Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour

Bangkok , Thailand

Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour

Active

(658 reviews)

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kanchanaburi's famous Bridge on the River Kwai and the beginning of the Death Railway is a poignant reminder of the thousands of POW's and forced laborers who lost their lives in the Second World War. This full day guided tour from Bangkok also includes a visit to the war museum and the opportunity to ride a local train.

Available options

Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Long-tail boat ride

Hotel pickup and drop off (selected hotels only)

Local guide

Lunch

Admission Fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Train ride along Death Railway

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is the main prisoner of war cemetery for victims of Japanese imprisonment while building the Burma Railway during the 2nd World War.

Stop 2

Visit the Jeath War Museum. Dive into the history of the construction of the Death Railway and how it was built by the prisoners of war during World War 2.

Stop 3

Take a long Tail Boat and cruise under the River Kwai Bridge

Stop 4

Fascinating, nostalgic and memorable sums up this full day tour to Kanchanaburi, 80 miles (130 kilometers) west of Bangkok. The province itself is an agricultural area with sugar cane, rice paddies and pineapple plantations all forming significant portions of the stunning Thai rural landscape. Whether a war buff or rail enthusiast, everyone has a different reason to see this symbolic bridge.

The famous bridge and the beginning of the 'Death Railway', which lies 1 mile outside the town of Kanchanaburi, is a poignant reminder of the thousands of POW's and forced laborers who lost their lives in the Second World War. The building of the bridge in 1943 was one part of a huge Japanese wartime project to link existing Thai and Burmese railway lines to create a direct route from Bangkok, Thailand to Rangoon, Burma (now Myanmar) in an effort to support the Japanese occupation of Burma. Thousands of POW's and laborers died in the process. During your tour a visit will be made to one of the Allied War Grave cemeteries (often an emotional experience) before visiting the JEATH war museum, which houses pictures and paintings from this period.

An exhilarating long tailed speed boat ride will then take you down river to the famous bridge itself where you have ample time to explore at your own leisure. A ride on a local train is also included before returning to Bangkok city.

Stop 5

Hop on a train which will make you discover the jungle of this region while Riding the Death Railway.

What's not included

Beverages

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

465 reviews

5★

238

4★

149

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

193 reviews

5★

103

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Boat ride is not wheelchair accessible

Restroom facilities available

You must provide your hotel details at time of booking, failure to do so may result in cancellation

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the unlikely event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Optional extras on train - approx. 200baht for upgrade on train which will guarantee seat (otherwise 'first-in-best-dressed') plus cold towel, drinking water OR approx. 300baht for upgrade on train which will guarantee seat (otherwise 'first-in-best-dressed') plus tea/coffee, drinking water, cold towel and certificate.

Important notes

• Tour East Thailand will contact you at your hotel the evening prior to your tour/transfer service to advise the exact pick-up time and location (This excludes activities/options without the hotel pick-up).

If you have not received these details, please contact Tour East Thailand:
Email: thailand@toureast.net

Reservation Number:
Office hours: 09.00 hrs - 18.00 hrs -Closed on weekends
Tel: (66)-2-230-0405 # 201

Emergency number
Operating hours: 07.00 hrs - 19.00 hrs - Daily and weekends
Tel: (66)-92-256-0692

Please Note: Hotel pickup and drop-off is available from selected hotels only.
• Optional extras on train - approx. 200baht for upgrade on train which will guarantee seat (otherwise 'first-in-best-dressed') plus cold towel, drinking water OR approx. 300baht for upgrade on train which will guarantee seat (otherwise 'first-in-best-dressed') plus tea/coffee, drinking water, cold towel and certificate.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Bangkok

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dynamic blend of traditional culture and modern urban life. Known for its ornate temples, bustling street markets, and world-class street food, Bangkok offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Top Attractions

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the royal residence from 1782 to 1925. It is a stunning example of Thai architecture and houses the Emerald Buddha.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 500 THB

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is famous for its beautiful porcelain decorations and the iconic prang (spire).

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours 50 THB

Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the world's largest markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a vast array of goods, from clothing and accessories to food and antiques.

Shopping/Cultural Half day to full day Varies

Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok. Taking a boat tour along the river offers a unique perspective of the city and its many temples and palaces.

Nature/Scenic 1-3 hours Varies

Chatuchak Park

Chatuchak Park is a large and lush urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It is home to a variety of plants, animals, and recreational facilities.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a sweet and tangy sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood.

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Lunch/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet ripe mango served with sticky rice and coconut milk.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Erawan National Park Kayaking on the Chao Phraya River ATV tours in Hin Lek Fai Spa and massage treatments Boat tours on the Chao Phraya River Visiting temples and parks Visiting temples and historical sites Attending traditional Thai performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's peak tourist season with lively festivals and events.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and traffic accidents can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and tuk-tuks.
• Be wary of jet ski rentals and gem shops.

Getting there

By air

Suvarnabhumi Airport • 30 km from city center
Don Mueang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

By bus

Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Ekamai Bus Terminal, Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned, the MRT is a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Khao San Road Sukhumvit Chinatown (Yaowarat) Silom Banglamphu

Day trips

Ayutthaya

80 km from Bangkok • Full day

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is known for its stunning temples and historical ruins.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

105 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Damnoen Saduak is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand, offering a unique shopping and dining experience on the water.

Maeklong Railway Market

80 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Maeklong Railway Market is a unique market where vendors set up their stalls on the railway tracks, and a train passes through several times a day.

Festivals

Songkran • April 13-15 Loy Krathong • Full moon night in November Vegetarian Festival • September/October (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway to avoid traffic and get around the city quickly and efficiently.
Haggle and bargain when shopping at markets and street stalls, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try street food, but choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.