KANCHANABURI ATTRACTIONS
Kanchanaburi Travel Guide: 10 Top Attractions and Local Experiences
Kanchanaburi will be one of your most memorable travel destinations. This province is famous for its dramatic wartime history, peaceful river scenery, waterfalls, national parks, caves, temples and mountain landscapes.
Located west of Bangkok, the city and province offer a very different experience from Thailand’s beach resorts and busy urban centres.
The main city of Kanchanaburi sits beside the River Kwai, surrounded by low hills, forests and quiet countryside. It is close enough to Bangkok for a day trip to see the main attractions, but would be a much better experience over two or three days.
You can explore the famous railway sites, visit waterfalls, take a boat trip, stay in a floating river raft hotel, and travel deeper into the province toward Sai Yok, Erawan or Hellfire Pass.
How To Get Around Kanchanaburi
How to get around
Best Places to Visit in Kanchanaburi
Wat Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchanarawthan is arguably Chiang Mai’s most iconic temple. Perched high on Doi Suthep mountain, Wat Doi Suthep can be reached by hiring a red songtheaw (taxi truck) up to the mountain.
Founded in 1383, this sacred site is a pilgrimage destination for Thai Buddhists and offers breathtaking views of the city below.
The temple complex is home to a golden chedi (stupa) that enshrines a relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most revered temples in Thailand.
The journey to the temple involves a climb up 306 steps, flanked by a stunning naga (serpent) balustrade, symbolizing the path to enlightenment.
This temple is very busy with Thai locals and tourists and is one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai. It is located 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai City on Doi (mountain) Suthep.
Lanna Folklife Museum
The Chiang Mai Lanna Folklife Museum is directly opposite Chiang Mai Historical Centre and Three King Monument on Prapokklao Road in the center of the old Chiang Mai city.
Top Things to Do in Kanchanaburi
The Night Bazaars of Chiang Mai
The Night Bazaar is a legendary shopping destination in Chiang Mai, especially popular among tourists. Open every evening, it is one of the most popular night markets in the city, attracting both locals and tourists.
Two of the largest shopping, dining and entertainment locations on Chang Klan Road are the Kalare Night Bazaar and Anusarn Markets.
Located on Chang Khlan Road, these sprawling street markets and bazaars comes to life every evening, offering everything from food, handicrafts and souvenirs to clothing and electronics.
This area is also dotted with restaurants and bars, perfect for relaxing after a shopping spree.
Located on Chang Khlan Road, Mueang Chiang Mai.
China Town and Flower Market
Chinatown in Chiang Mai has many street vendors and side malls to visit. You will find the flower market and transport hub at the end of the road next to the Ping river.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Kanchanaburi
Best options are by train or a flight to Chiang Mai. Bus services are also available but take over 10 hours travel time.
Trains to Chiang Mai operate from the new Krung Thep Aphiwat railway terminal located north of central Bangkok.
To reach Krung Thep Aphiwat, take the MRT Blue Line to Bang Sue station and follow the connecting walkway.
Flights to Chiang Mai can be from Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport, depending on which carrier you book.
See the Bangkok Transport Hubs article for more information
