When mentioning the city of "Kanchanaburi", I would say that 80% of tourists immediately think of the Bridge over the River Kwai. The bridge has become the logo and selling point of Kanchanaburi. Around the beginning of December every year, there is the Bridge over the River Kwai Festival, which features a spectacular light and sound show at night.

When visiting Kanchanaburi, a trip to the Bridge over the River Kwai is a must-do to avoid any accusations of not having truly experienced the city. My first stop was to check in at the bridge to document my visit. It had been many years since my last visit to Kanchanaburi, and this time, the area surrounding the bridge, from the train station to the bridge itself, was bustling with souvenir shops.

The Thai text describes the historical significance of the Bridge over the River Kwai, highlighting its construction by Allied prisoners of war during World War II. The translation should convey the following key points:

1. Bridge's Importance:

• The Bridge over the River Kwai was a crucial part of the Death Railway, built by the Japanese military during World War II.
• Allied prisoners of war, including British, American, Australian, Dutch, and New Zealand soldiers, were forced to construct the railway.
• The bridge spanned the River Kwai, connecting Thailand and Burma.

2. Construction Challenges:

• The construction process was fraught with difficulties, including harsh wartime conditions, disease, and food shortages.
• Thousands of prisoners of war died during the construction.

3. Historical Significance:

• The bridge remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made by Allied prisoners of war.

The Bridge over the River Kwai, a pivotal component of the Death Railway constructed by the Japanese military during World War II, stands as a testament to the arduous labor of Allied prisoners of war. These soldiers, hailing from nations such as Britain, America, Australia, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, were compelled to build the railway, which included the bridge spanning the River Kwai and connecting Thailand to Burma. The construction was marred by numerous challenges, including the brutality of war, rampant disease, and severe food shortages, resulting in the tragic deaths of countless prisoners. The bridge serves as a stark reminder of the human toll exacted by war and the sacrifices endured by Allied prisoners of war.

From the bridge over the River Kwai, I headed towards the X2 River Kwai Resort, my accommodation for the night. Taking the route that would lead me to Dan Makham Tia Subdistrict, I passed by the Allied War Cemetery at Chong Kai. I decided to stop by for a visit.

This is my first visit to this cemetery, and I had no idea that Kanchanaburi had another cemetery besides the Allied War Cemetery at Don Rak, which is located opposite the Kanchanaburi Railway Station in the city center on the main road leading to the bridge over the River Kwai.

Allied War Cemetery at Chong Kai

The Allied War Cemetery at Chong Kai is the final resting place for approximately 1,740 Allied prisoners of war, primarily British soldiers. Originally, the site served as a large prisoner of war camp.

Due to its distance from major roads, the cemetery receives few visitors. The landscape of the Allied War Cemetery at Chong Kai is similar to that of the Allied War Cemetery at Don Rak, but on a smaller scale.

Following Google Maps' directions to X2 River Kwai Resort, I encountered a narrow road near the Agricultural College with no signage. After navigating this path for a while, I reached a railway crossing and decided to turn back due to the challenging terrain. Returning to the main road, I crossed another railway line and turned left at the entrance to Wat Wang Lan Temple. Continuing a short distance, X2 River Kwai Resort appeared on the right-hand side.

As the car turned into the resort, a smile spread across my face. The design of the place was exactly my style, making a great first impression.

The small building served as the first line of defense, resembling a train station. This building functioned as the resort's lobby, featuring a miniature train ticket booth for guest check-in and check-out. Wooden chairs reminiscent of a train station added to the ambiance. The initial impression was so captivating that I couldn't resist taking numerous photographs.

Soon, the staff brought Welcome Drinks and cool towels. The Welcome Drink was a butterfly pea flower lemonade, served in a clear, round bottle. The lemonade was incredibly sour, making me squint with its tartness.

Guests staying at this property will receive a Tea Set for each night of their stay. The Tea Set is available from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. If guests arrive after 5:00 PM, they can still enjoy the Tea Set during their check-out time. Guests can choose between two snacks: Toast or Waffle.

The room I stayed in was a Luxe Cabin, which is essentially a container-style room designed to fit the resort's concept. The use of black steel frames in the decor evokes the feeling of a bridge over the River Kwai.

The interior is surprisingly spacious. If you were blindfolded upon entering and only had your blindfold removed once inside, you wouldn't realize you were in a shipping container. The walls are lined with wood, effectively blocking out the heat typically associated with such structures. Interestingly, both side walls can be opened to reveal windows. A king-size bed graces the room, and at its foot rests a large sofa, perfectly positioned for enjoying the scenic views of the Kwai Noi River.

The wall at the end of the bed is a large sliding glass door, making the room feel spacious and airy. When the glass door is opened, there is a balcony where you can enjoy the view of the Mae Klong River. I must say that the atmosphere in the morning and evening is amazing. However, from late morning to late afternoon, it would be impossible to stand outside and enjoy the view because the sun is very strong.

The bedside table is designed for writing.

The two walls on either side of the headboard are equipped with various amenities. The left wall features a refrigerator, a safe, and a coffee maker, while the right wall provides a simple yet stylish clothes rack.

The central area is designated for the bathroom, which is further divided into three main sections. The central section features a sink that can accommodate two users simultaneously.

Behind the sink is a bathtub with a window that opens to a view of the back of the room.

The amenities are designed to resemble toothpaste tubes, and they smell wonderful.

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Coffee is available for free. Minibar is chargeable, but 4 bottles of drinking water are provided free of charge.

A cool idea for a door sign using a magnetic sheet.

Another highlight is the keycard designed as a train ticket. Overall, the room is excellent.

Having thoroughly explored the room, let's venture out to investigate the surrounding area.

This is The Bridge Bar and Bistro, a restaurant with a high ceiling design, located next to a large rain tree.

Under the rain tree, there is a Daybed for you to relax and enjoy the cool evening breeze by the river.

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The following is a translation of the Thai phrase "คำเดียวเลย “ฟิน”" into English:

"Just one word: "amazing."

The swimming pool you see is a communal pool that all guests can use. You can swim and enjoy the view of the Mae Klong River. It's truly indescribable.

Before entering or exiting the pool, please take a look at the unique design of the shower.

There is a bamboo archway.

This mezzanine area is located within The Bridge Bar and Bistro, providing a comfortable space for guests to relax before their check-in time. During my stay, the resort was hosting an event, and the area was beautifully decorated with fresh flowers.

The way to the XFloat and XFloat LuXe Cabins zone.

High-angle view.

Golf carts are available for use.

Let's take a look at the atmosphere during twilight.

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While the daytime offers stunning views, the twilight hours present a different kind of beauty.

The wooden cabinet you see is the communal bathroom.

The zone of the room where I stayed and the view from the balcony of the room.

On the evening in question, I ventured outside the resort for dinner. As I was about to return to my room, a young staff member informed me that they would like to offer me a complimentary glass of wine to enjoy in the evening. This was their way of apologizing for the inconvenience caused by the unavailability of The Bridge Bar and Bistro, which was being prepared for an event the following day. I felt a little awkward about having dined outside the resort, but I didn't want to refuse their kind gesture, as I didn't want to offend them. So, I gratefully accepted. I would like to take this opportunity to thank X2. (In fact, guests were able to enjoy dinner outside the restaurant or order room service. On that particular day, the resort compensated for the inconvenience by offering a discount on the food.)

After a few glasses of wine, I felt a pleasant buzz and decided to call it a night. I slipped into bed, my head hitting the pillow, and drifted off to sleep in no time at all.

The next morning, I was determined to wake up and watch the sunrise. However, I was disappointed because I woke up late. But I still managed to see the golden light that kissed the surface of the Kwae Noi River. The thin mist came out to greet me at the distant bend of the river.

After spending some time on the balcony to catch the first light of the day, I went downstairs for breakfast.

The interior of the restaurant is high and airy, with no flower arrangements. The breakfast area has both indoor and outdoor seating.

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For those who wish to enjoy their breakfast while breathing in the fresh air, outdoor seating is available outside the dining room. I myself opted for this area for my morning meal.

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Breakfast here is served all day a la carte, with a choice of 5 menus. You can choose 1 menu.

"THE WAFFLE" is a dish consisting of scrambled eggs served with waffles and ham, accompanied by a side salad.

The US menu offers a choice of eggs, including omelets, scrambled eggs, and fried eggs, served with sausage, ham, or fried ground pork. It also comes with a side salad and beans. Bread and jam are included with this menu item.

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The fresh vegetables were crisp and the salad dressing was delicious. Overall, the breakfast was very good. It's a pity that the main course was not very filling.

If you're still hungry, the resort also offers homemade yogurt, fruits packed in glass jars (including pineapple and watermelon) chilled on ice, milk with various cereals and grains (such as almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and more), all available for unlimited consumption. I personally enjoyed two cups of yogurt, which was delicious. Additionally, sparkling wine is available for your morning enjoyment.

After breakfast, there is still some time to walk around the resort. I must say that there are many cool corners to take pictures. For those who are looking for a cool place to stay with a good atmosphere and no price restrictions on the room, I recommend trying to stay here. I guarantee that you will definitely like it. Plus, you will get beautiful pictures to show off to your friends, making them secretly envy you.

Upon check-in, guests will receive a commemorative CD. X2 River Kwai Resort is another resort that has won me over completely.

X2 River Kwai Resort: A Tranquil Escape with Caveats

My recent one-night stay at X2 River Kwai Resort revealed a haven of relaxation with certain considerations. The spacious and private rooms, complete with modern amenities, offered a comfortable retreat. The resort's distinct concept provided numerous picturesque corners for capturing memories. The serene atmosphere was a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

However, the resort's location, approximately 12 kilometers from the city center, presented some challenges. Dining options were scarce, and minimarts were difficult to find, making the resort's restaurant the primary source of sustenance. Approaching the resort after dark required caution due to its secluded setting. The abundance of trees within the resort offered ample shade during the morning and early afternoon, but direct sunlight dominated the later hours, limiting outdoor activities.

Despite these limitations, X2 River Kwai Resort offers a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation and privacy. The resort's unique design, comfortable accommodations, and peaceful ambiance create a memorable experience. However, guests should be aware of the limited dining options, the secluded location, and the potential for limited outdoor activities during certain times of the day.

On the second day of the program, I pinned my location at Wat Tham Sua. Whenever Wat Tham Sua is mentioned, the image of the large Buddha statue taken from a high angle always flashes into my mind. I have always been determined to take a picture from that angle one day. In fact, I have been to Wat Tham Sua many times before, but I have always arrived in the morning, which means I have never been able to walk up to the top of the pagoda. This is because the stairs leading up to the third floor are locked with a key.

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Tiger Cave Temple

The Tiger Cave Temple is located in the Tha Muang district. From the parking lot, there are two ways to reach the top of the temple. The first is to climb the Naga stairs, and the second is to take the funicular, which costs 10 baht for a round trip. However, considering the condition of the funicular, I decided to walk up the stairs instead. It's a good way to get some exercise.

The 157 steps left me drenched in sweat. My prolonged absence from exercise had made my breathing heavy, accompanied by the rapid and forceful beating of my heart. Fortunately, I didn't stop once throughout the 157 steps, although it did make me feel lightheaded. (If I had stopped, I would have been embarrassed by the aunties who were walking up behind me, one or two at a time. If they had overtaken me, it would have been humiliating.)

The following is a translation of the provided Thai text into English:

The top terrace houses the statue of Luang Pho Chin Pra Dan, the largest Buddha statue in the "Pra Dan" posture in Kanchanaburi. The statue is beautifully adorned with gold-colored mosaics. Beside the statue is the 9-story glass-spired pagoda. The entire pagoda is brick-colored, and each story houses numerous Buddha statues. The top of the pagoda enshrines a relic of the Lord Buddha, brought from India.

Each level of the pagoda has windows to allow the wind to blow inside. These windows are what I have been determined to stand at this point, and this time I have come to stand as I intended.

This is the angle I have long dreamed of capturing. Standing here, I can see Luang Pho Chin in all his glory, surrounded by rice fields. Unfortunately, on the day I visited, the rice fields had already been harvested. If it were during the planting season, the view would be much more vibrant. I will definitely return to this spot again in the future.

From another angle, a Chinese-style pagoda can be seen. I remember that when I first visited Tiger Cave Temple about 20 years ago, I came across a film set. I'm not sure if it was a Thai or Chinese film crew, but they were filming a martial arts drama here.

From Wat Tham Sua, I continued to Mina Café, a trendy coffee shop located near Wat Tham Sua.

The shop may not be decorated much, but the location of Mina Café is...

The interior design is simple yet stylish.

And here it is, the view I was talking about, a full view of Wat Tham Sua.

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The cafe offers a variety of seating options to suit different preferences. For those who prefer to escape the heat, there are air-conditioned rooms where they can enjoy a refreshing drink. For those who want to be closer to nature, there are hammocks and huts where they can relax and sip on a cool beverage while enjoying the view of the wooden bridge stretching across the rice fields. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a herd of cows grazing in the fields.

Unfortunately, when I visited, the rice had already been harvested. If I had come during the green rice season, it would have been much more refreshing. Or, if I had come during the rice-bearing season, this area would have been a golden field. No matter, I will come back and see it again next time.

After enjoying a refreshing drink at Mina Café, I headed towards the giant rain tree, which was located a short distance away.

The giant rain tree is located in the 1st Animal and Agriculture Division of the Army Animal Department. This was my first time visiting this place, and I was truly amazed by the size of the rain tree. Its branches spread out in all directions, some as thick as my body. The giant rain tree is over 100 years old and has a circumference of about 10 people. During my visit, it was the dry season, so the rain tree had shed a lot of its leaves. There are also small shops around the tree to serve tourists.

As mentioned in the introduction, the primary purpose of this trip was relaxation, not sightseeing. After visiting the Giant Rain Tree, I decided to relax and enjoy the riverside at my accommodation. For the second night, I chose to stay at Mstay by the River, another resort located on the banks of the Mae Klong River.

Mstay by the River: A Tranquil Oasis Near City Excitement

Mstay by the River boasts a prime location, offering convenient access to the city center and major tourist attractions like the River Kwai Bridge, the Don Rak War Cemetery, and the West Wonder Waterpark. Despite its proximity to these bustling areas, the resort provides a surprisingly peaceful and private retreat.

While one might expect noise and crowds due to its convenient location, Mstay by the River offers a tranquil escape, ensuring a truly relaxing experience.

Upon entering the driveway, two classic cars caught my eye on the right side. Despite their age, they appeared to be in working condition.

The orange building on the left has a lobby on the ground floor and accommodation on the upper floors. The green building on the right is also accommodation. I am staying in the green building.

The lobby is simple.

The dining area is located next to the lobby.

Alternatively, if you prefer to dine outdoors, there is a designated area adjacent to the River Kwai.

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The communal swimming pool here uses a saltwater system, which is gentler on the skin.

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Please provide a sentence or phrase that requires translation, and I will be happy to assist you.

The resort boasts a lush and tranquil atmosphere.

Please Translate:

Let's take a look at the room I'm staying in. It's decorated in brown tones, giving it a rather somber feel. The bed is a queen-size, and there's a small sofa for lounging. The room has wooden floors covered with a rug, and there's a small door leading to a balcony where you can stand and enjoy the view.

The bathroom features a wet and dry separation with a shower stall. The sink is creatively decorated with a sewing machine leg, adding a unique touch.

I had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Ae, the owner of this resort. Ms. Ae explained that the cleaning products used within the resort are completely chemical-free and instead utilize organic substances.

The location is right next to the Kwai Yai River. During the day, you can hear the sound of boats passing by, creating a truly authentic and local atmosphere.

Mstay by the River: A Private Oasis near Kanchanaburi

Mstay by the River offers a secluded haven for those seeking tranquility by the water's edge. Situated near Kanchanaburi's city center and iconic landmarks like the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Allied War Cemetery, this resort prioritizes privacy and environmental consciousness.

Upon entering the resort, guests are enveloped in a sense of intimacy, reminiscent of a home away from home. Mstay's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of chemical-free products and organic extracts. This dedication to the environment is one of the reasons I chose to stay here.

For those seeking a relaxing getaway in Kanchanaburi, Mstay by the River presents an enticing option. Its combination of privacy, eco-friendly practices, and convenient location makes it a truly remarkable destination.

To conclude the evening, I have a plan to stroll through the Pak Phraek Walking Street, which is only open on Saturdays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It's easy to find, located just across from Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal.

In addition to strolling along the walking street, we can also visit important landmarks of Kanchanaburi, such as the remains of the city gate and the monument of King Nangklao (Rama III).

Including the City Pillar Shrine.

The walking street offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, dried goods, food, and daily necessities. Notably, the street is known for its diverse food options, including traditional dishes and fresh fruits and vegetables available throughout its 400-500 meter length. If you are staying in Kanchanaburi city on a Saturday, consider visiting the Pak Phraek Walking Street in the late afternoon for a leisurely stroll and a taste of local life.

For the last day of the program, I plan to go animal watching at Safari Park and Camp.

Safari Park and Camp is located in Bo Phloi District. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The front of the park may look a bit dry, but it is consistent with the safari atmosphere.

Upon entering the park, visitors will encounter the ticket booth. Admission fees are as follows: adults 200 baht, children under 120 cm in height 100 baht, and children under 90 cm in height are admitted free of charge. Adjacent to the ticket booth is the animal food sales area. The animal food available for purchase consists of thinly sliced carrots placed in baskets. Four baskets are sold for 100 baht.

What can tourists do with 200 baht?

• Visit the safari zone, which is divided into 8 zones: Fallow deer, water buffalo, blackbuck and sand gazelle, tiger, African lion, leopard, Indian sambar deer, white fallow deer, emu, and the final zone: giraffe, zebra, ostrich, and flamingo.
• Watch the crocodile show.
• Watch the elephant show.

With tickets and pet food ready, let's go!

There are two ways to enter the zoo: by private car or by mini-bus. If you choose to drive your own car, the zoo will not be responsible for any damage caused by animals. The entrance fee is based on the number of people in the car, not the car itself. Alternatively, you can take the free mini-bus provided by the zoo. The mini-buses are air-conditioned but have open windows.

The first zone features fallow deer with an unusual coat color. The deer appear somewhat thin, and their fur seems to be in poor condition. As the minibus pulls up, the deer run out to greet us, their eyes filled with longing. Although I had intended to feed the giraffes, I couldn't resist offering a carrot to the deer after seeing their pleading gaze.

The next zone is the bear enclosure. The bear was seen lazing around in its den, refusing to come out to greet us.

Tiger zone. The large tiger does not seem to be afraid of tourists.

The leopard zone is truly impressive. The leopards look sleek and agile, making me want to reach out and stroke their heads.

The African lion, this one is very big. It sleeps without fear of anything. Even when the car is parked next to it, it doesn't wake up in fear.

And this zone is the one that I think all tourists are waiting for, which is the giraffe zone. As soon as the car enters the giraffe area, a large herd of giraffes comes to greet us.

This zone offers tourists the closest encounter with safari animals.

The tame giraffe allowed tourists to stroke its head and take photos with it, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone's faces. Not only were the children excited, but adults like myself were equally thrilled. It was my first time having the opportunity to stroke a giraffe's head. When it leaned forward to ask for food, it would stick out its long tongue and flick the carrot into its mouth. The giraffe's fur looked clean and healthy.

In the same zone, there was also a herd of zebras joining in. This was the first time I had seen zebras up close, and I really wanted to hug them. I love the patterns on their bodies.

This is the final zone for the safari tour.

The minibus dropped us off at another project, similar to a zoo. This zone allows tourists to explore at their own pace. However, before we do that, let's head to the crocodile show as it's about to start.

Front of the crocodile show arena.

The crocodile show lasts approximately 20 minutes. The crocodile handler performs several thrilling stunts, including lying on the crocodile's back, putting his hand in the crocodile's mouth, having the crocodile hold a banknote in its mouth, and culminating with the handler placing his head inside the crocodile's mouth. This elicited thunderous applause from the tourists.

Next, we watched the elephant show, which included log lifting, elephant golf, elephant polo, and elephant crossing. I thought the elephant show was a bit short.

The show schedule may be subject to change, so it's best to check the times again at the venue. During my visit, the show schedule included a dog show, but it was crossed out, leaving only two shows to watch.

After watching both shows, you can continue to walk and see the animals in the various cages. Once you have seen all the cages, return to the mini-bus stop where you got off the bus.

In addition, there is a zone where we can interact with various animals, such as feeding them milk, taking photos with tigers, or walking them on a leash. However, these activities incur additional costs.

I spent about 2 hours at the Safari Park and Camp before heading to my next destination, which would be my last stop in Kanchanaburi.

My trip to Kanchanaburi concluded at Wat Tip Suwanaram, located near Safari Park and Camp.

Wat Tip Suwannaram: A Place of Serenity and Rainfall

Nestled in the serene district of Huai Krachao, Wat Tip Suwannaram stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural significance. The temple's crowning jewel is the majestic "Phra Phuttha Metta Pracha Thai Trai Lokanath Kanthararat Anusorn," a bronze statue of the Buddha in the rain-seeking posture, towering at an impressive 32 meters. This monumental figure is the largest of its kind in Thailand, symbolizing the power of prayer and the blessings of rainfall. Devotees who pay their respects to this sacred effigy are said to experience a sense of tranquility and prosperity, akin to the land receiving the life-giving showers.

The interior is beautifully decorated, and judging from the style, it is likely that Nong Nooch Garden is responsible for the landscaping. As there are not many large trees within the temple, there is not much shade from the sun.

On my way back home to Lopburi from Wat Tip Sukhontharam, I passed through U Thong District. As I was driving through U Thong, I suddenly remembered that there was a Buddha statue carved into a cliff face there. I immediately checked Google Maps.

Not far from the main road, you will find a large carved Buddha statue, which is now carved to the point where you can see the shape of the Buddha.

The monumental Buddha statue known as Phra Buddha Phutthakhiri Srisuwanabhum, or Luang Pho U Thong, is carved into the Dragon's Breath Cliff within an abandoned quarry. Standing at a towering 108 meters tall, with a base width of 88 meters and a lap width of 65 meters, it is the largest cliff-carved Buddha statue in the world.

Behind the Buddha statue, there is a tunnel carved into the rock, forming a cave approximately 20 meters deep. Inside the tunnel, there are sacred Buddha statues, including the goddess Phra Mae Thorani. If you are passing through U Thong district, try stopping by to admire the grandeur of Luang Pho U Thong. You can also participate in making merit to build the Buddha statue, which will bring good fortune to your life. The road leading to the temple is not difficult to navigate.

This short trip was a truly worthwhile way to spend my vacation. If you're still looking for a place to visit during your next break, consider following my itinerary. You can observe wildlife, visit temples, explore historical sites, and relax by the river, all in one place: Kanchanaburi.

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