums in "The Bridge on the River Kwai" as well as the more recent "To End All Wars" which tells the story of a young POW forced to work along the railway. The latter is far nearer the truth!

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Geography

"Muang" Kanchanaburi is the capital of Kanchanaburi Province, located where the River Kwai Noi and River Kwai Yai merge to form the Maeklong (Mekong).

Blessed with a spectacular natural landscape, several National Parks are located in the forests of the mountain area of the province - the Erawan, Sai Yok, Khao Laem, Khaoen Sri Nakarin and Chaloem Rattanakosin National Parks are located in the province.


Just over 150km west of bangkok, the province shares borders with Burma (West), and the provinces of Tak (North), Uthai Thani, Suphanburi, Nakhon Pathom (East) and Ratchaburi (South).

The main road through Kanchanaburi, "Thanon Saeng Chuto", runs the length of town from north to south, connecting the River Kwai Bridge, the train station and the bus station.

Kanchanaburi is the 3rd largest of Thailand's 76 provinces (19,483 s.km), just behind Nakhon Ratchasima and Chiang Mai, however has a population of only around 750,000.

Kanchanaburi - Safari Park

Just 40 km from town on the way to Bo Phloi, the Safari Park is a man-made habitat for sevral African & Asian animals - lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras and bears. The landscaping is beautifully designed and offers great insights into the habits of the animals.

Kanchanaburi Safari Park
Open daily: 9.00am - 6.00pm
Entry Fee: Adults 120 Th.Baht - Children 30 Th.Baht


The whole area around the park is highlighted by some beautifully decorated pavilions which house gift shops, cafes and restaurants.

You can tour around the park in your own car but the best way to see the whole grounds is to take one of the park's own buses.

The driver will take you through each section, giving you excellent photo opportunities as well as getting "up close and personal" with several animals, most notably the giraffes who will "invade" the bus for some food...great fun!


Bowls of food to feed the animals can be bought from the main entrance for just a few Baht.

At the centre of the park is the central pavilion restaurant and show arena.

The restaurant itself sits overlooking a lake and is a good spot for a cold drink before heading off to see one of the many daily animal shows.



Visit: www.kanchanaburisafaripark.com

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, co-sponsored by the Australian and Thai governments, is located on the site of the cutting and has superb interactive displays telling the story of the construction.

Visitors can walk down the valley and see the actual cutting of Hellfire Pass. Although the tracks have long since disappeared, the route of the cutting can be clearly seen.




Every year there is a ceremony at the pass to remember those who suffered, primarily aimed at the Australian POW's.

In 1992 a time capsule was buried by surviving ex-POW's and will be opened after 50 years!

Kanchanaburi - Muang Sing Historical Park

In the near Sai Yok Noi waterfall, Muang Singh Historical Park consists of two areas, Sai Yok Noi (Small) and Sai Yok Yai (Big). Park offers the remains of two Khmer temples of 13 tennis.

Muang Singh - the "Lion City" was declared a historical park in 1987 and has become one of Kanchanaburi's more popular attractions.

Muang Sing dates back to time of King Rama I (1782-1809), built as an integral part of his defences against the invading Burmese army.

Covering an area of over 700,000 sq.m, the southern wall runs parallel with the River Kwai.

The main temple is at the centre of the park, next to the remains of the second ruin, with the lesser monuments are scattered around.

The style of the temples, known as "Bayon" style, are in honour of ancient Khmer Kingdom during the 12th century reign of King Jayavarman. An inscription on one of the stones depicts Prince Kumara and his father naming over 20 cities.

Srinagarindra National Park - Si Sawat District

Only a short distance further north of the Erawan National Park Srinagarindra National Park covers more than 1500 sq.km. getting to the park, it is not easy, as in the last 40 km by road is mud, which may be adopted motorcycle or 4x4. The best way to get to the park is a chartered boat from Tha Kradan Pier.

All the difficulties to get to the park is worth it once you've got here! The main attraction is the Huai Mae Khamin waterfall, but also are useful beauty salon in the magazine, which offer some spectacular views and not forgetting the expedition and through the woods and bamboo groves.

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Friday, August 1, 2008

Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park - Nong Prue District

Known locally as "Tham Than Lot", the relatively small park (54 sq.km) is a nature lovers delight! Forest, waterfalls and several caves are ready to be explored and there is a 2.5 km nature trail which follows the stream through Than Lat Yai and Than Lot Noi caves.

Regular buses from Kanchanaburi town take about 2 hours to arrive in Nong Plue District. From the bus station in Nong Plue, taxis can take you to the park entrance.

Sai Yok Noi

Sai Yok Noi

This waterfall is at the end of the "Death Railway" line, terminating at Nam Tok station.

The countryside and the landscape are among one of the most beautiful places in the province and in the shade of the trees, temperatures are comfortable!

While taking in the surroundings you can enjoy some excellent food from one of the small restaurants which surround the park area.


The entrance to the main park features displays of original photographs depicting scenes of the construction and then susequent bombing of the railway.

There are several areas where the railay used to run through with memorial plaques, old photgraphs and even a couple of old locomotive engines which you can climb.

The best time for a visit is in the rainy season when the water levels rise and you can swim in the pools, but even during the hot seasons a day trip is highly recommended.

There is local bus service from town every half an hour from 6.45 a.m. - 6.00 pm, the trip takes about 2 hours.

Erawan Waterfall

Erawan Waterfall

Erawan Falls has seven levels dropping down over 1,500m and is regarded as one the more beautiful in Thailand.

You can walk to each level fairly easily on the paths but if you're aiming to get to the very top then it's a bit of a scramble up the cliff - it's worth the effort though!

You can swim in some of the pools created by the falls. Around the park are also several caves where you can explore and see some weird and wonderful limestone formations, stalagtites and stalagmites!


The best caves to see are Wang Bahdan, Pratat, Rua, and Mee which has five "rooms" to be explored!

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Sri Nakarin Dam

In Si Sawat District, close to Erawan National Park, this impressive hydro-electric power plant sits on the River Kwai. On the top level of the site is the lake, an excellent spot to fish or just relax.

Sai Yok Yai

Flows directly into the River Kwai, the natural beauty of the area has been celebrated in Thai literature and is one of the most famous waterfalls in Asia.

The best known caves, Tham Lawa & Tham Daowadung have impressive stalactites and stalagmites, plus if you have good eyes you might catch a glimpse of the world's smallest mammal, the hog-nosed bat which, when fully grown, reaches a weight of just two grams!

Three Pagodas Pass

Known as "Phra Chedi Sam Ong" in Thai, Three Pagodas Pass links Sangkhlaburi on the Thai side with Pyathonzu just over the border into Myanmar (Burma).

Over the course of history, the pass has been the route into Thailand for invading Burmese armies as well as traders and Buddhist Monks from India.

The three pagodas themselves, believed to have been built in the 4th century, are fairly small but hold great sway with the locals as peace symbols.

During World War II, the infamous Death Railway was built through the pass by the allied prisoners of war.

Several hill tribes live in the area including the Karen, Mon and Burmese, who are neither Thai or Burmese nationals.

There have been several confrontations between the Karen and the Mon tribes for control over the years, but now the Myanmar authorities remain in control of the border region.

Visitors are allowed to visit the Burmese border town of Pyathonzu with a special one-day pass, issued at the border.

Great items can be bought for souvenirs including wooden carvings, ornaments, jade and textiles.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Kanchanaburi Golf Courses

Kanchanaburi Golf Courses

Grand Garden Golf Club
Only a 20 minute drive away, this is the perfect course for less experienced golfers. Enjoy this beautiful par 72 course without any pressures!

Greenworld
Tee off across the famous River Kwai! Not just a magnificent course, also boasts hot springs, sauna, swimming pool and 5 Star Hotel!

Mission Hills Country Club
Every golfers dream course! Mission Hills is a Jack Nicklaus designed course with all the facilities you expect, including the "First Class Hotel".

Nichigo Resort & Country Club
Over 9 or 18 holes, choose to play either the Lake, River or Mountain course. The club also offers restaurant & hotel facilities.

River Kwai Golf Club
Described as "The golfer's course", the elevation has to be played to be believed! Another superb venue with restaurant & hotel facilities.

Blue Sapphire Golf Club
This relatively new course offers challenges to those who love to play over water! The club also offers a sauna, fitness center and fishing lakes!

For details of superb golfing packages, please visit our friends at River Kwai Golf

Monday, July 28, 2008

Kanchanaburi - Tiger Temple


As adult tigers fell victim to poachers, several cubs were given to the temple and so far a further several cubs have been born. There are currently more than a dozen tigers who call the temple home!

Once a day, the tigers are led on leashes to their own quarry where they can roam around, with visitors able to watch from around 10m away.

More often than not, one of the monks will bring one of the tamest tiger to be stroked by visitors*.

Donations can be made at the temple and the Monks continue to collect funds in order to build a larger sanctuary which would allow the tigers to live in a more natural habitat.

*Although the tigers appear tame, let's not forget these are still naturally wild animals. Sudden movements and too many camera flashes at one time can spook them. However in ten years there has only been one serious attack on a visitor, who survived!

Young children are not allowed near the animals and will not be allowed into the quarry where the tigers roam free!