KANCHANABURI
KANCHANABURI
The city and province of Kanchanaburi, west of Bangkok, may be the first destination in Thailand where tourism got a big boost from a Hollywood movie. The 1957 David Lean film “The Bridge on the River Kwai” had people seeking out the ‘real’ bridge featured in the movie. The problem is, the film, like the novel it’s based on, is pure fiction. There really wasn’t ever a bridge over the River Kwai.
The city and province of Kanchanaburi, west of Bangkok, may be the first destination in Thailand where tourism got a big boost from a Hollywood movie. The 1957 David Lean film “The Bridge on the River Kwai” had people seeking out the ‘real’ bridge featured in the movie. The problem is, the film, like the novel it’s based on, is pure fiction. There really wasn’t ever a bridge over the River Kwai.
Only two hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is accessible by road or rail, the latter of which includes sightseeing day trips that run on weekends and public holidays. These weekend special trains are reasonably priced and make hassle free and enjoyable adventures. Even the climate of Kanchanaburi, cooled by the altitude, forest, and rivers, is a welcome respite from the heat and congestion of the nearby capital city.
Kanchanaburi city, the capital of Kanchanaburi Province, is a popular resort town. Picturesque and worthy of a visit in its own right, it is frequently visited as base of operations for exploring the many cultural, natural, and historical attractions in the surrounding countryside. Located at the confluence of the KwaeNoi and KwaeYai rivers, Kanchanaburi lies at the source of the Mae Klong River, and these majestic bodies of water are defining characteristics of the town.
Because of its magnificent landscape and charming beauty, Kanchanaburi has become a major tourist destination, with attractions including several well-known waterfalls, caves that were once inhabited by Neolithic men, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forest, and several large reservoirs. Together, these attractions offer an intriguing experience for both first-time and repeat visitors. Whether it’s fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, or even living in a bamboo raft, Kanchanaburi takes pride in offering them all.
Best time to visit
Like most of Thailand, Kanchanaburi is best visited during the cool dry season from November to February. The rainy season can be a good time to visit, when there are fewer people and the scenery is lush and green, but it seems that many small tourist businesses close for the season, from May or June until September or October. However, hotels that do stay open all year usually offer quite attractive rates for the ‘green’ season.