KANCHANABURI
ABOUT KANCHANABURI
Kanchanaburi is a town in west Thailand and while it’s tempting to dramatise Kanchanaburi’s World War II history, there is in fact so much more to the city than the popular trios: Death Railway, Bridge over the River Kwae (Kwai) and the Allied War Cemetery.
The city offers a range of delightful diversions, whether bamboo rafting journeys along the River Kwai, Khmer temple ruins tour, or a day out shopping at the gemstone village. The scenic riverside area sets the stage for a leisurely stroll but can also become loud at night due to music from karaoke bars and discos.
Although Kanchanaburi is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is November to March, when temperatures are relatively cooler than the rest of the year. In the peak of summer (April), Kanchanaburi is one of the hottest places to be, so it’s best to avoid going during that time.
WHEN TO VISIT
Kanchanaburi has a hot tropical climate with three distinct seasons; the humid and intense hot season, the west monsoon season and the cooler winter months. The ideal months for visiting are between November through to March. These months are ideal for visiting the majority of Thailand. November is when the monsoon rains finish and March is when the humidity starts to increase making sightseeing difficult.
WHAT IS IT FAMOUS FOR?
Kanchanaburi is famous for the Death Railway, built during WWII. The line crosses over the River Khwae Yai via the Death Railway Bridge. Displays at the JEATH War Museum honour the prisoners of war who died building the bridge. The Thailand–Burma Railway Centre explores the wider history of the railway. Nearby, thousands of Allied soldiers are buried at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.