Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a 2 hour drive west of Bangkok or a longer journey by rail. The area can be visited as a one day trip from Bangkok or better as a stopover destination for multiple days. There are numerous activities that can be undertaken here most on or around the River Kwai. Hiking, canoeing, bird watching, mountain biking, visiting elephant camps, hot spring pools, ethnic villages and, of course, Hell Fire Pass as immortalized in the book and the movie 'The Bridge Over the River Kwai'. The bridge is one of the most important historical landmarks in Kanchanaburi. You can walk over it and experience stunning views of the surrounding jungles and mountains. It is also possible to take a train ride over the Tham Krasae Bridge also known as the Wampo Viaduct. This wooden viaduct is the forgotten section of the death railway but well worth the time for a visit. The climate of Kanchanaburi, which is cooled by the hills, forest, and rivers, is a welcome respite from the heat and pollution of Bangkok facilitating the wide range of outdoor activities available. There are a variety of popular accommodation options as well with our personal favorites being on the floating raft bungalows.