2-Day Kanchanaburi Itinerary | Explore Death Railway & Epic Waterfalls

The cozy town of Kanchanaburi in southwest Thailand makes a perfect getaway from Bangkok or a weekend holiday with the family. A 2-day Kanchanaburi itinerary gives tourists enough time to explore top sites at a leisurely pace, which is highly recommended. Kanchanaburi is home to some of Thailand’s most historic and famous landmarks, like the Bridge Over the River Kwai, as well as some of the most stunning scenery in Erawan National Park.

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During the early 1940s, Thailand was occupied by Japanese forces, and many civilians, and some Allied soldiers, were forced to construct the Thailand-Burma Railway. This railway line was used to send Japanese supplies into Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). Because of Kanchanaburi’s strong historical ties to WWII, many tourists visit this area to pay homage to those who lost their lives, specifically visiting sites like the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum. No matter what reason visitors come to the area, Kanchanaburi is a beautiful city that’s steeped in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and sure to be a thrilling destination for travelers from all walks of life.

Getting to Kanchanaburi

Most vacationers will be traveling to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok, which is Thailand’s capital, and generally where most international flights will land. Typically, travelers get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok by bus or rented shuttle. This travel method is inexpensive, will cost less than 10 dollars for the three-hour journey, and will probably be shared with other travelers and locals. Visitors who want privacy may opt for a private car, though costs for a private vehicle will be around 70 to 80 dollars. Many of these vehicle services are offered through private companies, and hotel concierge staff will be happy to make recommendations and help with arrangements for guests.

Another popular method to get to Kanchanaburi is via train, from the Bangkok Thonburi Train Station. The Thonburi Train Station is located in the Bangkok Noi neighborhood. A train ride from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi will take about two and a half hours and typically costs less than 15 dollars. There are several departure times throughout the day, so visitors can find a time that best suits their needs. Kanchanaburi is famous for its natural vistas, so visitors who are hoping to get an overview of the area are certain to enjoy their train ride into the city.

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Getting Around Kanchanaburi

Driving yourself either by car or motorbike is the easiest way to get around Kanchanaburi town. Tourists who don’t have vehicles in town can get a lift on orange and yellow songthaews (covered pickup trucks) anytime from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and motorbike taxis and tuk tuks also are available. Bicycles can be rented at a few different locations as well. To go out of town to Sai Yok National Park and Erawan Falls, guests can take the train, hire a driver or join a tour group, which generally can be arranged through any hotel or local tour agency.

Local Cuisine

Thailand is known for its delicious cuisine, and Kanchanaburi is home to some tasty restaurants that are sure to appeal to a variety of tastes. Here are some of the top restaurants in the area that will surely have travelers dreaming of Thai food long after they’ve returned home.

• Keeree Mantra Restaurant is an open-air restaurant that delivers delicious food and features a great ambiance. Located west of the main city area, Keeree Mantra Kanchanaburi serves traditional Thai cuisine, all while guests are surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the mountains and lake. Reservations are recommended.
• Visitors who are hoping for an upscale dining experience may want to opt for a visit to 113 Steak. This interesting steakhouse offers gorgeous cuts of beef, that are perfectly seasoned, cooked, and served. Centrally located, 113 Steak is a small, modern eatery that only serves a few guests at a time, so reservations are necessary.
• For specialty dining, travelers will want to give On’s Thai-Issan Vegan. This delicious restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes that are big on flavor. Centrally located in Kanchanaburi, this restaurant offers an extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes, so more than one visit is recommended. Portion sizes are considered large, so it’s recommended that visitors come hungry.

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Kanchanaburi Itinerary Day 1 | Explore Kanchanaburi History

Kanchanaburi may be small in size, but its historical impact is enormous. The town maintains several quality museums and landmarks that detail the horrific history of the Thai-Burma Railway construction, as well as Thailand’s role in World War II. A chilled-out day soaking in the details is a good way to get a feel for Kanchanaburi.

• JEATH War Museum – photographs and artifacts at this museum depict what life was like for prisoners of war who worked on the Death Railway. JEATH War Museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Admission for foreigners is 30 THB (1 USD).
• Bridge Over the River Kwai – though a reconstruction, this bridge symbolizes the original bridge that was built at the cost of more than 100,000 lives. Visitors can cross the bridge for free and explore the riverfront, which is a good spot to grab lunch, a cold drink and a breather under a shade tree.
• Thai-Burma Railway (Death Railway) – visitors can experience a ride on nearly 50 miles (77 kilometers) of the original 258-mile (415-kilometer) long Thai-Burma Railway. The roundtrip train trip takes about two hours and crosses some of the most scenic territory in all of Thailand. Passengers can buy tickets for the train tour at Tha Kilen Station, which is about an hour’s train ride from Saphan Kwae Yai Station in Kanchanaburi town.
• Art Gallery and War Museum – neighboring JEATH War Museum and River Kwai Bridge, the Art Gallery and War Museum contains a private collection of World War II art, weapons and gems. The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Tickets are 40 THB (1.30 USD) for foreigners.
• Hellfire Pass Memorial – visitors can walk through a corridor of the railway that was carved through a boulder by Australian and British soldiers. The section earned its name because 700 of 1,000 soldiers who worked on the project died during its 12-week construction.

Kanchanaburi Itinerary Day 2 | Enjoy Waterfalls & Ancient Castle Grounds

After an intense day of learning Kanchanaburi’s history, travelers should be ready for a laid-back day in the jungle. An early morning start to the northern region of Kanchanaburi is advised to get the most out of hiking and sightseeing in two national parks and on the grounds of a historic castle.

• Erawan National Park – with seven excellent hiking trails and a seven-tiered waterfall with swimming pools, Erawan National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand. Families can spend hours monkeying around and picnicking at Erawan Falls, and spelunkers will enjoy several well-marked caves in the area. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Entrance fees for foreigners are 300 THB (10 USD) for adults and 200 THB (6.50 USD).
• Sai Yok National Park – adventurists will love the trek through Sai Yok Noi Water Fall, where wooden footbridges lead guests through rugged terrain alongside three flowing tiers of water. Trekkers also will find numerous caves and interesting wildlife along the way. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Entry fees for foreigners are 300 THB (10 USD) for adults and 150 THB.
• Prasat Mueang Sing Historical Park – visitors will want to block out about an hour of time to explore this ancient Buddhist castle near Tha Kilen Station. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entry fee for foreigners is 100 THB.

Alternative Day 2 Itinerary | Elephant Sanctuaries

No trip to Thailand is complete without a visit to an elephant sanctuary. Elephants are majestic animals that have complex social structures and are worthy of respect, so it is important to choose elephant sanctuaries that prioritize proper care of these animals, rather than a space that emphasizes direct interaction, like elephant rides. Kanchanaburi has plenty of great elephant sanctuaries to choose from, and here are some of the top options for vacationers to consider:

• Elephants World is committed to the care and safety of its animals and has more than 10 elephants on its property. At this excursion, visitors can expect scenic views, opportunities to feed and watch the elephants in their natural habitat, and a tasty buffet for lunch. Elephants World has half-day, full-day, and overnight excursions available, so guests can pick what best suits their needs.
• Elephant Haven Thailand is an elephant sanctuary in Kanchanaburi that offers visitors an opportunity to see elephants play, roam, and enjoy their lives after being rescued from elephant trekking companies. Visitors generally will experience opportunities to feed and bathe the animals. While the exact itinerary will depend on what’s best for the elephants, travelers can expect a thrilling day where they’ll come to have a greater understanding and appreciation of these amazing animals. Elephant Haven Thailand offers half-day and full-day excursions for guests to choose from.
• Somboon Legacy Foundation takes a hands-off approach to their elephants, so guests can expect to observe these wonderful creatures as they go about their lives, roaming freely wherever they’d like. There are also cultural experiences to be enjoyed at this location, like cutting banana trees at a local farm. Somboon Legacy Foundation also offers half-day, full-day, and overnight trips, so guests can decide what best suits their desires.

Where to Stay in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has plenty of gorgeous hotels and resorts to choose from, with unique and modern amenities that will leave guests impressed. Here are some of the top picks for the area that will help guide them to finding the hotel of their dreams.

Mida Resort Kanchanaburi

Enjoy the majesty of the nearby River Kwai while staying at Mida Resort Kanchanaburi. This luxurious hotel boasts modern amenities and decor, with rooms that feature air conditioning, refrigerators, and free Wi-Fi. In shared areas, guests can enjoy on-site entertainment, a pool with a stunning view, spa services, and water sports. Adventurous visitors may want to opt for a stay in one of the riverside tents. These unique lodgings get guests up close and personal with the River Kwai, while still featuring modern comforts, like a plush mattress and crisp linens, a mini-bar, refrigerator, coffee and tea maker, and daily housekeeping. With all this and more, Mida Resort Kanchanaburi is ready to give guests the stay of a lifetime.

Felix River Kwai Resort

Felix River Kwai Resort is a riverside retreat that will thrill guests with its stunning views of the River Kwai, along with its modern amenities. In the hotel rooms, guests are certain to appreciate the air conditioning, along with the mini-bar and refrigerator, free bottled water, and free Wi-Fi. Around the resort, the hotel impresses with great offerings, like indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, massage services, snorkeling opportunities, and on-site entertainment. Whether guests are gearing up for relaxation or hoping to enjoy some time in nature, Felix River Kwai Resort has just what guests will need, and more.

Saiyok River House

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature, straight from the rooms at Saiyok River House. This stunning hotel is surrounded by lush forests and the gently flowing river, and offers superior rooms with amazing views. Hotel guests are certain to enjoy the hotel’s modern amenities, like air conditioning, free bottled water, in-room microwave, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel itself is also packed with fun extras, like a games room, a garden, karaoke services, and hiking opportunities. Guests with children or those who love to step out into nature and get their feet wet will surely appreciate a stay at this beautiful hotel.

Nakakiri Resort and Spa

Get comfortable and experience the beauty and serene splendor of Nakakiri Resort and Spa. This amazing resort and spa is packed with relaxing extras for travelers, like massage services, an outdoor swimming pool, on-site entertainment, and a solarium. When it comes to room amenities, Nakakiri Resort and Spa impresses with air conditioning, blackout curtains, free bottled water, a refrigerator, and free Wi-Fi. For food, the hotel has a little bit of everything, with Asian, American, and buffet-style meals, along with several dining locations. For an all-in-one resort that will leave guests impressed, Nakakiri Resort and Spa is just what’s needed.

Bamboo House Kanchanaburi

For impressive views and an elegant ambiance, Bamboo House Kanchanaburi is just what travelers need. Step into this beautiful, unique hotel and experience their floating rooms that are situated directly on top of the river, and packed with modern amenities, like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and free bottled water. The hotel itself is centrally located, and impresses by offering plenty of ways to relax, like boating opportunities, a garden, massage services, and tour offerings. For travelers who are hoping to stay at a hotel that really can do it all, the Bambook House Kanchanaburi is just what they need.

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Mida Resort Kanchanaburi (SHA Certified)

Felix River Kwai Resort

Saiyok River House