From afar, where I once found shelter.

The further away, the more you realize.

How warm was the place you left behind?

Travelogue: Unveiling the Wonders of Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi

Kanchanaburi, Sangkhla Buri

April 5-9, 2016

Greetings! We embarked on an impromptu trip with a group of three women and one man. We had no plans, not even for accommodation. We simply boarded a vehicle and set off, with only a vague notion of our destination.

Note: For those who are too lazy to read, please scroll down to the end of the trip for a summary and budget.

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Page: Want To Travel

At noon on the 5th, the brother and sister of the author's friend sent them to Khon Kaen Railway Station. This is a very economical way to travel (I would like to thank the official main sponsor here). Before arriving at the railway station, there was a surprise. The car's engine was hot, and the problem was with the radiator. We had to stop the car on the side of the road and add water for a while before we could continue (almost there!).

And then we arrived. Wow! We're here. This is my first time riding a train. It's like a giant moving metal box. When I was a kid, we used to play a game where we'd hold hands and sing a popular song about a train going to Korat. The train would go "toot toot" and "chug chug chug." First things first, I had to book a ticket. A free ticket! Yes, you heard that right, a free ticket! Free things actually exist in this world. All I had to do was show my ID card to the officer to prove that I'm Thai, and that was it. I got my ticket.

Realizing I hadn't eaten lunch yet, I grabbed some crispy fried fish and a drink for 30 baht. After a short wait, our train arrived right on time. I was impressed from the start.

The train emits a louder than usual sound as it crosses the water. As a result, the "whoosh" sound is initially audible but fades away as other passengers stare curiously. Please forgive me; this is my first time riding a train. 5555+

The train journey was an exciting experience, but it is important to note that sitting on the right side during the day is not recommended due to the intense and unforgiving sunlight. Departing at 3:36 PM, the train arrived in Korat without a moment of sleep. At 7:00 PM, the train pulled into platform 4, and the passengers confidently disembarked, heading straight to the ticket counter for their onward journey to Hua Lamphong. However, they were met with a surprise: the earliest available train was not until 10:34 PM. Tickets were purchased at 100 baht each, and the passengers went out to find something to eat.

Just a few steps away, I came across this place. A shop near the train station selling bowls for 35 baht each. After finishing my meal, I couldn't resist the bright lights of 7-Eleven, so I had to stop by.

The result is 27 baht for sushi and 30 baht for Spy.

Don't worry if your battery runs out, because this is Thailand. The kind uncles and aunties there will let you charge your phone. (Thank you very much!)

After the aunt left, the author and her friends quickly went to wait for the train on another platform. The train at this station was extremely slow and was delayed for a long time. They stood and waited until they were numb with cold. Finally, the train arrived. When the train stopped at the platform, they had to run to find their own carriage, which was written on their tickets. They were both tired and excited. The first feeling when they stepped onto the carriage was "Wow! Oh my god! Surprise (please use a high voice)! Surprise again... I don't know how to be excited anymore. This legendary trip is like we didn't buy tickets, but just asked to get on. Imagine this: (draw out the sound) Four teenagers, with very good looks, carrying backpacks and luggage, walked through the narrow aisle of the train, which was crowded with people, to find a place to sit down, hoping to relieve the fatigue from traveling for many hours and to use it as a place to sleep tonight. They walked from carriage 3 to almost the last carriage, passing carriage after carriage without finding a seat. How could there be so many people? They had to go back and sit between the connecting carriages of the train.

The area is a sink.

Driven by poverty, many people on this train have had to travel far from home in search of work.

I don't know who to feel sorry for first, myself, my grandfather, or my fellow sufferers.

The journey ahead is a daunting one, akin to a seven-hour battle in a war-torn world. With no seats available, we are forced to sit and sleep in the aisle, much to the chagrin of the vendors who have to navigate around us. Their complaints, though understandable, are met with a sense of无奈. After all, we have nowhere else to go. On this train, we also encounter two engineering students who are headed to Kanchanaburi to face the same fate.

A grueling 7-hour journey felt like a battlefield. My body was incredibly stiff, like seriously stiff. At 5 am, the train arrived at Hua Lamphong Station. We then took a tuk-tuk with a kind uncle who drove us to Thon Buri Station for 50 baht each. This is a heartwarming story that I can't help but share. My boyfriend dropped some money, and the tuk-tuk driver (from Roi Et) returned it to us at the ticket booth. Someone else might have pocketed the money and driven away, but not this uncle. Even though the amount wasn't significant, I truly admire his honesty. (Thank you so much for reminding me that good people still exist.)

After presenting their ID cards to receive free tickets, they went to take a shower at the train market, which costs 10 baht per person. They also bought rice for 45 baht and sat down to eat while waiting for the train.

The sun began to rise at 7:50 AM, and our train arrived. There were quite a few people on board, considering it was a special sightseeing train traveling along the Death Railway, a route renowned for its scenic beauty and surrounded by rivers and mountains.

Million Dollar View

And then we reached the bridge over the River Kwai, but we didn't get off, just passed by. This is another exciting landmark in Kanchanaburi.

Next is the Death Railway.

Upon reaching the final station, we had to take a shared taxi for 20 baht each to reach the bus stop. Oh my god! I thought we had arrived in Sangkhla Buri, but no! Another 200 kilometers to go. Oh no! This is not just far, it's incredibly far. We waited for the bus for ages, but as soon as we went to buy some rice with basil from 7-Eleven, the bus arrived. The rice with basil was surprisingly cold, but at least it hadn't frozen (it tasted terrible, but I ate it anyway). We quickly jumped on the bus, which cost 130 baht.

*******Parked the car at a small restaurant and took the opportunity to charge the phone. The shopkeeper charged 10 baht. Let me tell you, the car was parked for a very, very, very long time. When we continued, there were some uphill and downhill sections. After a 2-day and 1-night journey, we finally arrived in Sangkhla Buri. We took a motorcycle taxi to find accommodation and ended up at P Guest House Resort. We split the cost, each paying 1,000 baht for 4 people. We rented 2 motorcycles, 200 baht each, with a 200 baht deposit. We booked two rooms, 300 baht each for 2 nights, with a fan and shared bathroom. We paid an additional 500 baht deposit. I must say, the resort owner was very kind.

Affordable accommodation with million-dollar views, offering a breathtaking view of the Mon Bridge within close proximity.

After placing our bags down, we didn't bother changing our clothes. Our goal was the water, and it was time to play! We rented life jackets for 20 baht each, but the kind resort owner gave us a discount, charging only 120 baht for two boats and life jackets for four people. We just had to launch the boats ourselves and put them away when we were done. No problem, we said.

Upon reaching the pier, we were exhausted! After helping to drag the boat into the water, we jumped in for a swim. After playing to our heart's content, we had to climb back onto the boat and paddle out onto the vast surface of the Songkhla River.

The journey is challenging, with unpredictable currents and deep waters. If the boat capsizes, survival is unlikely.

There it is, the bridge. It's a bridge, you have to paddle to get there. Oh no!

Despite the hardship and fear of capsizing, they persevered and rowed to the bottom of the Mon Bridge.

As darkness enveloped the surroundings, I reluctantly steered the boat back to shore. After securing the vessel, I took a refreshing bath and ventured out in search of sustenance.

A Taste of Sangkhlaburi: Skewered Pork at 1 Baht a Stick

This sentence describes a street food vendor in Sangkhlaburi, Thailand, selling skewered pork for 1 baht a stick. The informal tone and playful language suggest a personal recommendation, inviting the reader to try this local delicacy.

A hundred skewers dipped in a delicious sauce, accompanied by two bottles of Chang beer, Coke, a plate of fūmūl, roti, 7-Eleven sausages, sunflower seeds, and mangoes. Afterwards, a motorcycle ride to enjoy the evening atmosphere of the Mon Bridge. Lying down and letting time pass slowly can also be relaxing, especially since there aren't many people around at night.

Returning late, I stopped by 7-Eleven and picked up two more bottles, along with conditioner and soap. Four of us used it together, and it still wasn't finished by the time we left.

Day 3

Before embarking on our adventure, the ever-so-kind resort owner, our old friend, provided us with a map and helpful advice. To fuel our journey, he generously offered each of us a banana.

A young woman riding a motorcycle without a helmet was stopped at a police checkpoint. When asked for her helmet, she claimed that she had rented the motorcycle and was not provided with one. The police officer then asked where she had rented the motorcycle, to which she confidently replied, "P Guest House." The officer instructed her to check under the seat of the motorcycle. Upon doing so, she discovered a helmet hidden there. The officer then allowed her to proceed after she put on the helmet and posed for a photo.

The scorching sun beat down as we set off for our first destination of the day: Takhian Thong Waterfall.

A considerable distance after turning, there were no signs whatsoever along the way.

The entrance fee is 20 baht per person and 20 baht per car, for a total of 120 baht. Please note that food and drinks are not available for purchase inside.

Upon seeing the sign, walk another 500 meters or so. You will begin to hear the sound of water.

Swimming is not recommended at this waterfall due to the abundance of rocks and the lack of suitable swimming areas.

I was so hungry, I couldn't take it anymore. I teleported out to find some food. I went to one restaurant, but it was closed. Finally, I ended up at this restaurant. The food was a bit greasy, but it was good.

Four plates of rice for 185 baht + water for 45 baht. For a delicious meal, please continue to the Three Pagodas Pass.

This area offers a wide variety of duty-free goods. A must-buy item is the fragrant Thanaka powder, a local favorite.

The aroma of coffee wafted from a nearby cafe, tempting passersby with its irresistible fragrance. (Note: I did not enter the cafe.)

Upon arrival, we were eager to explore neighboring countries. We contacted the owner of the shop where we purchased flour, who offered tours for 200 baht for four destinations and 300 baht for six destinations. We readily paid 200 baht each and were joined by a driver and a male tour guide. We provided our identification cards for temporary border crossing documents and signed our names and phone numbers. With the formalities completed, we embarked on a comfortable journey through the Burmese city, capturing photos along the way. However, we were advised to avoid photographing any military personnel.

Our tour guide was incredibly annoying. Upon entering the Sao Roi Ton Temple, she pointed at the prayer beads (which were given to us by the head monk along with a donation) and asked me what they were. I replied, "Prayer beads. Don't you know?" Well, no... I was actually asking what they were called here. Then, she pointed at a structure with stairs leading up to a roof and asked me what it was. I said, "It's a roof. Don't you know?" Sigh... Thanks.

As I exited, a young boy approached and arranged my shoes, for which I offered a customary tip. I then boarded the vehicle and proceeded to the city wall.

The accelerator was pressed down further.

A young Burmese girl sells flowers.

Then go to the Burmese market.

The local market scene is not much different from the rural markets in our country. Some products are even imported from Thailand.

This is a money exchange booth in the market. Look at how the bills are stacked in piles.

Before returning, we must stop by duty-free. What is it? It's a tax-free liquor store. We lifted it back and then we returned to Thailand safely. The guide's name is Natt, which I found out while we were at the market. She may be a bit annoying, but her information is as good as anyone's. You can say hello to her; she's in the middle tent.

On the way back, be sure to experience the Songkharia River. Inner tubes are available for rent for 10 or 20 baht, depending on size.

As the sun sets, it's time to return the car. Before returning it, fill the tank with petrol as before and head back to the resort to relax.

A coffee shop at the entrance of the resort

After a hearty meal of rice and fish, we gathered on the balcony to soak in the evening atmosphere. The twinkling lights were simply enchanting.

Day 4

On the last day, I woke up early (thanks to my friend's wake-up call) and rushed to take a shower and get dressed. I was determined to go alms-giving and take pictures of the Mon Bridge at sunrise. I grabbed my camera and hailed a motorbike taxi. I crossed the bridge and reached the Mon side, but surprise! My camera battery! Where did it go? Oh, I left it in the room. I didn't give up, though. I went back to get the battery and checked out, then returned to the Mon Bridge (I got my 500 baht deposit back). Even though I didn't see the sunrise, I was still determined to take pictures.

Oh....

The urge to send myself a postcard has arrived...

Green tea from the shop in front of the Mon Bridge is suitable for those who do not like too much sweetness. (But I want to eat sweet!)

After finishing our meal, we bid farewell and departed. Please convey our gratitude to the owner of the resort, who was wearing a white shirt.

A motorbike taxi ride cost 20 baht each to reach the van stand next to the 7-Eleven market. The van fare was 175 baht.

Upon reaching Kanchanaburi city, we parted ways with two of our friends who opted to return by tour bus. The author and another friend, however, decided to return by train as before. We hired a local songthaew to take us to the station, paying 50 baht each.

And as always, there are free trains to ride.

Time flies like an arrow. I arrived at Thon Buri Railway Station and bought a Pepsi to quench my thirst in the scorching heat. I asked the shop owner, an elderly lady, for directions to Hua Lamphong. She told me to take a red bus to Lotus and then transfer to bus number 40 to reach Hua Lamphong. She emphasized that I should not cross the street after getting off the red bus at Lotus and board bus number 40 directly. Initially, I planned to take a tuk-tuk parked in the queue nearby, but wow, it was ridiculously expensive, costing 150 baht per person. Oh my, no way! A red bus arrived, and I hopped on it. It was a bargain at only 7 baht per person. As soon as the bus stopped at Lotus, I rushed to board bus number 40. However, the bus conductor told me that I had to cross the street to board the bus from the other side because it would save time and avoid a long detour. Oh, thank you. I almost missed my chance. After crossing the street, I finally boarded the correct bus. The fare was 15 baht per person. When I arrived at Hua Lamphong, I saved even more money. Was the train free?

Having booked the tickets, I quickly walked into KFC. The air conditioning was the main attraction. After finishing my meal, I walked out. An old man was walking and playing with his phone when he bumped into my friend. He even had the audacity to scold my friend. What's wrong with him? He's already quite old. Oh well, and now my battery is dead. Hmm... what should I do?

"Excuse me, could I please charge my phone with you for 20 minutes? I would greatly appreciate it. After the incident with the man who bumped into my friend, she doesn't trust anyone anymore and has been holding her phone the entire time it's been charging."

After a considerable wait, the train finally arrived at the original platform. Passengers were then able to board and return home safely.

Trip Summary

Every journey holds memories, even amidst challenges. Every experience has two sides, and it's our choice which side to focus on. While this trip involved the hardship of sleepless nights on the train, it also brought new experiences and joy. The people we met along the way taught us valuable lessons.

Total expenses

Day 1

The bus fare from Nakhon Phanom to Kalasin is 167 baht.

Rice and water for 30 baht.

Free train ride from Khon Kaen to Korat! 0 Baht

The train from Nakhon Ratchasima to Hua Lamphong costs 100 baht.

Yellow noodles in Tom Yum soup - 35 Baht

Sushi 27 baht

Water 14 baht

Day 2

Tuk-tuk, 50 baht.

Shower 10 baht

Rice and water: 45 baht

Free train ride from Thon Buri to Kanchanaburi! 0 Baht

20 baht for a shared taxi.

7-Eleven's Pad Kra Pao for 35 baht.

Bus fare to Sangkhla Buri is 130 baht.

Motorcycle taxi to the accommodation for 20 baht.

Each person contributed 1,000 baht to a central fund. At the end of the trip, each person received 195 baht back, resulting in a total loss of 805 baht.

Day 3

Strawberry smoothie 45 baht

Burmese flour 50 baht

Leo 20 baht

Burmese beer for 20 baht

Burmese Pepsi for 10 baht.

Hoegaarden beer, 60 Myanmar kyats

The cost of crossing into Burma is shared equally with the central fund of 100 baht.

Donation to Wat Sao Roi Ton: 20 Baht

10 Baht Shoe Trip for Kids

Tamarind with chili and salt at the Burmese market for 20 baht.

Day 4

Motorcycle fare to the Mon Bridge is 15 baht.

Hill tribe costume 220 baht

Send a postcard for 25 baht.

Green tea 45 baht

Stir-fried rice with Mon Bridge sauce 30 baht

Motorcycle taxi to the van queue 20 baht.

The van fare is 175 baht.

The round trip fare for a songthaew to the train station is 50 baht.

Free train ride from Kanchanaburi to Thon Buri! 0 Baht

The red car goes to Lotus for 7 baht.

The bus to Hua Lamphong costs 15 baht.

Free train from Hua Lamphong to Khon Kaen! 0 Baht

KFC 101 Baht

***** Funds from the central budget *****

- This money covers the cost of food, drinks, motorcycle fuel, accommodation, motorcycle rental, entrance fees to the waterfall, border crossing to Burma, and other miscellaneous expenses, totaling 805 baht per person initially.

Note

- The total cost of the trip was 2,531 baht.