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My Advice · 4 November 2026 · 4 min read

Kanchanaburi from Pattaya: History, Waterfalls and a Night on the River

By Shane Ruddle

Kanchanaburi, west of Bangkok, is a must if you love history, and a lovely trip for couples. I've been three times, once on a golf trip.

Getting there: rent a car

It's about three and a half to four hours' drive from Pattaya. I've done it by minibus and by car, and I'd rent a car.

The last time I took a minibus, the driver went too fast all the way there and all the way back. That's common here. Minibus drivers in Thailand tend to drive aggressively and always seem to be in a rush, probably because the sooner they arrive, the sooner they can pick up the next fare. A really good driver can double as a guide, but that's rare. I just don't feel safe in them, and I prefer the freedom to go at my own pace and change the plan for the day.

You also need a car once you're there, because the sights are spread out.

What to see

  • The Bridge on the River Kwai. Obviously worth seeing.
  • The war cemetery. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is also worth a visit.
  • Erawan Falls. Very nice. The falls have seven levels, and most people only go up to level three or four, which is plenty. I went all the way to the top, but you need to be reasonably fit for that.
  • The skywalk. We visited the glass skywalk by the river last time, with a great view over part of Kanchanaburi. Definitely worth it.
  • More waterfalls just off the river.

Stay a night on the river

I'd highly recommend spending a night on the river. There are plenty of places with rooms right on the water, basically a row of cabins run as a guesthouse. They're inexpensive and easy to find on Agoda or Booking.com. There's something beautiful about waking up in the morning on the river. It's very quiet.

The main hotel we stayed in was older and traditional, and I really enjoyed it. Hotels there tend to be big, on lots of land, with plenty of trees and nature.

Golf

The golf courses are fantastic. One I remember was set in forest, with lots of trees and wildlife. They're very scenic, very quiet and excellent value. Most of the golfers are Thai, apart from day-trippers from Bangkok and the odd group from Pattaya or Hua Hin, so prices are much lower than at home, and the quality is still great. More in golf in Pattaya.

How long to stay

For the tourist sights, three days and two nights is enough. I wouldn't stay longer unless you're there for golf or trekking.

When to go

Any time of year. In the rainy season Erawan Falls are at their best and everything is quieter. In the high season it's busier, but the temperature is easier and there's more atmosphere around the markets, restaurants and seafood places along the river. Like most of Thailand, each season has its pros and cons.

Who it suits

History lovers and couples. If you're into history and you're coming to Thailand, it's an absolute must. It's also quite a romantic spot.

For families it's not bad, but it's not ideal. My kids wouldn't be excited by the Bridge on the River Kwai, and I doubt older kids would be either.

If you need a car for the trip, Pattaya Rent a Car can help, and before you go, read driving in Pattaya.

This is part of my series on trips from Pattaya: Koh Chang, Kanchanaburi, Bang Saen, Bang Saray, Sukhothai, Khao Yai and Rayong. For shorter outings, read the best day trips from Pattaya.