Kanchanaburi
The third largest province in Thailand, Kanchanaburi, is located just 129 kilometers from Bangkok and spans nearly 20,000 square kilometers. The province borders Myanmar, Tak, Uthai Thani, Ratchaburi, Stuphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom. Originally part of the Burmese invasion route for entering Thai Kingdoms, Kanchanaburi today hosts the highest number of visitors among the western provinces.
Thailand’s largest waterfall, Namtok, and many of its best wildlife sanctuaries are in Kanchanaburi. The rich vegetations and unique combination of mountains and plains makes this region known for its magnificent landscape. The province’s two most important rivers, Maenam Khwae Noi and Maenam Khwae Yai, find their source in the Thanon Thongchai mountain range which forms a natural border between Myanmar and Thailand.
The abundance of scenic forests, rivers, waterfalls, ancient caves, and pristine national parks has led to an influx in visitors to the province. Adventure opportunities abound, including rafting, fishing, mountain biking, star-gazing, bird-watching, golfing, canoeing and elephant and jungle trekking. The people of Kanchanaburi pride themselves in the region’s scenic beauty and are eager to offer these opportunities to travellers.
The site where the two rivers, Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai, meet to form the Maenam Mae Klong is the location of the famous Bridge on the River Khwae. This famous WWII site is known across the globe, and along with the nortorious Death Railway, has been immortalized in print and film.
Tourism is a primary income source among the people of Kanchanaburi and has led to over 10% economic growth annually. Other industries of the region include agriculture (primarily sugar) and jewelry-making.
