Falling in love with "Thong Pha Phum" in the drizzling rainy season, stop by U&ME COFFEE for a refreshing bingsu.


Travelers and foodies often go hand in hand. During the rainy season, some people say they are too lazy to travel anywhere because it is too wet. However, there are many holidays. Why stay at home and do nothing? Come out and experience the green nature in the rainy season. You will find that nature in the rainy season is more beautiful than you have ever seen. Our destination for this trip is the city of mountains and rivers, "Thong Pha Phum".


Many people, including our travel companions, asked us, "What is there to do in Thong Pha Phum?" Why not try going to Pilok or Sangkhla Buri? It should be more beautiful." We replied that we only had 2 days and 1 night, and we wanted to spend time surrounded by nature without having to travel far. Just the city center of Thong Pha Phum was enough. This review is for those who love to travel. We have found the answer to why you should visit Thong Pha Phum. We also have recommendations for cafes along the way and a review of "Falling in love with Thong Pha Phum in the rainy season, stopping by U&ME COFFEE for a refreshing bingsu."

Transportation

Alternative Route to Thong Pha Phum District

This passage describes an alternative route to Thong Pha Phum District in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. It highlights the use of Highway 346 (Rangsit - Phanom Thuan) as a less-traveled option compared to the more familiar route via Borommaratchachonnani Road.

The journey begins in Pathum Thani or Bang Bua Thong, heading towards the Lat Lum Kaew Interchange. From there, it continues through Bang Len and Kamphaeng Saen districts before reaching Phanom Thuan. At this point, a left turn onto Highway 324 (U Thong - Kanchanaburi) is taken, following the "Kanchanaburi" sign.

After reaching the Wang Saraphi intersection, a right turn leads onto Highway 367 (Kanchanaburi Bypass Road). The route then continues to the Kaeng Sien intersection, where Highway 323 takes travelers towards "Sai Yok Thong Pha Phum." The total distance from Kanchanaburi town to Thong Pha Phum District is approximately 145 kilometers.

U&ME COFFEE



Embark on your journey by finding a cozy cafe with delicious food to tantalize your taste buds. Kanchanaburi is now home to a plethora of newly opened cafes. As both a travel enthusiast and a cafe connoisseur, I couldn't resist seeking out a stylish and inviting cafe on Highway 324 (U Thong - Kanchanaburi) to share with you. This particular cafe deserves a review because I was thoroughly impressed by its ambiance, service, and delectable menu. I stopped by to refuel my car, but ended up leaving with a full stomach.

U&ME COFFEE is a loft-style cafe with exposed concrete that exudes warmth. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by adorable teddy bears perched in various corners of the cafe, alongside an art gallery and lush greenery. The ambiance, both indoors and outdoors, is inviting from every angle. Photography enthusiasts won't need to bring their own props, as the cafe provides a plethora of stylish photo props to enhance your shots. The warm atmosphere is further enhanced by the exceptional service, which is on par with first-class. The owner, a handsome flight attendant, welcomes and prepares delectable dishes for patrons during his time off from his busy flight schedule. (I only caught a glimpse of him, so you'll have to visit in person to meet him!)

Indoor Zone Atmosphere


Outdoor Zone Atmosphere


Let's take a look at the restaurant's menu.

To start, cool down with a refreshing drink. Choose from a variety of iced teas, coffees, and fruit smoothies. Then, satisfy your hunger with one of our recommended dishes. Try the spicy seafood spaghetti, the BBQ-glazed pork ribs, the classic fried egg breakfast, or the tuna salad. All dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables grown by the restaurant itself, guaranteeing freshness, deliciousness, and no harmful chemicals. While you wait for your food, enjoy some cheese balls as a light snack.



( Cheese Balls Menu )


( Spicy Seafood Spaghetti )


( Menu: BBQ Pork Ribs )


( Egg in a pan menu )


( Tuna Salad Menu )


After a savory meal, you must end with something sweet. There are many homemade desserts to choose from. I recommend the Very Strawberry Bingsu with its juicy sweet strawberries and the Honey Toast. If you come during the durian season, you can also try the Durian Bingsu. Overall, it's amazing.

( Very Strawberry Bingsu Menu )


( Chocolate Honey Toast Menu )


After that, my friends started nudging me, asking if we would make it to Thong Pha Phum. Haha! In any case, U&ME COFFEE is another café worth recommending and telling others about. Even though I'm not a food critic, I still want to invite you to try their delicious and affordable food. If you have the chance to visit Kanchanaburi, you should definitely give it a try.


Coordinates: Located at PT gas station on Highway 324 (U Thong - Kanchanaburi), inbound lane to Kanchanaburi City, Tung Samo Subdistrict, Phanom Thuan District

Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Phone: 082-388-7711

FACEBOOK: U&ME COFFEE



What's to love about "Thong Pha Phum"?


Thong Pha Phum: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains

Thong Pha Phum, a small town nestled amidst mountains and rivers, is often overlooked by travelers. While many pass through on their way to Pilok or Sangkhla Buri, those who take the time to explore will discover a hidden gem.

During the rainy season, clouds and mist descend upon the town, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This picturesque landscape is a testament to the beauty of Thong Pha Phum, a place that deserves to be more than just a stopover.

By immersing yourself in the town's charm, you'll understand why so many fall in love with its unique atmosphere.


Morning Alms Offering

Luang Pu Sai Suspension Bridge, Wat Tha Khanun


Kanchanaburi is a city of rivers, so we will see ancient suspension bridges located in many villages. It is a way of life for people to walk across the river to travel to the other side of the city. We asked the villagers and learned that in the morning, monks from Wat Tha Khanun will walk across the Luang Pu Sai suspension bridge to receive alms on the market side. So we went to wait at the temple to offer alms at around 5:45 AM.



Wat Tha Khanun

A Spiritual Haven for Diverse Communities

This significant temple serves as a spiritual center for Thai people of Mon, Burmese, and Karen descent residing in Thong Pha Phum and neighboring areas. Locally known as "Wat Luang Pu Sai," the temple sits on the banks of the Khwae Noi River. Atop a towering hill stands the majestic "Phra Phutthachettiyakhiri" pagoda, accessible to visitors for worship. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Thong Pha Phum, encompassing its entirety.


Early Morning Market at Thong Pha Phum

The Morning Market: A Delightful Start to the Day

The morning market bustles with life as vendors set up their stalls and eager customers arrive. The air is filled with the sounds of chatter and the aroma of freshly cooked food. Nestled amidst stunning natural scenery, the Thong Pha Phum morning market offers a unique shopping experience. With rolling hills and mist-shrouded mountains as a backdrop, it feels like strolling through a cool, natural air-conditioned haven. As you browse the stalls, indulge in a steaming hot skewer of grilled pork and sip on a warm cup of tea – a truly delightful way to start your day.




Scenic Viewpoint of the River Kwai

Suan Chalermprakiet Rama IX Park


The scenic viewpoint by the River Kwai is located about 200 meters from the Thong Pha Phum market. It is the headwaters of the dam. In some sections, the water is as blue as a blue lagoon. The atmosphere is beautiful, with people playing in the water and relaxing.

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Vachiralongkorn Dam


Originally named "Khao Laem Dam," this large and significant dam is another major landmark in Kanchanaburi, located approximately 5 kilometers north of Thong Pha Phum town. The dam boasts stunning scenery, with a scenic drive along its crest offering breathtaking panoramic views of the vast expanse of water stretching as far as the eye can see. Therefore, a visit to Thong Pha Phum is incomplete without a stop at this remarkable dam.



Area above the Wachiralongkorn Dam

After exploring the dam crest, we recommend continuing to the area above the dam. To do so, exit through the main entrance gate of the dam and drive straight up the same road that leads to Pilok. The distance from the dam is approximately 4 kilometers. You will see the water area above the dam and fish cages. Find a way in and you will be able to experience this kind of atmosphere. Grab your phone and play the song "Vacation Time" to set the mood. It's perfect!


Concrete Bridge, Thong Pha Phum



Concrete Bridge, Thong Pha Phum


Before entering Thong Pha Phum town, you will have to cross this bridge, a bridge over the Mae Nam Khwae Noi River. Look at the view in front of you! You have to say wow!! It's really beautiful. Local people will see this kind of atmosphere almost every day in the morning. And there will be more fog after the rain. But if you want to park your car and take pictures, please be careful of the cars. Find a safe place to park your car and stand on the sidewalk by the bridge to take pictures.





Taste mangosteen, durian, and rambutan

Fresh from the garden

Pha Pluak's Golden Mangosteen: A Delightful Treat

Pha Pluak's golden mangosteen is renowned for its crisp texture, sweet flavor, and low moisture content. This unique fruit is a highly anticipated treat for many, especially during the May-June season when it is harvested. During this time, Pha Pluak transforms into a vibrant marketplace, with golden mangosteens displayed prominently throughout the area.

Experience the irresistible taste of Pha Pluak's golden mangosteen and discover a truly delightful treat.



In addition to the golden rambutan of Phabhum, there is another fruit highlight that everyone says is as delicious as anywhere else. That is, the golden durian of Phabhum. Sweet, creamy, crispy, delicious. I had the opportunity to visit the garden and take pictures to share with you.




Mangosteen and durian have been appointed as the king and queen of fruits, but there is another rising star fruit that is becoming increasingly popular to grow in Thong Pha Phum, which is the Thong Pha Phum mangosteen. It is delicious, with sweet and juicy flesh.






This is just a glimpse of the tourist attractions in the heart of Thong Pha Phum. There are many more places to visit and plenty of places to eat. This small town is surrounded by beautiful and pristine nature. Wherever you turn, you will see the smiles of the people. It's no wonder we fell in love with this town, "Thong Pha Phum."






Baan Chan Kanchanaburi

#thong pha phum
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