Welcome to Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Kanchanaburi is the capital of Kanchanaburi Province and is located at the confluence of the rivers Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai.

Kanchanaburi (population 52,000) is the gateway to Kanchanaburi Province. For most visitors it holds precisely one sight of interest, namely the Bridge over the River Kwai, the start of the infamous World War II Death Railway to Burma (Myanmar), although there is an increasingly thriving backpacker scene taking advantage of the chilled-out riverside vibe. More foreign visitors are discovering why Thais know it as one of the most beautiful provinces in the country with its easily accessible waterfalls and national parks.

Local Attractions:

The Bridge over the River Kwai is located some 3 km north of Kanchanaburi, this iron bridge across the Kwae Yai river is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous Death Railway to Burma, constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during World War 2. Some 16,000 POWs and 100,000 Asian workers died during the railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but 2 central 'boxy' spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing.

Erawan Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand and a must see if you are in Kanchanaburi.

Sai Yok Noi waterfalls are more accessible but less spectacular than the Erawan falls.

Lumnam Jone Water Way is the beginning of the River Kwai. It is located in Amphoe Sri Sawat. It has a beautiful surrounding and cystal clear water.

Elelphants and Friends Conservation Camp started in November 2005, with the goal to help the mistreated, sick and old elephants in Thailand and to give them a good home.