Hungry fish

Erawan waterfall, กาญจนบุรี

Erawan Falls in กาญจนบุรี is an enchanting natural wonder that captivates visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters cascading down seven distinct tiers. Each level of the waterfall offers a unique setting, from gentle pools perfect for wading to more powerful cascades that thunder into jade-coloured basins below. Surrounded by lush green forest, the falls create a serene atmosphere where the sound of water and birdsong weave together, making it an idyllic escape from the bustling city life.

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Hellfire Pass

Hell Fire Pass, กาญจนบุรี

Hellfire Pass is a deep and narrow cutting through hard rock located in the กาญจนบุรี province of Thailand, a site of profound historical significance related to the construction of the Thailand-Burma Railway during World War II. This railway was built by Allied prisoners of war and Asian labourers under brutal conditions imposed by the Japanese military, with Hellfire Pass representing one of the most arduous and deadly stretches of this 415-kilometre endeavour. The name ‘Hellfire Pass’ derives from the eerie sight at night when the faint light from oil lamps, combined with the reflection off the rock faces, appeared as flickering flames, creating a haunting atmosphere for those forced to work there under extreme duress.

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Jungle rafts

River Kwai Jungle Rafts, ไทรโยค

The River Kwai Jungle Rafts Floating Hotel offers a truly unique experience, blending immersive nature with gentle luxury in the heart of Thailand’s กาญจนบุรี province. Situated on a serene stretch of the river Kwai, the hotel is composed entirely of traditional wooden rafts anchored together, floating gently on the water’s surface. This proximity to nature allows guests to wake to the sounds of the jungle – chirping birds and rustling leaves – while surrounded by stunning river vistas and lush greenery, creating an atmosphere of tranquil seclusion rarely found in conventional accommodations.

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Death Railway

Death Railway, กาญจนบุรี

The Death Railway, also known as the Burma Railway or the Thai-Burma Railway, is a harrowing chapter in World War II history that illustrates both human suffering and resilience. Built between 1942 and 1943 by the Japanese Empire, the railway was intended to support their military campaign in Burma by connecting Thailand with Burma through dense jungle terrain. The project relied heavily on forced labour, including approximately 60,000 Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and over 200,000 Asian labourers, often referred to as ‘romusha‘. Faced with brutal conditions, malnutrition, disease, and physical abuse, thousands perished during the construction, hence the grim epithet ‘Death Railway‘.

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Sai Yok Noi

Sai Yok Noi waterfall, ไทรโยค

Sai Yok Noi waterfall, nestled within the lush greenery of Sai Yok National Park in กาญจนบุรี province, offers an enchanting escape into nature that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. The waterfall cascades gently over limestone cliffs into crystal-clear pools, creating a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the tropical jungle surroundings. The sound of flowing water, coupled with the vibrant flora, sets the perfect backdrop for anyone seeking respite from the busy pace of city life.

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The Bridge on the River Kwai

The Bridge on the River Kwai, กาญจนบุรี

The Bridge on the River Kwai is a historical landmark located in กาญจนบุรี, Thailand, and stands as a poignant reminder of the forced labour and suffering endured during World War II. It was part of the infamous Burma Railway, often referred to as the Death Railway, constructed by the Empire of Japan to support its forces in the Burma campaign. The railway was built using the brutal exploitation of prisoners of war and Asian labourers, who faced appalling conditions including disease, malnutrition, and extreme violence. The bridge itself became one of the most iconic symbols of the hardship and human cost of the railway’s creation.

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WW2 in Thailand

War Cemetery, กาญจนบุรี

The Western understanding of World War II’s Asian theatre often remains limited, with far more focus placed on European battles and events. This gap in knowledge means the profound experiences and complex roles of countries like Thailand during the war are frequently overlooked. Thailand’s position during this period was shaped by its geographical location and political pressures, which led to a unique wartime experience that had lasting implications for the country and the surrounding region.

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Three-headed elephant

Erawan Museum, กรุงเทพฯ

The Erawan Museum in กรุงเทพฯ is a remarkable cultural landmark, uniquely housed inside a colossal three-headed elephant sculpture, known as Erawan or Airavata from Hindu mythology. This impressive statue stands about 29 metres high and weighs roughly 250 tonnes, crafted from intricately attached copper plates that shimmer with detailed artistry. The elephant represents the mythical vehicle of the Hindu god Indra and is a powerful symbol in Thai culture, embodying harmony and balance through its three heads. The museum itself, located in the Samut Prakan area just outside central กรุงเทพฯ, was created by a visionary Thai businessman, Lek Viriyapant, who also developed other cultural sites like the Ancient City and Sanctuary of Truth.

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Only in Thailand

Museum Siam, กรุงเทพฯ

The Siam Museum in กรุงเทพฯ presents an engaging and interactive journey into Thai culture, history, and identity. Housed in an elegant 19th-century neoclassical building that once served as the Ministry of Commerce, the museum beautifully blends architectural heritage with modern exhibit technology. Visitors can expect to explore an array of thoughtfully curated displays that focus on what it truly means to be Thai, covering traditions, beliefs, and the evolution of Thai society from ancient times to the present day. The atmosphere is refreshingly hands-on, encouraging active engagement rather than passive observation.

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Golden Mount

Wat Saket (Golden Mount), กรุงเทพฯ

Wat Saket, often known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, is one of กรุงเทพฯ’s oldest and most unique temples, with roots tracing back to the พระนครศรีอยุธยา period before the 18th century. Originally called Wat Sakae, it underwent restoration and was renamed Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan by King Rama I when กรุงเทพฯ was established as the new capital, highlighting its importance in Thai royal and religious life. The temple sits just outside the old city of กรุงเทพฯ on a man-made hill, offering a distinct atmosphere from other temples located within the old city walls.

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