31 Incredible things to do in and around Kanchanaburi

If you love nature and history, you’ll love visiting Kanchanaburi, a western province of Thailand, bordering Myanmar, just 3 hours’ drive by car from Bangkok and conveniently accessible by train.

The blend of history during WWII, abundance of incredible nature and rich culture make Kanchanaburi an ideal travel destination – whether you decide to take a day trip, or spend a week or a month.

Kanchanaburi has plenty things to do that you’ll wish to stay even longer!

From visiting Malikka Village, an ancient town where you shop with ancient currency and experience how locals used to live – to staying at out-of-this-world floating river resorts… You’ll fall in love with Kanchanaburi just like we did.

Also read: 

Floating hotels on the river: 10 riverfront hotels in Kanchanaburi with amazing views

9 riverside restaurants in Kanchanaburi with spectacular views!

3D2N itinerary to Kanchanaburi: A personal review of what we experienced and how you can do it too!

6 fun weekend and day trips from Bangkok – including Khao Yai, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin, Kanchanaburi and more

Here are 23 truly incredible activities in Kanchanaburi that will make your vacation the epitome of unforgettable.

PS: To fully enjoy your Kanchanaburi trip, we recommend getting a private car charter. We personally used Klook’s Private Car Charter and it was not only convenient, but super comfortable too!

1. A floating barbeque, are you for real? – The Raft

Now, this is a pretty genius concept for a place like Kanchanaburi where the lake waters are so prominent, and what could be better than perhaps spending a day and night on them?

Here you can either choose to stay the night, where you’ll sleep in cabins on the boat on water, or you can go with the afternoon BBQ on water option.

It’s private which is perfect, and they’ve done up the boat to give it a homely feel – like a little home on water, so let’s call it a houseboat rather.

The insides are warm, clean and really quite beautiful and there’s the perfect amount of space to suit and fit a family.

Feel free to relax and really make it your home, jump off the raft, take leisurely swims, and spend the day on the deck in the sun, taking epic boat photos (and selfies).

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2. Wake up to the sun rising over glistening waters – Thawsi Lake Hill

Ever dreamt of staying at a Lake House? You know, like the ones in all the movies – granted sometimes they’re horror movies – but nonetheless, you catch my drift. If so, this might be right up your alley, plus it’s a gorgeous little spot too!

Tucked among the tropical treetops, spend the night (or five) chilling out and rejuvenating the body at this bed and breakfast that is simply wow in my opinion.

Each villa-style house has its own deck patio area that directly faces the lake, which is so calming and brings the body back to zen – and a perfect way to wake up and enjoy your morning coffee.

The rooms are done beautifully, and each has a very natural raw feeling to it using lots of woods and clean cement.

As if it weren’t all enough there’s an infinity pool, plus massage chairs, table tennis table and hikes and sailing on the lake can be organised and done from here too!

Oh, and did we mention the outdoor tub that each room comes with? Set on the terrace of your villa, well…you can find me there tomorrow!

3. Water villas with Open-air Jacuzzi with an incredible view in Kanchanaburi – Raya Buri Resort

Wow, talk about luxurious! We’re loving all the homes on water, so we couldn’t leave this one off the list.

It’s different in that you stay in a floating house, and this one doesn’t move from its pier so you can access all the amenities that the resort offers just a short walk away.

Again, complete privacy is guaranteed but even more so here as this piece of water land, on the Srinakarin Dam. It is boarded off completely for the fun and use of Raya Buri guests only. You can also take canoes as well as swan boats, and have a whole lot of giggles on the water.

With the house still being on water, you have that feeling of serenity that being on water brings, but do expect to be living in a bit of luxury for while. This pad is full on glam with your private jacuzzi, breathtaking views and beautiful interiors.

Although each chalet is built next to each other, they are still private and closed off and each comes with its own private deck (which is where your jacuzzi sits, ah it’s dreamy really)

The rooms have a French/English feel to them, done in whites (although some of the suites vary in design) and everything is really beautiful and comfortable here.

4. Indulge in a bubble bath on water, with the most beautiful views – Phrae Khao Laem

If you’re looking to upgrade your water house dreams, especially if it’s a large group of you, you need to check out this next little piece of heaven, water villa style.

The rooms are a beaut, the beds are soft and it also comes equipped with a basic outdoor kitchen, so you don’t have to worry about getting hungry.

Jump off your private deck straight into the water, AND your villa comes equipped with its own set of water inflatables to play around with!

My favourite part is the patio terrace, and from here they’ve extended it using meshed nets – the ones so popular in Thailand – so you can cuddle up in your duvet here, admiring the morning clouds sipping on tea, as the day begins.

Take a boat out and go canoe at your own leisure and time, and get straight back into a hot warm bath right.

Lastly, you can grab snacks and things from local ladies floating past on shop boats so you won’t ever go hungry.

5. Have a digital detox at this floating water retreat – The Float House River Kwai

Undoubtedly one of the most luxurious on our list, your river adventure starts with a 7 minute longtail boat trip – as you transfer from the Phutakien Pier to your luxury villa – much more fun than a boring taxi!

The floating air-conditioned villas are large, with beautiful teakwood furniture and traditional thatched roofs.

Your private balcony complete with deck chairs and a porch swing, bobs gently on the river, the perfect place to relax.

For those who’d love a swim in the river, there’s a float on a rope for safety (and fun) too.

The hotel is based on ‘Contemporary Boutique Folk Style’ – and when you see the relaxing swing benches complete with straw roofs, and colourful soft furnishings you will totally understand.

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the riverside restaurant, watching the sun set across the surrounding jungle.

Why not take a trip out and go for a hike to check out the local scenery? Simply head to the restaurant and cross the small bridge there to get to the starting point. From here, you’ll be able to head to the cavernous Lawa Cave, Mon Village, Wat Mon and more!

The Float House River Kwai Resort has a strong sustainability and environmental ethos, making sure they fit in with the beautiful jungle surroundings – making you feel even closer to nature.

Be at one with the river and let your worries float away at the gorgeous Float House River Kwai Resort.

PS: It’s an extraordinary sensation every time a longtail boat passes by. Your villa and balcony will bob along to the moving current of the river!

6. Walk the walk of death and take in WWII history – Death Railway @ Tham Krasae Overlook

The name “Death Railway” was formed as a reminder of the many deaths of the allied POWs and slaves who constructed the Thai-Burma Railway during WWII.

Despite its horrendous history, this section of the Death Railway at Tham Krasae Station is very scenic. The rail track was built on high wooden structures, curving and bending along the cliff of the mountain on one side, and the peaceful River Kwai on the other side.

The best (or horrifying, for some) part is that you will be able to walk along the track.

But we have to warn you – it’s pretty high from the ground and there’s a train. Yes, a train runs through this track several times a day. So if you see a train coming, make sure to run really fast.

Don’t forget to grab a drink or meal at one of the restaurants overlook the river!

You will get a better view of the train coming toward the station. Remember to check out the market at Tham Krasae station for souvenirs before you leave too!

7. Spend a night on the face of the cliff – Khao Phu Mai Daeng Mountain

We’re not kidding. You read it right. At Khao Phu Mai Daeng Mountain, you will be sleeping on a stretcher hanging off the face of the cliff – secured by ropes 180 meter above the ground below.

A professional rock-climbing team offers a trip of a lifetime, known as Big Wall Rock Trip.

Start off by propelling from the top of a 200 meter cliff, down 20 meters below to where the setup – by professionals – is located.

You will quite literally hang out here in the afternoon, have dinner and spend the night, before propelling down the next morning after breakfast back to the ground below.

If you can get over the fear, the view up here is pretty amazing, and this will be the most thrilling night you might ever have.

PS: Recommended for people with a level of high fitness only!

8. Dress in the old Siam attire and chill – Malika R E 124 Village

Malika R E 124 is the newest, exciting attraction in Kanchanaburi that you definitely have to visit.

It’s a fun activity that gives you the opportunity to ‘live’ in Thailand during 1903 – when it was called Siam and was considered the Golden Age of Thailand!

Malika R E 124 goes above and beyond to provide the full “Living Heritage” experience. Staff dress and talk as if they were authentically living back in that time – and you will see how they prepare, cook food, work, and live their lives over 100 years ago.

The food and dessert is pretty delicious too!

If you want to play the part of living history, rent a traditional period Thai costume for a day to walk around the village, and exchange money to old coins in order to buy things inside.

There are plenty of beautiful corners and charming people for you to take photos of in the village.

PS: We recommend getting a colorful parasol to help shield yourself from the sun – it makes a great photo prop too!

9. Ride a cable car to a stunning temple with breathtaking views – Wat Tham Sua

This temple sits on a hill top, and you can take a short cable car ride to visit it – or climb 157 steps to reach the top.

First off, pay homage to a striking giant golden seated Buddha image resting in an open dome. Feel free to drop coins in a tray on a conveyor belt that carries them to the center bowl – a Thai tradition of making merit for good luck and fortune.

Next, go to “Ket Kaew” pagoda, an 8-story polygonal structure that holds Buddhist relics, and climb up to the top – sorry no cable car this time – for a feast for your eyes. The view is totally worth the climb!

Panoramic views of rural Kanchanaburi with rice paddies, the mountain range, and river stretching far beyond the horizon are unbelievably picturesque.

Without a doubt, you’ll find peace and tranquility up here.

Tip: Appropriate attire is required for women to visit this temple. No shorts allowed. But no worries, sarongs are available for rent at the entrance to temple.

10. There’s a new cafe in town and it’s in the rice fields – Rak Kanna (รักษ์คันนา กาญจนบุรี)

The true beauty of this cafe lies in its natural surroundings and you’ll find it by driving to fields of emerald rice paddies fields. This is where you’ll spend the next hour or so sitting in the most gorgeous settings.

The cafe is built from raw wood and thatch-stick and the little spot is completely open, so there are complete 360-degree panoramic views.

They’ve built a full observation deck with a bridged pathway that runs into the paddies themselves so you really feel like you’re in them! It also makes for amazing photos with that backdrop!

Not only do they sell noodles, and noodle soups, but they serve coffee, cakes and traditional Thai desserts – so if you’re looking for something sweet you’ll find it here too!

PS: Around the golden hour, just before the sun sets, the lighting here becomes breathtaking as streaks of yellow sun dance across the grass tips and sets over the Tiger Cave Temple!

11. Dangle your feet, or hang out on a net over the river – Dejtosapak Restaurant

Serene, calm and relaxing ambience are some of the words to describe Dejtosapak Restaurant.

This open-air restaurant with river, mountains and green vistas is exactly what you need to have a memorable dining experience in Kanchanaburi. Head indoors and the rustic wooden décor is perfectly placed to provide the right amount of privacy for diners.

Outdoors, the scene takes a different turn. Right below your dining table, the space is open for you to hang your feet through the platform (there are no chairs!) as you indulge in authentic Thai food.

Dejtosapak restaurant vows to not accept money if the food served is not fresh. Now, that’s called a deal!

There’s a net mesh at the edge of the outdoor platform, right above the water to accommodate 3. So, roll back, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. As the sun starts setting, the restaurant will be lit up which makes an undoubtedly charming sight.

After dinner, why not hire a raft service offered by the restaurant to spend some more quality time with your beau/family/friends?

12. Chill by the hills – Keeree Mantra Restaurant

Bored of all the hype over river-view dining? Try a view of the hills instead! Keeree Manta is a sister restaurant of Keere Tara restaurant. Situated on the motorway to Myanmar, this one has piqued our interest.

Driving into this restaurant hidden among mountains and meadows, you’ll feel like you’re leaving Kanchanaburi behind and entering a whole new city – since it’s surrounded by nothing but mountains, fields, garden and flowers as far as your eyes can see.

Also, a huge fountain for more photos, and let’s not get started about the bathroom area… Keeree Mantra offers an interesting menu of dishes ranging from steamed fish fillet to baked fish with 4 different sauces.

If you happen to be there on weekends, do order Python fish from their special menu. You’ll regret if you don’t. Time to bring those taking-a-stroll-in-the-fields-after-lunch moments back. Just don’t forget the SPF 40!

13. Fancy finding a Great Gatsby-ish Cafe in Kanchanaburi – Ravi Riva Cafe De Forest

This cafe oozes vintage bistro vibes, but with a different era of vintage, there’s a certain 20s feel to it.

Situated at the waterfront and it has this Great Gatsby era feel, from the design of building to the insides with green ferns and these gorgeous chandeliers hanging down – very old world European.

Especially if you love taking photos, the lighting in here will make you fall in love with streaks of sunlight filtering through the open glass windows.

From the triangular glass front windows with brickwork everywhere to the warm yellow lighting, and gold statues on the walls of almost regal animal heads. It’s really quite a fancy cafe to stumble on in the middle of Kanchanaburi!

14. Check-in for mouth-watering desserts – Farm Cafe’ De Kalavela

Got a sweet tooth? Trust us and head right to Farm Café De Kalavela, which takes its desserts rather seriously.

Taking confectionery portion sizes and its plating to a whole new level, the café is sure to bring out the kid in you.

This country-style spot which looks like a glass house on a small farm is surrounded by a beautiful garden, offering both indoor and outdoor seating. The vintage décor and toned-down ambience are really ideal for a lazy afternoon in Kanchanaburi.

Along with its famous desserts, the café also offers a variety of homemade bread, drinks and seasonal nibs. The special salad, made from the café’s own organic plants will tantalise your taste buds and fill your belly!

15. Discover the mysterious hidden temple – Sunken Temple at Sangklaburi

Once a village, now it’s a lake. The old Sangkla Buri village was flooded in order to construct a dam. When the water is at the highest, the only thing you will see is the top of the bell tower peeking out from the surface.

But if you come during dry season from March to May, the whole temple will reveal itself on a small island in the middle of the lake. You can see the remains of the old village are just a couple of monasteries.

There are left with nothing but exterior walls, fallen stupa, and stone Buddha head. You can then walk on the temple ground, and imagine that all where you are will be under the water again.

Don’t beat yourself up if you happen to visit Sangkla Buri during wet season. Hire a boat from Wooden Mon Bridge in the morning when the lake is covered by the morning mist to visit the flooded site.

It’ll add a mystery of a sunken temple, sleeping, hidden away underneath in the deep green waters of the lake. And some tour offers kayaking and scuba diving.

16. Travel back in time and witness the ingenuity of Khmer architects – Muang Singh Historical Park

You don’t need to go to Cambodia to witness the fallen civilisation of Khmer empire.

Less than an hour’s drive from Kanchanaburi’s city center, Mueng Singh (or Lion City) Historical Park was once the last outpost of Angkor back in the 12th century.

After you enter the park, there are several buildings and small ruins throughout the park. But the most significant building is the main shrine, Prasat Mueng Singh – at the center of the site built in Bayon style.

Inside, you will find an 8-armed statue of Lokeshvara – and witness the ingenuity of Khmer architects who used massive blocks of sandstone to build such an impressive structure that still stands today.

The ground and perimeters of the park are well maintained with trees and flowers. Perfect for leisurely roaming around and just enjoying a little time travel back to the 12th century!

17. Take a boat to this jungle spa and pamper yourself! – Rock Valley Hot Spring and Fish Spa

Hidden in the lush jungle by the bank of River Kwai, Rocky Valley Hot Spring and Fish Spa is your relaxation destination like no other.

First of all, you take a long tail boat ride to the spa.

Then you must try their facial treatment. You can try the natural mud face and body mask  – either the black mud or yellow mud (Burmese Tanaka Powder). (Or both because why not!)

After the facial, make your way to 15 different hot springs and soak your stresses away.

What sets Rock Valley Hot Springs apart is the infused hot pool. You can enjoy yourself in tea and coffee-infused heated pools. Use the coffee ground to scrub your body, or try the flower-infused pool where the water turns violet and red. (All have different benefits!)

The fun is at Fish Spa where you dip your feet into a pool of little fish that will help remove dead skin cells from your feet – warning, not suitable for those with ticklish tendencies!

Lastly, do not forget to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of nature!

18. Have a close encounter with an alien – Alien Rock @ Lam Khlong Ngu National Park

Don’t worry, there’s nothing to be scared of!

This ‘alien’ is an alien rock created entirely by the hand of nature – a limestone stalagmite transformed into something that looks like a creature from the movie “Alien”. Hence, its nickname “Alien Rock”.

Getting here is for a true adventurer only. Be ready to trek through the forest, crawl into a cave, climb up on a rock, jump off the rock into water, and float along the cave canal.

You won’t just see the Alien Rock, Lam Khlong Ngu National Park has many limestone cave systems to explore.

Tham Sao Hin is one of the many caves where you’ll find Thailand’s tallest limestone column within, measuring 62.5 metres in height!

Visiting caves in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park requires a local guide and the necessary equipment for cave exploration, and physical fitness!

If you love a good adventure and the wonder of nature, you will find it all at Lam Khlong Ngu National Park.

19. No camp like a Boho camp! – 3199 Mountain Camp

Want to camp in style?

You will need to go glamping at 3199 Mountain Camp where you’ll get to sleep under the stars in tents decorated in Bohemian style.

No need to worry about cooking your own food. A stay here comes with your very own BBQ set, as well as drinks and breakfast!

Make sure to pack your favourite Boho outfits to take plenty of photos. They even have props like an Indian headdress available! You can easily get hundreds of cool photos for Instagram here.

And if you’re tired of taking photos, you’ll be able to find quiet nooks around the property – where you’ll be able to enjoy a good book with an aromatic cup of coffee from their coffee shop.

At night, enjoy your BBQ party and cocktails with live folk music before heading off to sleep under the stars!

Staying at 3199 Mountain Camp will make you get close to nature without giving up the convenience of a luxury resort.

20. Watch the romantic sunset and explore Mon culture – Wooden Mon Bridge

Immerse yourself in a different world at Mon village, one of the remaining early Thai Tribes, in Sangkla Buri, the district of Kanchanaburi.

The most recognized landmark of Sangkla Buri is “Wooden Bong Bridge”, this 850 meter bridge is the longest wooden bridge in Thailand and second longest wooden bridge in the world. The bridge stretches across Songkalia river connecting two worlds together.

Meet Mon people dressing in traditional colorful clothing walking across the bridge. You might see some balancing many layers of tin on their head as they walk.  Or you might catch Mon children jumping off the bridge plunging to the river below to escape from the heat.

After exploring Mon village, stay for an incredible view of sunset

If you stay overnight, make sure you wake up before 6 am to witness the morning food offering to the monks at the village.

21. Step into history or an Oscar-winning film – Bridge Over the River Kwai

Walk on the bridge that inspired 1957 Oscar winning movie “The Bridge Over River Kwai” and reflect on the tragic history of WWII. Bridge Over the River Kwai is a major and most recognised landmark in Kanchanaburi.

Built by prisoners of war, this black iron bridge holds significant history as this is where approximately 16,000 prisoners had lost their lives during construction.

When you walk across the bridge, even though the sight of river and lush green is stunning, but you can’t help but feel the sadness that still lingers in such a sacred place.

Of course, when you’re at the bridge, don’t forget to duck into the cafes, restaurants and souvenier stalls around it! (You can still walk over the bridge even though trains cross it every day!)

If you visit Kanchanaburi in late November, make sure not to miss the week-long festival on River Kwai Bridge commemorating the Allied attack in 1945. A show of spectacular light and sound is the highlight of the festival every year.

22. It’s so immense that you have to see it to believe it – Giant Rain Tree

No words can describe how massive this tree is.

This Rain Tree is over 100 years old, is 20 meters tall, and its shade can cover an area almost half the size of a football field.

The trunk is so big, you’ll need at least 10 people with the arms stretched out to make a circle around it – and its roots are bigger than a person!

When you are under this tree, you’ll feel cool and calm – and as you look up to see all the massive branches spread out in all direction – you will be in awe of this magnificent specimen of nature.

23. Conquer the thrill of walking on ‘knife mountain’  – White Elephant Summit @ Thong Pha Phum National Park

If you’re a hardcore hiker, you’ll want to add Khao Chang Phueak to your bucket list.

At 1,249 meters high, “Khao Chang Phueak” which means “White Elephant Mountain”, is the third highest mountain in Kanchanaburi, and is part of Thong Pha Phum National Park.

The trail is 8 km long and it’ll take you around 4 hours to reach the base camp where you can set up an overnight tent.

To reach the summit, the park ranger will lead hikers to climb up at the same time for safety reasons.

The most thrilling aspect of hiking at Khao Chang Phueak, is walking in a single file through a narrow path on the mountain ridge. It’s so narrow, the hikers nicknamed it “Spine of the Knife Mountain”!

Your heart will pound as you walk and try your darnedest not to fall off the cliff, and as you finally conquer the summit, you’ll enjoy crazy views of the mountain valley accented with cottony drifting clouds.

Make sure to get up early to watch the sea of morning mist blanketing the mountain, it’s a sight not to miss!

PS: Advance registration for permit and overnight stay at the base camp are required.

24. Take a dip at spectacular – Erawan Waterfalls

Not just one spectacular fall, Erawan Waterfalls has 7 tiers of waterfalls with different shapes and beauty of its own.

The first two tiers are easy to get to. Once you’re at the 2nd tier, we guarantee you would already want to plunge into cool aqua pool.

This tier is nicknamed “Fish Palace”. You’ll see a school of huge fish in the water. They can be your swim mates.  If you don’t want to get wet, grab some food for a picnic and enjoy the cool breeze and mist from the water and forest.

The trail leading up to higher tiers is clearly marked, but less maintained and rockier as you go higher. But the bright side is lesser people the higher you go.

If you make it to the top tier at the 7th level, you can reward yourself by jumping into the cool and refreshing turquoise water set against big white boulders. If you look close enough, those boulders will look like Erawan, a mythical 3-headed white elephant in Hinduism. (It’s the namesake of these waterfalls!)

We recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowd. Just visit one or two tiers, unless you’re up for all 7!

25. Peaceful and soothing with a watery rock floor – Sai Yok Noi Waterfall

Also known as Namtok Khao Pung which means crumbled mountain, this waterfall is known for its peaceful ambience.

Water flows from the top of the mountain and falls down 15m creating a soothing mist, then flowing over the rocks where people are able to walk, before descending into a pool.

You can choose to soak at the base of the falls or climb to the top of the tiers where the water is cooler, and you get a bird’s eye view of the area. There’s also food stalls and restaurants nearby to fuel you up after the swim, such as pork satay and an assortment of dried fruit.

We’ve heard a fellow traveller say “Thank God I did not waterFALL down”, so do be careful when you’re standing on the watery rocky ledge!

PS: You can also rent fun inflatables to float on for 20 Baht!

26. Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? – The Fruit Hotel @ Baan Phasawan

If you are a fan of Spongebob (who lives inside a pineapple under sea), staying at Bahn Pasawan Resort will make you go bananas! (Or pineapple… excuse the puns. X.X)

This family-friendly and super whimsical resort has about 20 spacious guest houses crafted in shape of various fruits, vegetables, and plants.

There are many ‘fruits’ to choose from –durian, rambutan, pineapple, dragon fruit, and many more! If you come in a large group, you can also hold a meeting in a meeting bus.

This resort also functions as a nature conservatory and education center for adults and comes with a water park too! It’s super unique and a truly unusual place to have an unforgettable stay.

27. Visit a different planet – Mini Grand Canyon @ Pong Yup, Ratchaburi

Witness a natural phenomenon where the land has sunken down due to erosion over time.

What’s left is a 5 meter cliff that looks very much like a city wall with odd-looking earthen pillars.

You can even walk around on the bottom of this cliff in its maze-like formation of pillars.

It truly might make you feel you were in different planet

PS: Pong Yup is in Ratchaburi – about 1.5 hour drive from Kanchanaburi

28. Get bewitched by this beautiful cascading waterfall – Chatkaew Falls @ Huay Mae Kamin

Some claim Chatkaew Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.

Imagine an opening enveloped by big tree trunks and giant roots, with water flowing from ledge to ledge – all cascading down to merge into a huge torrent of water gushing down to the pool below.

You will be mesmerised by the ethereal beauty of this waterfall.

Chatkaew Falls is the 4th of 7th tier in Huay Mae Kamin waterfalls located in Srinakarin National Park. Fortunately, it’s on the same level as the car park so there’s no need to hike up to this paradise!

It’s very popular among Thais, but never too crowded.

If you want to chill and relax more, set up a tent and take your time to enjoy hiking to all the levels of the waterfalls – and watch the sunrise over the Srinakarin Dam nearby.

29. Admire stunning gothic architecture – Nativity of Our Lady Cathedral @ Samut Songkhram

No need to go to Europe to see a beautiful church. People say Nativity of Our Lady Cathedral is the most beautiful Catholic church in Thailand.

You will have to see it for yourself.

Decorated with colorful stained glass windows imported from France, the church was built in 1870 in French gothic style.

The interiors are even more amazing – don’t forget to look up and check out the beautiful ceiling! The church is on the river bank, it’s perfect place to quiet down and do a little spiritual reflection.

30. This forgotten village was recently discovered – Pilok Garden Hills @ Pilok Mine

If you’d like a quiet night in a rustic place, you will love spending time at Pilok. This quiet village is located deep in the mountain at the Thailand-Myanmar border.

During WWII, the town was booming with tin mining but when the mines were closed, the village was also forgotten – until recently discovered by travelers, especially the ones who seek off-the-beaten-path destinations.

You will find a raw charm at Pilok. Everything is still left untouched.

Have a romantic stay at one of the homestays in the area, and enjoy the cool temperature and peaceful view of the mountain.

Tip: Before you leave, write a note or a wish on a wooden tag and tie it to the bridge rail!

31. Get tasty street food – Historic Pak Prak Road

This historic short stretch of Pak Prak Road is lined up with rows of Chino Portuguese style buildings built during WWII – you can still see the beauty of the architecture through the deterioration of over 170 years.

To revitalise the area, Pak Prak community embraced its past and turned itself into a Heritage Walking Street – where you can visit old shops and hear the stories from people who live here.

When you need a coffee break, check out Sitthisang coffee shop. You surely won’t miss the bright mustard coloured building that’s been converted to a cool and homey coffee shop!

When night falls, the street really comes alive. It transforms into a walking street with hundreds of street vendors, artists selling their art, and street food stalls. It’s fun and romantic all at the same time.

The merchants here even get into a character as they sell vintage food and dessert which you’ll very rarely see elsewhere nowadays.

The community preserves its history and turns into a hip and chic destination full of memories waiting to be told – and visited!

Special mention 1: An awesome place for the entire family, the kids will go bonkers here – The Resort at Suanphueng

While not technically in Kanchanaburi, The Resort at Suanpheung is 1h 15mins drive away. If you’re looking for a little fun or you’re on a family vacay, this castle-like resort will make you feel all sorts of happy. But wait, do you want to know the best part?

It’s also a waterpark!! And it’s not like a little kids’ water playground, it’s an actual park with a variety of epic slides, so tons of laughter and fun is totally guaranteed at this stay!

They’ve created their own beach, so enjoy a cocktail in the sand and sun, and soak up that glorious water/seaside park feeling that you’d feel in a magic land.

There’s no better way to warm a heart, than with animals, and here you’ll find an animal farm, where you can feed alpacas if you so wish to, too!

You can either choose to spend the day, or the night, but this resort surely knows how to give you a great time.

Special mention 2: A history of candle-making with a shooting range and more! – Baan Hom Tian

Located 1 and a half hour from Kanchanaburi, Baan Hom Tian is a quirky place for a quick weekend vacation. (In Thai, “Baan” means Home, “Tian” means Candle, and “Hom” means Aroma!) Mr. Ratchanikorn Chimma, the owner is 43 years old, and started making candles for his friends 20 years ago.

This led to creating whimsical candles of different designs and they ended up being sold in places like Chatuchak Market and Khao San Road.

It started off as a candle shop, and has now expanded into a marvellous weekend destination with a shooting range and adventure tours available!

There’s interesting history and culture behind Baan Hom Tian with rare old collectibles such as toys, lamps, and other vintage accoutrement.

Make it a whimsical weekend adventure – why not!

Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, a romantic couple, or fun family – Kanchanaburi has something for everyone to enjoy.

We are shocked ourselves, and are very much in love with this spectacularly underrated destination!

Let us know what you’d most like to do here in the comments below!

Thanks to Klook for making this trip possible!

If you’d like to find out more about Klook, or check out the Private Car Charter for your own trip to Kanchanaburi – click here for more information!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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