Though not a beach, many backpackers are taking advantage of the laid-back river vibe of Kanchanaburi to explore a new culture and pay respect to an infamous historical site. Kanchanaburi is located at the crossing of the river Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai in the west of Thailand. The bridge that crosses over the river Kwai has been immortalized in history books, a movie and a book titled The Bridge Over the River Kwai.
This bridge was the start to the Death Railway built during WWII by POWs under command of the Japanese. During the building of the railroad, 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most enslaved) died from injury, accident, maltreatment and malnutrition. Most of the current bridge is not the original, but pieces have been kept as memorials in the museum located near Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi is not only known for its connection to history, but is also known to Thais as the most beautiful province in Thailand due to its magnificent waterfalls and easily accessible national parks. The best-known falls are likely Erawan Falls, but the Sai Yok Noi Falls are as spectacular and are easier to access. Most accommodations are built along the riverbanks or floating upon the river.
