Bridge on the River Kwai

The basics

The bridge that spans the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi forms part of the notorious Burma Railway, a rail link between Bangkok and Myanmar that was built during the Japanese occupation of Thailand in the Second World War. The bridge is still a functioning rail link, and trains cross regularly on their journey to and from Bangkok. On Bridge on the River Kwai tours, you can take a train across the bridge, and visit the adjacent war museum, which examines the atrocities; to get a deeper look at the bridge’s history, join a guided tour of the area.

Things to know before you go

• Exploring the area around the bridge and the train ride may both prove challenging to people with limited mobility.

• If you’re visiting the cemetery, remember that you are in a place of quiet contemplation.

• You can combine a train trip with a visit to the museum for a single price by joining a pre-booked tour that includes Bridge on the River Kwai tickets.

How to get there

The Bridge on the River Kwai is located in Kanchanaburi Province. The site is accessible by train from Bangkok or as part of a guided tour that includes transportation. Alternatively, you can hire a car from Bangkok, about 80 miles (128 km) away.

When to get there

The railway station and museum are open all year round. The best time of year to visit Thailand is from November to March, when the weather is generally dry and relatively cool. The Bridge on the River Kwai tends to be busiest around lunchtime when day trips from Bangkok arrive.

Swim in the waterfalls at Erawan

Many trips to see the Kwai bridge include a visit to the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls in Erawan National Park. This 7-tiered waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful in Thailand; cool off by climbing the natural rock steps and swimming in the pristine pools at the base of the falls.