The River Kwai - Kanchanaburi Travel Guide
The River Kwai - Kanchanaburi Travel Guide
Kanchanaburi is the largest of the western provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Tak, Uthai Thani, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom and Ratchaburi. Kanchanaburi city, the capital of Kanchanaburi Province, is a popular resort town and has become a major tourist destination with attractions which offer an intriguing experience for both first-time and repeat visitors by its long history and ancient civilizations, a location of the Bridge over the River Kwai as it is known internationally and scene of the historic World War II. The province is also famous for its natural attractions such as forests, mountains, caves and waterfalls. The district covers the source valleys of the rivers River Kwai Yai and River Kwai Noi ("River Kwai"), which merge at the city Kanchanaburi and form the Mae Klong River there. As a result of these major rivers and three of Thailand's largest reservoirs, Kanchanaburi features several of Thailand's largest waterfalls as well as a number of wildlife sanctuaries. Several National Parks are located in the forests of the mountain area of the province - the Erawan, Sai Yok, Khao Laem, Khaoen Sri Nakarin and Chaloem Rattanakosin National Parks are located in the province. The Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary in this province is also listed in the UNESCO world heritage list.
The province is most famous for the Bridge over the River Kwai, which was built next to the town of Kanchanaburi crossing the Mae Klong river. This bridge was first built as a part of the railway between Thailand and Burma in 1942.The Death Railway ran all the way from the River Kwai valley up to the Three Pagodas Pass, a break in the Thanon Thongchai Mountain Range that divides Thailand and Myanmar. Nearby the reconstructed bridge are monuments including an Allied War Cemetery and a war museum. The River Kwai is a river in western of Thailand. It flows for about 380 kilometres through Sangkhla Buri, Si Sawat, and Mueang Districts of Kanchanaburi Province.
River Kwai Bridge Week held every year around the end of November until the beginning of December to commemorate the significance of the Death Railway and the Bridge over the River Kwai taking place in World War II. Visitors can see the historical and archaeological exhibition, folk performances, booths of products, entertaining activities, and light and sound show
In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has been prospering for a number of years. Important industries include sugar, agricultural products, and jewelry. Tourism is also a main source of income for the locals, though most are engaged in agricultural activities. The province's population is made up of Thai, Mon, and Karen peoples, most of whom are rural dwellers who enjoy living simply and respecting nature. Moreover, folk music and dances dating back at least 500 years are still performed to this day.
Only two hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is accessible by road or rail, the latter of which includes sightseeing day trips that run on weekends and public holidays; these weekend special trains are reasonably priced and make hassle free and enjoyable adventures. Even the climate of Kanchanaburi, cooled by the altitude, forests, and rivers, is a welcome respite from the heat and congestion of the nearby capital city.
The town itself is a place to relax, watching the water from the banks of the river, inside a raft house, or from a riverside restaurant. Many visitors like to rest along the river with a cold drink and a good book. Many of them come here just for a couple days but stay for weeks in order to explore all of the attractions in the surrounding countryside. Along with visiting spectacular waterfalls, lush forests, and three of Thailand's largest reservoirs, white water rafting, elephant trekking, and golfing are popular activities for visitors. Kanchanaburi is an excellent tourist destination for nature lovers. Bali Villas: Easy Comfort And Fun Galore Guide To Choosing Bali Villas From the Desk of London's Renovation Maven Celebrity Look-a-like In Uggs-Celebrity evening Dresses From the Desk of London's Renovation Maven Enjoy Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar Private Tour Available-travel.com Egypt Go to Crescent Head to get away from the madding holiday crowds The Paris Wife A Novel by Paula McLain Oahu Air Helicopter Tours Traveling information to Nassau Bahamas. From historical past to the modern traveling hints Hotel Minos Beach 5 star lodge for art fanatics Enjoy Giza Pyramids and Sphinx with Camel ride Private Tour Available-travel Egypt The Must See Highlights during the Bhutan Tour