Kanchanaburi Out-Of-City Attractions

ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK

Thailand has over 100 national parks. and the most visited of them all is Erawan. An hour and a half drive northwest of Kanchanaburi. Flocks of seven-tiered waterfall that gives the 550 square kilometre park its name. The top level of the falls is thought to resemble a three-headed elephant, called "Erawan" in Thai, that is ridden by Indra in Hindu mythology. With milky turquoise waters tumbling over various cascades, the falls are wonderfully photogenic and thought by many to be Thailand's most beautiful. Several of the pools below the falls are ideal for bathing in, especially level two, and they are much less crowded on weekdays. About 10 km. beyond the park headquarters is Tham Pludthat a large cave adorned with beautiful stalactites.

SRINAGARINDRA NATIONAL PARK

Located just north of Erawan National Park, this park covers over 1,500 square kilometres. Since it is more if difficult to get to than Erman. it is less frequently visited, but nonetheless has some very special attractions, including Namtok Huai Mae Khamin, which also has seven levels and is a close contender to Namtok Eraawn for sheer beauty. As at Erawan, the water is generally a lovely pale green, but here it runs over caramel-coloured rockface, and there is a superb viewing spot directly in front. The easiest way to get to the falls is by a two-hour boat journey across the Srinagarindra Reservoir.

BO PHLOI

Located 40 kin. nosh of Kanchanaburi, the small village of Bo Phloi has a Jewellery Handicraft Centre, where blue sapphires mined locally are fashioned into beautiful zings and pendants.

KANCHANABURI SAFARI PARK

Just near Bo Phloi village, this safari park has a diverse collection of large African and Asian mammals, such as lions. tigers, bears, giraffes and zebras.It is open from 900-1800.

CHALOEM RATTANAKOSIN NATIONAL PARK

This tiny national park, situated just under 100 km. north of Kanchanaburi, covering just 59 square kilometres, but has two large caves and several waterfalls connected by a trail that begins at the visitor centre.

PRASAT MUEANG SING HISTORICAL PARK

Built around the end of the twelfth century, this place was once the westernmost outpost of the Khmer Empire, strategically located on the banks of Kwai Noi River 43 km. west of Kanchanaburt. The shrine complex at the heart of the site has been restored to give an idea of the structure's original size.

RAIL JOURNEY TO THE WATERFALL

One of the best ways to see the countryside around town is to take the two-hour journey by train from Kanchanaburi to the waterfall which operates three times a day. The train stops regularly at attractive village stations, and the views from the left side are particularly impressive as the route passes through steep gorges and round sheer cliff faces. The most popular attraction is Namtok Sat Yok Noi, located a few kilometres north of town, but boat operators also offer trips up and down the river before the train returns.

BOAT TRIPS

Another relaxing way to enjoy Kanchanaburi's surroundings is to take a raft trip, which typically includes several of the nearby attractions, a leisurely lunch, and overnight stay on the raft. For those with less time to spare, long-tail boats can be hired to visit a variety of riverside places.

SANGKHLA BURI

This small town which lies 224 km. northwest of Kanchanaburi and near to the Myanmar border is home to an ethnic mix of Thais, Mons and Karens. It sits at the north end of the Khao Laem Reservoir, a huge expanse of water that stretches over 70 km. south. Due to its remoteness It receives few visitors, but those who make it here can enjoy relaxing boat trips around the reservoir.

Three Pagodas Pass

This border crossing point between Thailand and Myanmar is named after along part of the railway's three small but historically gesture of peace between these frequently warring neighbours. The pass is about 1,400 metres above sea level, and a often rutted in mist.

Kanchanaburi Hotels And Resorts

Kanchanaburi Out-Of-City Attractions