Kanchanaburi: the River Kwai bridge and Erawan Falls

A wartime railway and turquoise waterfall pools in the jungle.

Area

Day trips

Start from

Bangkok

Distance

about 130 km

Time needed

1–2 days

Best season

November – February

Difficulty

Moderate

Transport

Train, bus or tour

Tickets & rules

Park fee at Erawan

Why go

Kanchanaburi is known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway built during the Second World War. The nearby Erawan National Park has a seven-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools.

It's a mix of history and nature.

In town, the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Thailand–Burma Railway Centre and the JEATH War Museum tell the story of the railway. Hellfire Pass, further away, is a moving memorial.

Erawan's turquoise pools are perfect for swimming, and the hike through the forest to the top tier is beautiful.

The story

The Death Railway was built by prisoners of war and Asian labourers in 1942–43, many of whom died.

Erawan Falls is named after the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology.

The railway was built to supply Japanese forces in Burma. Many prisoners of war and Asian labourers died during construction.

The bridge you see today was rebuilt after the war.

Getting there

Take a train or bus from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.

Buses and tours go to Erawan National Park.

A suggested plan

1. Day 1Bridge, war cemetery and museums.
2. Day 2Erawan Falls.

Where to stay

Riverside guesthouses in Kanchanaburi.

Good to know

• Bring swimwear for Erawan.
• Start early to avoid crowds.
• Take a ride on the railway along the river.
• Bring water shoes for Erawan.