Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
Tucked away in the western part of Thailand, Kanchanaburi province is often overshadowed by the country’s more popular tourist destinations. But make no mistake – this relatively unknown province packs a punch, and is well worth a visit for anyone looking to experience the real Thailand. The province is home to numerous temples and ruins that offer a glimpse into Thailand’s past, including the famous Wat Tham Pha Luang cave temple, which was built in honor of a revered local monk. Kanchanaburi is also where you’ll find the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, made famous by the 1957 Hollywood movie of the same name.
If you’re planning a trip to Kanchanaburi, you might be wondering what the best way to get there is. After all, Bangkok is a big city and Kanchanaburi is a bit off the beaten path. While there are a few different options for getting from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, the most convenient option is to take a minibus.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi by Minibus
- Price: from 150 THB
- Travel time: around 3 hours
Taking the bus is one of the cheapest ways to travel from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. If you’re on a budget, this is definitely the way to go. Tickets usually cost between THB 140-300, which is a fraction of what you would pay for a taxi ride.
Which Companies Operate on This Route?
There are a few companies that operate on the Bangkok to Kanchanaburi route: Kanchanaburi Express, Win Happy, Tara Tour and Travel, and Monsiri Travel Kanchanaburi. All of these companies offer air-conditioned minibuses with pick-up and drop-off services at various locations in Bangkok and Kanchanaburi.
We recommend booking it online at 12Go in advance so that you can be sure to get a seat on the minibus of your choice.
How Long Does the Trip Take?
The trip from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi by minibus takes approximately 3 hours, although it can be longer depending on the departure and arrival points. Please note that traffic conditions can also sometimes make the trip take longer.
What Do I Need to Bring With Me?
A valid photo ID may be required when boarding the minibus. We recommend bringing your passport or driver’s license just to be safe.
The bus from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is a comfortable ride, with plenty of legroom and USB charging ports. However, the air conditioning can make it chilly, so be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi by Taxi
- Price: from 2900 THB
- Travel time: around 3-3.5 hours
Taxis are a convenient way to travel from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. You can either take a taxi from Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi Airport. Prices start at 2900 THB per vehicle. The taxi will have air conditioning, and it is a comfortable ride. And with tickets available online at 12go.asia, getting there is easy.
It is also faster than taking the bus. This makes it a great option if you are short on time. Taxis are a great way to travel around Thailand, and they are relatively inexpensive. If you are looking for a convenient and affordable way to get around, then taking a taxi is the way to go.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi by Train
Instead of departing from Hua Lamphong, trains bound for Kanchanaburi leave from Thonburi.
Every day, there are two trains that go all the way to Nam Tok.
- The first train leaves at 07:50 and arrives in Kanchanaburi at 10:25.
- The second train leaves at 13:55 and arrives in Kanchanaburi at 16:24.
Tickets can be bought only at the ticket office at Thonburi station.
What Is the Distance Between Bangkok and Kanchanaburi?
So, how far apart are these two destinations? The answer is 150 kilometers, or about 93 miles. If you’re planning on making the journey by bus, it will take you around 3 hours to get there. By train, the journey takes a little longer at 4 hours. Of course, if you’re driving yourself, then the journey time will depend on traffic conditions.
What to See in Kanchanaburi
Once you have arrived in Kanchanaburi, there are a number of attractions that you can visit. These include the Bridge over the River Kwai, the Death Railway Museum, Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, and Wat Tham Suea Temple.
This historic province, located just a few hours west of Bangkok, was the site of the Death Railway, built by Allied POWs during World War II. Today, Kanchanaburi is best known for its natural beauty, with numerous waterfalls, hot springs, and jungle trekking opportunities. For many visitors, though, the province’s primary attraction is the Erawan National Park.
The park’s centerpiece is the seven-tiered Erawan Falls, considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.
Other popular Kanchanaburi attractions include Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum and the Bridge over the River Kwai. No matter what your interests are, Kanchanaburi has something to offer everyone.
