Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Guided Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the historic Bridge on the River Kwai
- Experience a scenic ride on the Thailand-Burma Railway
- Learn about World War II history from expert guides
- Visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
- Enjoy picturesque views of the Kwai River
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Bangkok
- Guided tour of the Bridge on the River Kwai
- Ride on the Thailand-Burma Railway
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
The Khwae Yai River, also known as the Si Sawat, is a river in western Thailand. It has its source in the Tenasserim Hills and flows for about 380 kilometres through Sangkhla Buri, Si Sawat, and Mueang Districts of Kanchanaburi Province, where it merges with the Khwae Noi to form the Mae Klong River at Pak Phraek.
The bridge on the river Kwai, that many people know from the 1957 movie with the same name or from the book by Pierre Boulle is part of the infamous Death Railway, built during World War II from 1942 to 1943. The railway connected Kanchanaburi in Western Thailand with Rangoon in Myanmar, called Burma back then, and was about 415 kilometers long. On both ends construction began in June 1942 working towards each other. In October 1943 the two sides met, finishing the railway.
The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is the main prisoner of war cemetery for victims of Japanese imprisonment while building the Burma Railway. It is on the main road, Saeng Chuto Road, through the town of Kanchanaburi, Thailand, adjacent to an older Chinese cemetery.
This small museum, opened in 1977, mostly focuses on the terrible ordeals of the POWs who built the Death Railway. Their harsh living conditions are shown in many original photos, letters and drawings from that time as well as personal effects and war relics, including an unexploded Allied bomb dropped to destroy the bridge. One of the three galleries is built from bamboo in the style of the shelters (called attap) the POWs lived in.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour involves walking and a train ride; ensure you're comfortable with these activities.
- Meals and beverages are not included; consider bringing snacks or purchasing food during the tour.
- The tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language for a full experience.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and the train ride.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect against sun and insects.
- Carry a camera to capture the scenic views and historical sites.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- You must provide your hotel details at time of booking, failure to do so may result in cancellation
- Child rate is priced for children lower than 100cm tall. If Over 100cm, please pay the adult rates.
- Timings at each part of the tour may be changed at the discretion of the guide and the group
- 300baht is payable by all guests on the train which will include a guaranteed seat. This can be paid at the train station in cash to the guide.
- This tour can be taken shared with other passengers OR private with own vehicle and guide
- River Kwai is approx 130km from Bangkok with a stop on the way time permitting.
- Tour includes hotel pick up / drop off and is available from most central Bangkok hotels. This Option can be amended and/or cancelled. You will be able to arrange pick up from your hotel or a nearby location when you call to confirm your reservation. Hotel pick up may be 30-60 minutes prior to tour Start time/Departure time (depending on hotel location).
Traveler reviews
My Trip Experience.
I had an amazing experience on this trip and it exceeded my expectations. Mr. Oom our guide is quite a character and made the long day enjoyable. Because this is a long day with the drive there and back. Once there the visit to the small museum and then the real attraction begins with the long boat to the bridge then watching the train cross then you can cross at your leisure. Then a short drive to the station for a 75min train journey through picturesque country side. You should be aware that as the windows are open to see everything fumes and dust do enter the coaches but it's a small price to pay for the experience. After the train ride we went for the buffet lunch at a restaurant with beautiful views over the valley and the food wasn't bad either. Overall I would say this trip is worth the cost and the time.
Worth a day
Travis was wonderful, I highly recommend booking if you are interested in WWII history
If you enjoy history,...
If you enjoy history, this experience is for you! They organized all details so incredibly, from bathroom breaks, lunch, and pickups/drop offs. Be prepared to pay the 300 bath cost for a train seat, per person, in cash. Water was also provided throughout. Our tour guide, Oom, was very thorough and knowledgeable about the history of the Bridge and POWs. The tour may leave you feeling a bit melancholy, but overall it was an experience we were glad to attend.
Great Bridge over River Kwai tour
Was a great experience to visit such a historical location in our shared history from WW2
Well worth it !
5 hour combo private. Fantastic guide, Rach and smooth driver. Train and boat rides were fantastic, prime seating for the two of us. Buffet lunch at train stop excellent also. Really really great value quality experience.