INTRODUCTION OF KANCHANABURI

Kanchanaburi, which has mostly mountainous terrain, covers an area of approximately 19,483.2 square kilometers and is the third largest province in Thailand after Nakhon Ratchasima and Ching Mai. Situated approximately 129 kilometers west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi shares a borer with Myanmar to the west,Tak and Uthai Thani Provinces to the north, Suphan Buri Nakhon Pathom Provinces to the east, and Ratchaburi Province to the south.
In north and west Kanchanaburi, the terrain is comprised mainly of mountains and high plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acting as a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar. The range is the source of Kanchanaburi’s two most important rivers Kwae Noi River and Kwae Yai River, which form the famous Mae Klong River. As a result, several of Thailand’s largest waterfalls and most extensive wildlife sanctuaries are found in this area.
The magnificent landscape and charming beauty of Kanchanaburi have resulted in major tourist attractions including several well-known waterfalls, caves which were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and reservoir. Together, they offer an intriguing experience for first time or repeat visitors. Whether it’s fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, or even The city of Kanchanaburi is located at the point where two tributaries, the Kwae Noi River and Kwae Yai River meet and form the Mae Klong River. This is the location of the notorious Death Railway and the Bridge over the River Kwae-one of the world’s famous World War II sites which have been immortalized in print and film.
Residents of Kanchanaburi are engaged in agricultural activities. Most of the locals are of Thai ancestry with notable Mon and Karen minorities. Rural dwellers enjoy living simply and respecting nature.


kanchanaburi Administration comprises 13 districts (Amphoe) and the distances from Amphoe Muenge (Kanchanaburi Town) to Neighboring Districts :
Town -> Saiyok 50 km. Town -> Lao Khwan 98 km.
Town -> Thong Pha Phum 145 km. Town -> Huai Krachao 60 km.
Town -> Sangkhla Buri 215 km. Town -> Phanom Thuan 24 km.
Town -> Si Sawat 130 km. Town -> Tha Muang 13 km.
Town -> Bo Phloi 45 km. Town -> Tha Maka 30 km.
Town -> Nong Prue 75 km. Town -> Dan Makham Tia 30 km.

By car from Bangkok
Route 1: a 1.5 hour drive along Highway No.4 (Phetkasem Road) and Highway No.323 via Nakhon Chaisi Province. Nakhon Pathom Province,Ban Pong (in area of Ratchanuri Province) Tha Maka Tha Muang to Kanchanburi.
Route 2: drive along Highway No.338 from Bangkok to Nakhon Prathom Province then switch to Highway No.4 and Highway No.233 to Kanchanaburi.

TRAVELLING AROUND KANCHANABURI

Travelling around Kanchanaburi

Although the city of Kanchanaburi is possible accessible on foot, it requires strenuous efforts in completing such a trip .Normally, bicycles, motorcycles and cars are common means of transportation. All thee vehicles can be rented from shops, guesthouses and hotels located along Maenam Kwae Road. And taking boat for city tour is interesting too.
The three major routes used to explore Kanchanburi’ s attractions are Highway No.323, Highway No.3199 and Highway No.3086. Highway No.323.runs parallel to Kwae Noi River to Sangkhla Buri District (approximately 220 km. from the city) via Saiyok District, Thongphaphum District, and Vachiralongkorn Dam while Highway No.3199 Follows the Kwae Yai River to Erawan Waterfall, Sri Nakharin Dam and Hightway No.3086 to Boploi District, Than Lod Cave.
Visitors are advised to check with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Office at 034-511200 and 034-512500 or email tatkan@tat.or.th for more details.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE MUANG

Attraction in Amphoe Muang
The Bridge over the River Kwae

…The internationally famous bridge, as part of the Death Railway linking Thailand and Myanmar, During the Japanese occupation of Thailand in World War KK, the Japanese Imperial Army brought the iron bridge from Java. It was then resembled by Allied Prisoners of War (POW) under Japanese supervision. The bridge was part of a strategic railway route to Myanmar in which the Japanese aimed to secure supplies with which to conquer other western Asian countries. First, they constructed the wooden bridge and follow by the iron bridge. Both bridges were badly damaged by Allied plane attacks in 1944 and 1945, but several arches of the iron bridge stood throughout and it was repaired after the war. The bridge spans across Kwae Yai River. It’s about 5 km. the the north of town or TAT.


Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak)

...This is the place where the remains of 6,982 POWs died during the construction of the Death Railway are buried. The cemetery, which is located on Saengchuto Road, opposite the Kanchanaburi Railway Station, just 1.5 km. from the TAT office, open daily from 08.30-18.00. A memorial service is held each year on Anzac Day, 25 April.

Thailand-Burma Railway Center

…Located near Don Rak War Cemetery. The museum presents the history of Thailand-Burma Railway in WWII. From the beginning of the Japanese came the Thailand, railway construction, prisoners life, bombing and after the end of the war. Open daily from 09.00-17.00, admission fee, adult 60 baht, children (below 12years old) 30 baht. For more information call 034-510067, or visit www.tbrconline.com

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE MUANG

JEATH War Museum

…The name JEATH is derived from countries , which engaged in the WWII Death Railway construction from 1942-1945, which included Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland. Located in the area of Wat Chai Chumphon, the museum is a reconstruction of the POW’s thatched detention hut with cramped, elevated bamboo bunks. On the wall of the huts, photographs and illustrations of the POW’s living conditions are on display. The survived POW’s have donated items to the museum. Opens daily 08.30-18.00, Admission fee is 30 Baht.

Chong Kai War Cemetery

…Situated only 2 kilometers south of town on the bank of the Kwae Noi River, the cemetery occupies the site of the Chong Kai which once was the prisoner of war camp. Smaller in size, the cemetery attracts visitors to see its peaceful, well-designed landscape where 1,740 POWs rest in eternal peace, most of English prisoners. Visitors can reach by own vehicle because no public transport on this route.

Wat Tham Khao Poon

…Once a major POW camp, the temple where many Buddha images are enshrined is located in the middle cave and is surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, behind the temple is Kwae Noi River. The temple is 4 kilometers from Chongkai War Cemetery and tourists can visit the mongkey school on the way before the temple 2 kilometers.

Somdet Phra Sri Nakharin Park
Covering an area of 200 rai, the park is situated in Kanchanaburi’s Agricultural College, Tambon Nong Ya, approximately 9 kilometers from town by the same way of Wat Tham Khao Poon. Local residents also dubs the place as “the Stone Garden” as there are stones of different sizes and shapes scattered in the park.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE MUANG

Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong

…Situated about 7 kilometers from town, the splendid temple is located in a cave, which is only assessable via steps flanked by dragon carvings on both sides. The temple is well known for the incredible performance of a nun floating on the surface of a deep pool. The show do not fix time, depends on number of tourist. A small museum displaying a variety of ancient objects found in the area is located nearby. Visitors can go by own vehicle or take a bus from Kanchanaburi Bus Station to Dan Makham Tia District and get off at the temple. (look at bus timetable)

Giant Tree

…A very large Jamjuri tree that is over 100 years old about 10 people arms surrounding. Situated in the area of Veterinary and Agricultural Division 1, about 12 kilometers from town or TAT office by the route to Amphoe Dan Makham Tia, 3 kilometers from Wat Tham Mangkornthong.

Khao Chon Kai
…The Army Student Camp is located 20 kilometers from the city along Highway No.3199. Recently, the camp has opened its door for tourists wishing to enjoy activities such as tower jumping, model cliff climbing, etc. For more details, contact in advance for group tour only call 034-589237.
Ancient Town of Kanchanaburi

…Ruins of what was once Kanchanaburi community can be found at Tambon Lad Ya, which is just 20 km. from the city by the Highway No.3199 at Km.2nd – 3rd. The site was part of the battle history between the Thai and the Burmese from the Ayutthaya period to the early Rattanakosin era. Several ruins are found in Wat Pah Lelai, Wat Khun Phaen, Wat Mae Mai and Wat Nang Phim.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE MUANG

The Nine-Army Battle Historical park

…Established by the Royal Thai Army, the park is located at Tambon Chong Sadao, approximately 40 kilometers from town on Highway No.3199. It was built to commemorate the great battle under the command of King Rama I to defend the kingdom against the invasion by King Bodawpaya of Burma in 1795. Thais know this event under the name of the Nine-Army Battle. The park is a center for historical research and conservative tourism that also provides information on the great battle. A sane table displaying battlefields and diagrams depicting the battle strategy is on display. Open daily from 08.30-16.30.

Wat Tham Phu Wah Cave

…The monastery is in natural surroundings, peaceful and famous for meditation. There is a beautiful cave with plenty of stalactites. Located approximately 30 kilometers away from the provincial, 2 directions to get there. 1) Go by the same way to Stone Park. 2) Go by Highway 323, turn to the way to Bankao Museum (route 3229) and turn left to the route 3228. Continued to drive 1 kilometer visitors can reach Wat Mettadam, the Chinese temple with big wooden Kuan Yin images.

Ban Kao National Museum

…A small Tambon (sub-district) located on the bank of the Kwae Noi River approximately 35 kilometers from the city and 8 kilometers from Prasat Muang Sing. A site where some ancient Stone Age tools were found, some 4,000 years ago. In addition, a Neolithic burial site was discovered by the Dutch Allied POW, Dr.Van Hickderen who was forced to build the Death Railway. The consequences of findings revealed that Tambon Ban Kao was once a dwelling of prehistoric men. Some critical discoveries included skeletons of prehistoric men, tools made from gravel stone and axes. The Ban Kao Museum houses skeletal remains, pots, axe heads, jewelry made from animal bones, and other artifacts dating from that peiod. It’s open daily from 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is 30 baht. Call 034-654058.

Ma Dua Cave
…Situated in the area of Wat Tham Ma Dua. This large cave is beautiful with stalactites and stalagmites. There is lighting in the cave, please contact the temple before get in. It’s approximately 40 kilometers away from the city by the same way to Ban Kao Museum, go further by Highway No.3445 approximately 8 kilometers and pass Sai Yok Camp for 3 kilometers to the temple.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SAIYOK

Attraction in Amphoe Saiyok
Prasat Mueang Sing Historical Park

…The construction of Muang Sing was built by influence of the Khmer architecture, while the Khmer Kingdom was still prosperous. It was later abandoned until the reign of King Rama I, when Muang Singh was rebuilt as a Kanchanaburi border town. The only archeological site with a religious structure built in the middle of the city is the Khmer Prasat Mueang Sing (Tower of the City of Lions) where the heavy influence of the late Lopburi arts is clearly visible. The ancient site is located on a steep bank of Kwae Noi River where the waterway narrows and becomes fast flowing. The city walls, which were made of rectangular laterite, are approximately 800 meters in width, 1,500 meters in length and 5 meters in height. The compound is believed to have been the westernmost outpost of the Angkor-centered Khmer empire. Ramains dating back some 2,000 years have been discovered, and artifacts, including temple carvings, religious statuary and pottery shards indicate that the city must have been inhabited from the 16th to 18th centuries. The historical park is open daily from 09.00 – 16.30 Admission fee is 40 baht. Call 034-528456/7 for additional information. Visitors can go by train from Kanchanaburi to Tha Kilen Railway Station and continue on foot or by local transport to Prasat Mueang Sing, which is just 1.5 kilometers away. (look at train timetable on page no.4) by own vehicle : 40 mins. Take Kanchanaburi – Saiyok Route no.323 and turn left at KM.15 then keep going 7 km. to the Historical Park.

Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yannasampanno (Tiger Temple)

…Located in Tambon Singh, about 45 km. away from the city. The temple is well known by many reports of Western and Thai media, for is “Wildlife Rescue Project”. Due to the illegal hunting and wildlife trading, someone is taking of animals from the jungle to be kept as pets. These animals were being rescued; most of them are not fit to be sent back to the jungle because they are not wild anymore. Some tiger and wild animals escape from hunting and get wound. The kindly abbot of the temple help and treat them, he built this temple to let those poor animals to stay peacefully for the rest of their lives in the area 438 rai of a jungle and nature. There are many kinds of animal such as tiger, deer, wild boar, peacock, wild fowl etc. Open daily 08.30 – 17.00 and at 13.30 – 17.00 it open for tourists to see tigers closely and take photos with them (These animals are rather tame but they still wildlife.) To get there by own vehicle: take Highway No.323 the road to Saiyok District, pass the entrance to Muang Singh Park approx 6 km. and turn right from main street 2 km., by bus: take bus No.8203 get off on the way at the entrance and walk 2 km. to the temple.

Tham Krasae (The Death Railway)

…This cavenwas the camp of POW in WWII, is located 55 kilometers from Kanchanaburi, beside the viaduct side of the “Death Railway” overlooking Kwae Noi River and rafthouse. The cave is within walking distance from the railway tracks of Tham Krasae Railway Station, the most beautiful view point along traveling by train Kanchanaburi-Namtok Train Station.
Wangbadan Cave
…Situated in the area of Erawan National Park, approximately 63 kilometers out of town, and 3 kilometers behind Saiyok Noi Waterfall by walking up to the source of the waterfall. This is a deep cave with stalactites, stalagmites and in the bottom of the cave is a stream with white fish.





SaiyokNoi Waterfall

…It’s also dubbed as Namtok Khao Phang. It is situated 60 kilometers from town via Highway No.323. The place is best visited between July – September because of in dry season is less water. To get to Saiyok Noi Waterfall : non air-conditioned buses leave Kanchanaburi Bus Station every 30 minutes from 06.00 – 18.30 The journey takes 2 hours. Alternatively, visitors can take a train pass through steep gorges and round sheer cliff faces, the Death Railway from Kanchanaburi to Namtok Station and continue on foot or by local transport to the waterfall, which is 2 kilometers away. Trains depart from Kanchanaburi daily 3 times. The one-way rail trip takes about 2.5 hours (Please checks the current schedule from TAT Kanchanaburi or the railway station before departure.)

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SAIYOK

Lawa Cave

…The cave is on the side of Kwae Noi River, 75 kilometers from Kanchanaburi city. The entrance to the cave is a bit narrow although the interior is spacious with several chambers including the “music chamber”, the “throne chambers”, and the “curtain chamber” with stalactites and stalagmites in full display. The cave can be accessed either by boat or car. Chartered boats are available at the Pak Saeng Pier (southwest of Namtok Train Station), the trip takes 45 minutes and costs 800-1,000 baht per boat (capacity 8-10 people). Visitors traveling by driving car cross the bridge at Ban Kaeng Raboet to the cave and continue on foot.

Hell Fire Pass Memorial Museum

...This is a part of the Death Railway that was constructed during the World War II using POW labor to cut through the mountain. The site is located in a thick forest near Km.66th of the Saiyok-Thongphaphum Road (Highway No.323), 20 km. from Saiyok Noi Waterfall and 60 km. from Kanchanaburi. Along a 4-kilometer-walking trail made by the Allied prisoners visitors can envision the difficulties faced in constructing the Death Railway using simple tools. The pass is approximately 500 meters long and 26 meters deep. In 1943 Australian POWs employing hand drills, picks and shovels, baskets and dynamite completed it within six weeks. There is also a museum displaying contemporary photographs, maps, models, illustration, etc. from the period. Open daily from 9.00-16.00 Admission by donation.

Saiyok Yai Waterfall

...Situated near the office of Saiyok National Park. The park covers approximately 300 square kilometers and contains several interesting caves and the nation’s famous Saiyok Yai Waterfall. The park has dense forests, including majestic teak trees and an abundance of small mammals such as squirrels, bats and deer, ad well as numerous bird species. A rope bridge enables people to cross the river to view the waterfall. Rafts are available for an river trip along the riverbank but advance booking is recommended. Saiyok Yai Waterfall is 104 kilometers from town, by going future Saiyok Noi Waterfall 40 kilometers and turn left from the high way 323 approximately 3 kilometers. Bungalow accommodations, river rafts, camping facilities, and a daytime food market are available.

Daowadueng Cave

…Contain numerous stalactites and stalagmites which are wonderful and create naturally the beautiful scenery. Visitors have to prepare the light to get in the cave. To get to the cave, visitors can go by car along Highway 323 away from Kanchanaburi town 110 kilometers and by boat from Paksaeng Pier or Saiyok Yai Waterfall and walk to the cave 1 kilometer from the bank of Kwae Noi River.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE THONGPHAPHUM

Attraction in Amphoe Thongphaphum
HinDad Hot Springs

…Discovered by a Japanese soldier during the World War II, the riverside natural hot spring offers a pond for bathing and steeping. A temperature of mineral hot water is 45-55๐C. It’s situated approximately 130 km. from town and turn right 2 km. at Km.107th of Highway No.323.
Pha Tad Waterfall

... This huge waterfall in the western area of Sri Nakharin National Park is accessible through Thongphaphum District along Highway No.323, turn right at Km.105th , then proceed for 12 kilometers to the waterfall.


Namtok Pha Sawan

…This waterfall is located 155 kilometers from the city on Highway No.323, turn right at Km.110th about 28 kilometers or go by the connection route from Pha Tad Waterfall, and 40 min. walking from car park Visitors should go by 4-well-drive car. The beautiful 7-tiered waterfall, some highest about 80-100 meters and its best during July-January.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE THONGPHAPHUM

Vachiralongkorn Dam or Khao Laem Dam

…This hydroelectric dam is situated on Kwae Noi River, 6 kilometers north of Thongphaphum or 155 kilometers north of Kanchanaburi town by Highway No.323. The dam is 1,019 meters long and 92 meters high. The dam has bungalows and golf course available call 034-599077, 034-598030. A scenic reservoir where several resorts, raft houses are located offers unique opportunities for relaxing activities such as boat riding and fishing.

Thongphaphum National Park

…This National Park has many interesting attractions such as vies point to see scenery of hills, fog, jungle and lake. It’s also the nature route in lush forests which adventurous visitors can explore on foot to the several waterfalls; Jockadin Waterfall, Phapae Waterfall, Jedmit Waterfall. Only four-wheeled-drive cars are recommended and visitors have to contactforestry staff to lead the way. It’s located about 60 kilometers west of Thongphaphum on Route 3272.

Thung Nang Kruan Waterfall

…Situated in Khuen Sri Nakharing National Park, about 190 km. away from town, the large limestone waterfall has seven levels. To access the park, take route No.323 (Thongphaphum-Sangkhlaburi Road) and turn right at Km.26th make a further 18 km. drive to the waterfall and 1 km. walking to the 1st waterfall.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE THONGPHAPHUM

Lam Khong Ngoo National Park

…Located in the deep jungle in Thongphaphum District, the park is ideal for traveling and adventure in February-April because in rainy and after rain the water is high, visitor can not walk to the caves, it’s dangerous No accommodation is available, only for camping or tent. To get in the park, tourists have to contact tour agency or the forestry department in advance. Interesting attractions in the park are:

Sao Hin Cave

…Outstanding for its big limestone pillar about 62.5 meters height, various shape of stalagmites and stalactites which Huay Lam Khlong Ngoo (stream) flow through the cave all year round with a beach for swimming, which can be cruised to land up at Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall.
Nok Nang-Ann Cave
With Huay Lam Khlong Ngoo flows through as Sao Hin Cave. This fantastic cave is a large cavity approximately 3 kilometers long that can be passed through to other caves. Inside decorated with huge crystals of limestone and exquisite stalagmites.


Nam Tok Cave

…The underground stream is flowing in steps forming waterfall 17 levels in the cave, the top floor as high 20 meters. There are white clear calcite stalagmites and stalactites as long as 2,710 meters.
Yai Cave

…The largest cave in this area with the cave mouths about 50 meters in width. The cave can contain thousands of people. It had a sand bar for a vast area, around which a stream of water percolating from the cave ground and wall flows for a distance of about 200 meters and beautiful stalagmites/stalactites.
*Visitors have to contact travel agency; to get to the caves is quite difficult for adventure lovers and healthy only.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SANGKHLABURI

Attraction in Amphoe Sangkhlaburi
Dai Chong Thong Waterfall

…This is a rather big waterfall, which flows into the lake of Khao Laem Dam. Situated near Kroengkrawia Waterfall, by the Highway No.323 on the way to Sangkhlaburi District, turn left for 2 kilometers and walk 600 meters to the waterfall.




Kroeng Krawia Waterfall

…This roadside waterfall, about 180 km. from Kanchanaburi town or 32 km. north of Thongphaphum District, is often visited by passers-by along a journey to Sangkhlaburi District. The water cascades down a limestone rock face under shady trees. It is most beautiful during the rainy season.
Khao Laem National Park

…Located on Km.40th of 323 roadside, approximately 190 kilometers away from Kanchanaburi and 30 kilometers before Sangkhlaburi town. The park contain an area of approximately 1,497 sq.km. (935,625 rai) covering Amphoe Thongphaphum and Sanukhlaburi, the park is famous for its Natural beauties including a vast and peaceful reservoir of Vachiralongkorn Dam and fertile tropical forest with limestone misty mountains. Various species of wildlife are found here. There is the nature route-walking trail to Kra Teng Cheng Waterfall, and also an area for camping and rest house for tourist.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SANGKHLABURI

Kra Teng Cheng Waterfall

…A big waterfall with 23 levels in the plenty forest. There is the walking trail from Khao Laem National Park Head-quarters, 2 km. to the last waterfall. On the top is the view seeing point. Tourists have to contract the forestry staff for leading the way.



Pompi National Park Protection Unit Area

...Situated adjacent to Vachiralongkorn reservoir, the area from which a wonderful view of reservoir and sunset could be appreciated is ideal for camping, relaxing activities, bird watching, boat paddle and fishing. It’s 2 kilometers away from the office of Khao Laem National Park.
Takhian Thong Waterfall

turn left at the junction and go on for 10 km. and from car park take another 40-minute walk to the falls. Visitors are advised to use a four-wheeled-drive car due to the road conditions.


Sawan Bandan Cave

…This beautiful and large cave with stalagmites and stalactites is located on the way to Three Pagodas Pass and turn right at Km.16th approximately 1 km. to the cave. It’s maintained by monks.…This multi-tiered waterfall and shady trees is located approximately 250 km. from Kanchanaburi town. To get to the waterfall, travel along the route to the Three Pagodas Pass, then

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SANGKHLABURI

Three Pagodas Pass

…This pass is located approximately 240 kilometers from the city or 22 kilometers from Sangkhlaburi. The 3 miniature pagodas are memorials of the important routing of a strategic military for both Thai and Burmese. However, it is currently a small border market. The three miniature pagodas are memorials to the traditional invasion route favored by Burmese soldiers during the Ayatthaya period (1350-1767). Visitors wishing to visit Myanmar are advised to obtain a pass, which allows visitors to visit Burmese settlements from Sangkhlaburi Immigration Office, but foreigners can’t get stamp or extend new visa. Foreign Tourists have to pay 10 US.$ to Burmese to get in Myanmar. The border opens between 8.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m., according to depending on the political situation.

Mon Bridge

…Also known locally as “Uttamanuson Bridge”, the bridge links Sangkhlaburi market and Mon villages. Thailand’s longest wooden bridge, it is 850 meters long and crosses Songkalia River. In addition, it is a famous viewpoint from which to admire the merging point of three rivers, Songkalia, Bikhli and Ranti.

Wat Wang Wiwekaram

…The temple situated near Mon Bridge, approximately 225 kilometers away from Kanchanaburi town. This extensive temple on the southern outskirts of Sangkhlaburi edges on Khao Laem reservoir. The complex is constructed in an unusual mix of Thai, Indian, and Burmese Buddhist architectural styles, and the abbot ‘Luang Pho Uttama’ is highly revered among local people, Thai, Karen, Mon, including tribal folk and Burmese.

Muang Badan (Underwaterworld)

…this is the Ole Wangwiwegaram Temple, which was sunk in the lake from the construction of Vachiralongkorn Dam in 1979. Luang Pho Uttama, the Chief Monk of the temple rebuilt the New Wangwiwegaram Temple on the bank of river in Amphoe Sangkhlaburi. So, the ole temple becomes to the underwaterworld, wonderful architecture and beautiful nature surrounding. It would appear the old temple up in dry season, ebbing waters in the reservoir. To get to the underwaterworld (Muang Badan), approximately 1-2 hrs. by boat or house boat from Sangkhlaburi town along Songkalia River.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE SRI SAWAT

Attraction in Amphoe Sri Sawat
Erawan Waterfall

…Situated in Erawan National Park is 65 km. from town along Highway No.3199. The park, covering 550 square km., is the site of the 7-tiered Erawan Waterfall, one of Thailand’s loveliest waterfalls. The second tier has a pool, which is ideal for swimming and is particularly picturesque. However, the most popular activity in the park is trekking. Bungalow and camping facilities and a daytime food market are available. Visitors can reach the waterfall by own vehicle or take a bus from Kanchanaburi Bus Station (look at bus timetable on page no.2)

Sri Nakharin Dam

…The great hydro-electricpower plant,situated on Kwae Yai River, 70 km. from Kanchanaburi, and just 5 km. north of the Erawan Waterfall. In an area of the dam, tourist can look around the “Sundial Garden” and there are bungalow, golf course, cruising boat, restaurant for service. Beyond the dam is a beautiful lake surrounded with lush forests. Many raft house, resort and boat for relaxing, fishing.



Phra That Cave

…This relatively large mountain cave with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, shape looks like coral, some stone is translucent. It’s located in an area of Erawan National Park, away from Kanchanaburi approx 75 km. and 8 km. beyond the Erawan Waterfall. The cave is 20 m. long and can be explored within 1 hour. Visitors can contact the forestry staff before go up to the cave for guide services.




Huai Maekhamin Waterfall

…A major attraction in Sri Nakarin National Park is this beautiful 7-tiered waterfall, which is conveniently accessible by foot via a trial near the park’s headquarters. Trekking through forests and bamboo groves offers unrivaled opportunities to admire a rich variety of butterflies and bird species. Bungalows are available (book in advance 034-511167); however, visitors are advised to bring their own food as there are food outlets available. It’s 108 km. from town.

Chalerm Rattana Kosin National Park (Than Lod Cave)

…97 kilometers away from town by Highway No.3086, pass Bo Ploi and Nong Prue District. There are beautiful caves and waterfalls; Than Lod Noi Cave, Than Lod Yai Cave, which are accessible through a 2.5 kilometers nature trail along the stream, via Tri Trueng Waterfall and also natural trail to Than Ngoen Waterfall and Than Thong Waterfall. Bungalow and camping are available.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE BO PHLOI

Attraction in Amphoe Bo Phloi
Safari Park

...located 40 km. from town along the Kanchanaburi-Bo Phloi route (No.3086). It is home to Kanchanaburi African and Asian mammals, including giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers and bears that dwell in beautifully landscaped environs. Visitors can closely look around and feed food to various animals by driving own private car or take the park’s bus service to explore the park and to see the showoff elephants, dogs and crocodiles. Open daily 9.00-17.00 For more details please call 034-500088-9.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE THA MUANG

Attraction in Amphoe Tha Muang

Wat Tham Suea

…Located at Tambon Muang Chum, 6 km. beyond Mea Klong Dam. The temple is built in a mixed, splendid Thai-Chinese style and enshrines a huge Buddha image and pagoda.

Wat Tham Khao Noi

…Located near Wat Tham Suea, approximately 18 km. south of Kanchanaburi. The monastery was constructed on the hill and decorated in Chinese style. Going up the hill is rewarding as you can see panoramic view of the city.


Hot Spring Ponds Wat Wang Khanay

…Situated in the temple, Wang Khanay Thayikaram, the natural hot spring ponds are always crowded with those who have problem with muscle pain, paralysis and blood circulation. There are 52 ponds (sitting ponds, standing ponds and lying ponds) the mineral hot spring is 42 Celsius degree.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE THA MAKA

Attraction in Amphoe Tha Maka
Phong Tuk Archaeological Site

…Located 38 kilometers south of town on the way to Bangkok and to Wat Dong Sak, is where artifacts of the Amaravati and Dvaravati periods (6th – 7th Century BE) such as a Roman Bronze lamp and Buddha images were found.


Wat Phra Thaen Dong Rang


…The temple which is situated approximately 10 kilometers from ThaRua Market, of some 40 km. from down town. A Buddha’s footprint and a sacred stone which locals believe was a bed for the Lord Buddha during his illness before he ascended to Nirvana. Thee are many Buddha images and a local museum.

ATTRACTION IN AMPHOE PANOMTHUAN

Attraction in Amphoe Panomthuan
Wat Thung Samor (Kuan Yin)

…The temple is located approximately 15 kilometers from Kanchanaburi city on U-Thong Road, Highway No.324 the route to Suphanburi The major attraction is a big Kuan Yin statue was constructed beautifully in Wat Thung Samor.

DON CHEDI ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

Don Chedi Archaeological Site

…Situated in Baan Don Chedi (means pagoda), the site was found by the Fine Arts Department when an excavation revealed important remains such as ancient sword, elephant jaw bones, human skeletons and an Ayutthaya-style Chedi. From the findings, most historians believe that the site was the killing field where a Yutthatthi battle took place. Close to the site, was built using money donated by locals to honor the victory of King Naresuan the Great Monument over the Crown Prince of Burma.

RIVER KWAE BRIDGE WEEK

River Kwae Bridge Week



…Each year, on Late November till Early December, the world famous bridge becomes the local point of celebrations. Highlights include exhibitions and historical and archaeological displays; a carnival featuring sideshows, roundabouts, folk entertainment, and cultural performances; and a nightly light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge’s Second World War history, including an Allied bombing raid and World War II steam locomotive train. This festival is very popular, so it is advisable to book hotels in advance.



By Tourism Authority of Thailand ( TAT ) Central Region 1 Tel. 034-511200,034-623691