Monday, July 28, 2008

The Bridge on the River Kwai


Although the movie of the same name is highly inaccurate in it's facts, there's no question the horror that the prisoners of war had to endure during construction of two bridges.

All over Kanchanaburi are testaments to the suffering of the labourers who were forced to work under appalling, inhumane conditions.

An estimated 16,000 war prisoners and over 100,000 local labourers died between 1942-1943.


Around the promenade by the bridge are numerous market stalls selling the usual souvenirs, t-shirts, collectables etc. and you can find many bargains.

The celebrated war cemeteries and war museums in town are beautifully kept and maintained and help keep Kanchanaburi in the minds of historians from all over the world!

Light & Sound Show
Each year in November is the "Kanchanaburi Light & Sound Show", which replays the events leading to the destruction of the bridge using impressive lasers, fireworks and sounds!

This event brings in thousands of visitors and is quite spectacular! River boats and floating restaurants cruise up and down the famous old waterway offering excellent views of the show and some superb photo opportunities!

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