Why Visit Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi is ridiculously popular mainly because of its proximity to Bangkok. I am not downplaying its connection to World War II and the natural endowment of the region but the number of visitors wouldn’t be the same if it weren’t such an easy-to-organize day trip.

This may sound like a reason NOT to visit Kanchanaburi. Perhaps dark history and natural parks are not your cup of tea.

But Kanchanaburi is also a small town with a clock that runs slow and a river that lulls the floating houses built on stilts along its banks. Come night, the townfolk fill the waterfront and the lively night markets. Isn’t being part of that just as appealing?

A visit to Kanchanaburi is rewarding in multiple ways. The sacrifice and power of the will of thousands of soldiers will humble you. Hot springs and brisk waterfalls will rejuvenate your body. You will enjoy a laid-back Thai town without traffic jams and noisy boulevards. And when it’s time to leave you will look back with an appreciation for life’s simple joys: freedom and peace.