Leave the bustling city of Bangkok behind for a full-day journey to Kanchanaburi, a province steeped in both history and natural beauty. This tour provides a moving glimpse into the legacy of the Death Railway while showcasing the lush landscapes of Erawan National Park.
Your day begins with a visit to the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai, a poignant symbol of courage and suffering during World War II. Built as part of a strategic railway to Burma, the bridge was constructed under brutal conditions by Allied prisoners of war, along with local laborers. Work that Japanese engineers expected to take at least five years was completed in just 16 months. The harsh reality of forced labor, malnutrition, illness, and mistreatment claimed the lives of more than 100,000 workers. Visiting the bridge is a powerful reminder of this difficult chapter in history.
From the bridge, embark on a short longtail boat ride along the river to the JEATH War Museum, taking in the scenic surroundings. The acronym JEATH stands for the primary nationalities involved in the construction of the railway: Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand, and Holland. This small museum displays original tools, photographs, and a bamboo hut replicating the shelters where prisoners lived. You can even see a dud bomb left from an Allied attempt to destroy the bridge.
After a reflective morning, we continue to Erawan National Park to immerse yourself in its stunning natural beauty. The park is home to the famous seven-tiered Erawan Falls, named after the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology. The emerald pools invite a refreshing swim, while a hike to the top of the falls rewards you with panoramic views over the lush jungle.
At the end of a full day of history and nature, relax on the journey back to Bangkok, where you’ll be dropped off at your original meeting point, taking with you memories of both the region’s breathtaking scenery and its remarkable story.
Important notes:
- The journey from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with an additional 1.5 hours from Kanchanaburi city to Erawan National Park. It’s a long day, but packed with fascinating history and stunning natural beauty, making every moment worthwhile.
Pick up/Meeting point:
We provide hotel pick-up only from accommodations located on/near Khao San Road and on Siam Square.
If you are not an actual guest at one of the hotels in our pick-up area, the designated meeting point will be our office on Chao Khamrop Road in Chinatown. Our office in Chinatown is just a short 5-minute walk from Wat Mangkon MRT (metro) station.
For the exact location of our WanderSiam office on Google Maps, please click HERE.
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58 Comments
5
Great guide make excellent experience
Excellent experience with Na. From the museum to the bridge and also with the Erawan waterfalls. Na also took great photos and knew all the best angles.
5
Fun Memories
Na was an amazing tour guide and she was a fantastic photographer by catching all the fun moments while in the water! I would recommend this to everyone.
5
Erawan falls and River Kwai
Very fun and enjoyable experience. Super friendly staff and guide. Waterfalls were very beautiful 😍❤️. Highly recommend
5
Great opportunity to see the countryside
Great opportunity to see something different and to get out of the city. The guide was very enthusiastic and eager to share her knowledge about the area. The company’s communication fot pick up arrangements was very good
5
A perfect nature and history escape from Bangkok
A mixed-activity day trip escape from Bangkok. I loved walking the bridge over the river kwai, climbing up and swimming in the various waterfalls. The boat ride, JEATH Museum and Dam stops were also great. My guide and driver were both lovely and so helpful throughout, I was very lucky to have them!