The Japanese following their invasion of Thailand during World War II, brought British, Dutch, Australian and American prisoners to Thailand by the Southern route. Impressed labourers were also used to complete the rush construction of the railroad, which is an alternative to the sea route, to Rangoon via Singapore and the Strait of Malacca since the sea route was being closed in by Allied submarines and aircrafts.

Chong - Kai War Cemetery The Chong - Kai Cemetery is smaller but more peaceful than the one in town. It is also neatly arranged with all kinds of beautiful flowers planting, and hedged. It contains the remains of 1,750 prisoners of war. This place can be reached by boats which are available at the pier in front of the town gate and also from the agent at the Bridge.

Wat Tham Mangkornthong Situated about 4 kms from the provincial city on the bank of Mae Klong River. This place was once well known for the incredible performance of the nun floating
in the deep pool. Other magnificent is its temple located in the cave high up from the ground the two sides of the steps leading to the temple were carved in the form of dragon.

Somdet Phra Sri Nakharin Park Situated in Kanchanaburi Agriculture College, Tambon Nongya, about 9 kilometers from the provincial city. Usually well known to people as "Stone Garden" or "Stone Park" since most of it area scattered with stones fledged from the ground
in different size and shaped similar to animals.

Tham Khao Pun This cave is located about 1 kilometer from the Chong - Kai War Cemetery. There is a temple in front of the cave. Inside this cave housing many beautiful Buddha images
of different gestures which would make your climbing worthwhile. The stalactites and stalagmites are interesting too.

Jeath War Museum JEATH stands for Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland. The museum is a reconstructed p.o.w.s. (The prisoners of war in the second world
war during 1942 - 1943) thatched detention hut. Living quarters inside comprise raised bamboo bunks running the length of the long hut. One can see how each p.o.w. was alloted a scrimping living space on the bunks. On the walls of the huts are posted actual, enlarged photos and illustrations of the "atrocities" against the prisoners, and the severe living conditions of the p.o.w.s. The museum is on the bank of the Mae Klong River inside Wat (Monastery) Chai Chumphon. To reach the museum, turn left from the first intersection after entering Kanchanaburi town, coming from Bangkok. Turn left again to Pak Phraek Road at the waterfront, and follow the road to the left, until reaching the first big monastery, Wat Chai Chumphon, a monastery on the river bank. The JEATH War Museum is at the entrance of the monastery.

Ban Kao National Museum Built near the Neolithic burial site, Discovered by a Dutch p.o.w, while working on the Death Railway. The Museum is 35 kilometers out of town on a branch road off the Asian Highway. On display are specimens of Neolithic remains and utensils.

Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park Beyond the Ban Kao Neolithic Museum about 10 kms. up north, there is "Prasat Muang Singh" ruin, a historical park being renovated by the Fine Art Department to display the Khmer influenced architecture toward this part of Thailand some 700-800 years ago. The archoteoligists should never miss this site, as it is so interesting and yield quite perfect atmosphere for your study and relaxation within the green park. The entrant fee is Bt 20/person.

Kanchanaburi Culture Centre Built by the Thai Farmers Bank, the centre offers impressive collection of handicraft, artifacts and historical exhibits the set out the significant roles that the province had played in the nation's past. The centre is inside the compound of the Kanchanaburi Teacher's College, just outside the town Kanchanaburi-Saiyok Road at Tambon Naongbua, Amphoe Muang.

 go to top