Kanchanaburi (province)
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Kanchanaburi Province is in Central Thailand. Kanchanaburi (กาญจนบุรี) is the provincial capital of Kanchanaburi Province.
[edit] SloganA province of ancient community, three pagodas pass, precious stones, River Kwae Bridge, Minerals and waterfall resources.
[edit] UnderstandA province in the Central Plains, Kanchanaburi is frequented by tourists who have been attracted by its long history and ancient civilizations, a location of the Bridge over the River Khwae – ‘Kwai’ as it is known internationally and scene of the historic World War II. The province is also famous for its natural attractions such as forests, mountains, caves and waterfalls. [edit] HistoryArchaelogy found in Kanchanburi dates back to the 4th century which proves of trade with surrounding countries even in that time. Very little is also historically known about the actual Khmer influence in Kanchanaburi but there is evidence of their occupation with Prasat Muang Singh – one of the country’s most well-known Khmer sites. Not much was historically recorded about Kanchanaburi provice before the reign of King Rama I, but some historians believe that the province played much strategical importance during the Ayutthaya period. In 1982 the Fine Arts Department found many human and elephant skeletons and swords in Phanom Thuan District. Thus, this site might even have been the location of the famous battle of King Naresuan against the Burmese crown-prince, most commonly assigned to the Don Chedi district in Suphanburi province nearby. With the rise of the Chakri Dynasty and General Chakri (who would later become King Rama I) Kanchanaburi certainly played a distinctive strategical point as defense against the invading Burmese. For foreigners however, it is only Kanchanaburi’s recent history which really stands out with the name ‘The Death Railway’. During the Japanese occupation of Thailand in 1942 POWs both allies and Asian laborers were ordered by the Japanese to build a Thailand-Burma railway. Eventually, an unprecedented more than 100,000 POWs (16,000 allies and 90,000 local Asian laborers) died from horrific working conditions.
[edit] GeographyKanchanaburi is located 129 km. from Bangkok and covers a total area of approximately 19,483 sq.km., being the country’s third largest province next to Nakhon Ratchasima and Chiang Mai. Topographically, it is covered with timber and evergreen forests, with 2 main rivers; namely, the Khwae Yai and Khwae Noi Rivers which meet and become the Mae Klong River at Amphoe Mueang.
[edit] DistrictsThe province comprises 13 amphoe:- Bo Phloi; Dan Makham Tia; Huai Krachao; Lao Khwan; Mueang Kanchanaburi; Nong Prue; Phanom Thuan; Sai Yok; Sangkhla Buri; Si Sawat; Tha Maka; Tha Muang; Thong Pha Phum.
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[edit] Get in[edit] CarTake Phetchakasem Road or Borommaratchachonnani Road via Nakhon Chai Si, Nakhon Pathom, Ban Pong, Tha Maka, Tha Muang to Kanchanaburi, a total distance of 129 km., taking about 1½ hours. Non-air conditioned buses are available at Kanchanaburi Bus Station on Saeng Chu To Road to various districts such as Amphoe Bo Phloi, Amphoe Nong Prue, Amphoe Thong Pha Phum and Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, or the several attractions like Namtok Erawan, Namtok Sai Yok Noi, Namtok Sai Yok Yai. For more information,please contact Kanchanaburi Bus Station Tel. 0 3451 1182. Air-conditioned Bus: From the Southern Bus Terminal, 1st-class buses leave every 20 minutes during 5.00 a.m. – 10.30 p.m., running on the Borommaratchachonnani Road – Nakhon Chai Si route; 2nd-class buses leave every 20 minutes during 5.10 a.m. – 9.00 p.m., running on 2 routes; namely, the old route: Phetchakasem Road – Om Yai – Nakhon Chai Si, and the new route: Borommaratchachonnani Road – Nakhon Chai Si, taking approximately 2 hours. For more details, please contact Kanchanaburi Tour Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 2435 5012 or www.transport.co.th.
[edit] TrainThere are trains leaving Bangkok Noi Railway Station twice daily at 7.40 a.m. and 1.50 p.m., and stopping at Kanchanaburi Station, River Khwae Bridge, Tha Kilen Station and Namtok Station. The journey takes approximately 4½ hours. For further details, please contact Bangkok Noi Railway Station, Tel. 0 2411 3102. A one-day return trip by a tourist train is available on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays. For more details, please contact the State Railway of Thailand, Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334 or http://www.railway.co.th. In town, one of the most popular modes of public transport is by old-fashioned cycle rickshaw (samlor), they cost about the same as motorbike taxis – of course, much slower but definitely safer. If traveling to a national park alone and not by group tour, it is almost mandatory that you have your own car. From the provincial town there are are non-airconditioned buses available to all province’s districts. There are buses to Suphanburi Town where travelers can stay a pleasant stay before heading to Ayutthaya the next day. Other provinces with buses to are Ratchaburi and Nakhorn Pathom.
[edit] Get aroundOne of the little known "things to do" in the Kanachanaburi area is to travel by boat on the two main rivers, the Maenam Kwae Yai and the Kwae Noi, the latter one meaning "small" Kwae which is a misnomer as it is really the bigger and longer river leading up all the way to Sangklahburi near the Burmese border at the Three Pagodas Pass. The best way to explore the river is to book a 4-days / 3-nights trip on the RV River Kwai, a 4 years old river cruiser built in colonial style with 10 airconditioned cabins. Upriver cruises operate MON-THU and downriver THU-SUN, year round, with trips starting and ending in Bangkok. see also http://www.cruiseasia.net
[edit] TourismBordering Burma, Kanchanaburi is notably Thailand’s third largest province with an area of 19,500 sqm. Most foreigners when they think of Kanchanburi they think of the River Kwae Bridge, but Kancahburi has so much more in the way of waterfalls, mountains, dams, fishing, boating, trekking and cave exploration. Sai Yok National Park is extremely popular. Located just 129km from Bangkok, Kanchanburi is also a favourite holiday destination for Bangkokian and other Thais residing in the central region
[edit] Culture[edit] LifestyleMost of the local rural people work in the field of agriculture. Even though most of them are of Thai ancestry, there is also a lot of Mon and Karen blood around. As minority people have dwelled in the area for hundreds of years, Kanchanburi enjoys plenty of popular folk festivals.
[edit] Folk Culture and TraditionsRam Yoei is a local dance of the Kanchanaburi local people that has been performed for more than 500 years. They perform Ram Yoei on Songkran Day and New Year, etc. Men and women must form a circle, one person will lead to sing and another will sing to the other’s lyric in reply, and Luk Khu (chorus) will sing along and clap their hands together. While the latter one sings, each pair of men and women will dance to the rhythm of Klong Yao drums. The men will dress with Chong Kraben and round-necked shirt with pha khao ma or loincloth on their shoulders. Women will be dressed in Thai typical costumes with Sabai Chiang, a breast cloth worn over one shoulder. At present, Ram Yoei is played only in Amphoe Phanom Thuan.
[edit] Events and FestivalsMineral Water and Waterfall Bathing Day (งานวันอาบน้ำแร่แช่น้ำตก); held at Hin Dat Hot Spring, Mu. 5, Tambon Hin Dat, Amphoe Thong Pha Phum at the beginning of November. In the festival, there are booths of agricultural products and tourism exhibition of Amphoe Thong Pha Phum. Tourists will have a chance to bath in the Hin Dat Hot Spring and enjoy the beautiful view of Namtok Pha Tat. Boat and Raft People’s Day (งานเทศกาลชาวเรือชาวแพ); held every year at the beginning of November at Song Khwae Road near the riverside in front of the city of Kanchanaburi. Activities are folk performances, Thai typical music performance, academic exhibition concerning conservation of rivers and canals, water sports such as riding long-boat, speed-boat and jet-skiing. River Kwai Bridge Week (งานสัปดาห์สะพานข้ามแม่น้ำแคว); held every year around the end of November until the beginning of December to commemorate the significance of the Death Railway and the Bridge over the Khwae River taking place in WWII. Visitors can see the historical and archaeological exhibition, folk performances, booths of products, entertaining activities, and light and sound show. [edit] See
[edit] Amphoe MuaangKanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak) (สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก), located on Saeng Chu To Road (Highway 323) before reaching the provincial town. The immaculately maintained cemetery contains the remains of 6,982 Allied POWs who perished during the construction of the ‘Death Railway’. Its tranquility reminds the visitors of the war and its after-effects. For more information, call Tel. 0 3451 1500. Thailand – Burma Railway Centre (พิพิธภัณฑ์ทางรถไฟไทย – พม่า), located near the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak), puts on an exhibition of history of the Thai – Burma railway from the invasion of the Imperial Japanese Army, planning and construction of the railway, its geography, living condition in POW camps, medical aspects, summary of deaths, operation, bombing and end of the railway, as well as aftermath of the war. Open daily during 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Admission is Bt60 for adults and Bt30 for children under 12. For further details, please call Tel. 0 3451 0067 or www.tbrconline.com or E-mail:admin@tbrconline.com.
Bridge over the River Khwae (สะพานข้ามแม่น้ำแคว) is located in Tambon Tha Makham, approximately 4 km to the north of the city on Highway 323, with a left turn for some 400 metres. A site of significant historical importance, the bridge was built during WWII under the supervision of the Japanese Army by Allied POWs comprising of 61,700 British, American, Australian, Dutch and New Zealand soldiers and a large number of Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Malaysian, Thai, Burmese and Indian labourers. It was part of the strategic railway linking Thailand with Burma. The painstaking construction of the Bridge over the Khwae Yai River – River Kwai as it is known among foreigners, brutalities of war, diseases and starvation claimed thousands of lives of the POWs.
Death Railway (ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ), the strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. The total distance within the Thai territory was 300 km., taking only one year to complete from October 1942 – October 1943. After the war, some part of the tracks was demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. The Death Railway is a reminder of the cruel war and its painstaking construction by the Allied POWs. It runs through a scenic landscape, especially the area of Tham Krasae where it skirts the cliff overlooking the Khwae Noi River. The railway currently ends at Ban Tha Sao or Namtok Station, a distance of some 77 km. from Kanchanaburi Station. A special train running from Bangkok to Namtok Station is available on weekends and national holidays. For further details, please contact the State Railway of Thailand, Tel. 0 1690, 0 2220 4334 or www.railway.co.th. War Museum (หอศิลป์และพิพิธภัณฑ์สงครามโลกครั้งที่ 2), located near the River Khwae Bridge, displays a collection of weapons, tools and utensils as well as skeletons of the Allied POWs and wartime photographs. Part of the museum serves as an art gallery displaying collections of postage stamps, old postcards, gems and jewellery. Open daily during 8.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Admission is Bt30. For further details, please call Tel. 0 3451 2596. Wat Tham Mangkon Thong (วัดถ้ำมังกรทอง) is located at the foot of a hill some 7 km. from the provincial town on the Mae Klong River. The temple was built in 1904 and named ‘Mangkon Thong’ or ‘golden dragon’ after the dragon staircase of 95 steps leading up to a small cave – Tham – on top of the hill. There is a large boulder shaped to look like a lion’s face at the mouth of the cave. The temple is famous for the so-called ‘floating nun’ who floats while meditating on the water. Admission (donation) is Bt10. To get there, turn left off Saeng Chu To Road from in front of the City Hall for some 1.5 km. and cross the bridge over the Mae Klong River to the temple. Giant Rain Tree (ต้นจามจุรียักษ์) is grown on the way to Amphoe Dan Makham Tia at Ban Kasikam, Mu 5 Tambon Ko Samrong, some 3 km. from Wat Tham Mangkon Thong. Enter the Royal Thai Army’s Division of Veterinary and Agriculture 1 via Wat Tham Muni Nat and turn right. The giant rain tree is more than 100 years old with a trunk large enough to be encircled by 10 people. The average radius of its crown is 25.87 metres and the diameter of its shadow is approximately 51.75 metres while the height of its canopy is 20 metres and the large shady crown covers a total area of approximately2,416 sq.m. Tham Maduea (ถ้ำมะเดื่อ) is a cave located within Wat Tham Maduea, Tambon Ban Kao, approximately 40 km. from Kanchanaburi. To get there, from Ban Kao Police Post, cross the Khwae Noi River and follow Highway 3445 for 8 km. to Sai Yok Camp, enter the camp for some 3 km. Please contact the temple upon arrival for lighting within the spacious cave with spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. The visit takes about 1 hour. Chong Kai War Cemetery (สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรช่องไก่), another war cemetery smaller than the one at Don Rak, is located near Kanchanaburi Pier on the Khwae Noi River, some 2 km. from Kanchanaburi. A former site of a large POW camp, it is accessible by crossing the Somdet Phra Sangkharat Yannasangwon Bridge. It contains the remains of 1,740 Allied POWs who were mostly British soldiers. Wat Tham Khao Pun (วัดถ้ำเขาปูน) is located 2 km. beyond Chong Kai War Cemetery and approximately 6 km. from Kanchanaburi. This is another former site of a large POW camp during WWII. There is a medium cave within the temple housing a large Buddha image and a hilltop image of Phra Sangkatchai, with a river flowing by behind the temple. Suan Somdech Phra Srinagarindra Park (สวนสมเด็จพระศรีนครินทร์ – สวนหิน) is located at Thung Nakkharat, Tambon Nong Ya, within the Kanchanaburi Agricultural and Technological College, covering a total area of 600 rai. It is known among the locals as ‘Suan Hin’ or ‘Rock Garden’ due to the fact that there are natural rocks of various shapes and sizes around the area. The park is also a natural habitat of various plant species. To get there, from Saeng Chu To Road, cross Somdet Phra Sangkharat Yannasangwon Bridge and continue for about 9 km. via Chong Kai War Cemetery and not far beyond Wat Tham Khao Pun. Wat Tham Phu Wa (วัดถ้ำพุหว้า), a subsidiary of Wat Pak Nam located at Tambon Nong Ya in a peaceful and shady atmosphere is surrounded by scenic mountains and forests. The temple houses a cave with picturesque stalagmites and stalactites, which also serves as Phra Ubosot or ordination hall and contains a principal Buddha image in the gesture of meditation. To get there, follow Highway 3229 to around Km. 17. Animal Shelter (สวนสัตว์เลี้ยงกาญจนบุรี) located at Ban Phu Pradu, Tambon Nong Bua, some 20 km. from Kanchanaburi, is accessible by Highway 3229 with a turn for 3 km. between Km. 16 – 17. The animal shelter covers a total area of 38 rai and was relocated from Thung Si Kan and houses mostly dogs, as well as cats, cows, buffaloes, goats and sheep. Dogs are available for adoption. Open daily during 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. for more information, please call Tel. 08 1914 3444, 08 1763 3467. Ban Kao National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติ บ้านเก่า) located on the Khwae Noi River at Tambon Ban Kao, Amphoe Mueang, is approximately 35 km. from Kanchanaburi along Highway 323, turn left into Highway 3229 and turn right into Highway 3455 for about 3 km. Another 1 km. from the entrance at Wat Tha Po will lead to the first prehistoric site museum in Thailand where human skeletons and artefacts such as stone axes, ornaments and pottery were unearthed in situ in 1963. The museum is open daily during 9.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. Admission is Bt30. For further information, please call Tel. 0 3465 4058. Kanchanaburi Cultural Centre (ศูนย์วัฒนธรรมจังหวัดกาญจนบุรี), located inside Rajabhat University Kanchanaburi, Tambon Nong Bua, on the Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok route (Highway 323) is some 15 km. from the provincial town. The ground floor exhibits household utensils and tools for daily use as well as fishing gear. The upstairs houses exhibition rooms on history, religions and traditions, old Thai scriptures and various art objects. There are excavation pits nearby. The cultural centre is open daily, except for Wednesdays, during 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. For further details, please contact the Office of Arts and Culture, Rajabhat University Kanchanaburi, Tel. 0 3463 7227 – 8 ext. 650, Fax. 0 3463 3224. Wat Tham Phutthawat (วัดถ้ำพุทธาวาส) (Tham Phu Phra – ถ้ำพุพระ or Wat Tham Khun Phaen – วัดถ้ำขุนแผน) is a spacious cave located on top of the hill. Legend has it that the cave was where Khun Phaen – a hero from Thai literature – performed the rite to endue the corpse of his baby son with supernatural power. The temple is situated on the Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok route (Highway 323) Turn left for another 1 km. between Km. 7 – 8 diagonally opposite Rajabhat University Kanchanaburi. There is a regular bus running on the Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok route passing the entrance to the temple, another 1-km walk will lead to the temple.
Wat Pa Lelai (วัดป่าเลไลยก์), known locally as Wat Pha Ok (วัดผ่าอก) was built in the Ayutthaya Period. The Mondop – a square building – once enshrined a seated Buddha image in the gesture of subduing Mara, which was drilled through the chest – ‘Pha Ok’ in Thai. An image of the Buddha receiving offerings from a monkey and an elephant known as ‘Palilayaka’ - Pa Lelai - was later constructed to replace the former one. Remains of architecture within the temple include Mondop, Wihan and round brick Chedi with clay mortar and cement coating. Wat Khun Phaen (วัดขุนแผน), from the side entrance of Wat Pa Lelai toward the training camp of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, is an abandoned temple built in the Ayutthaya Period. The complex included Phra Prang, which was the principal building of the temple, remains of which are still to be seen, Phra Ubosot, directional and satellite Chedis, and Wihan. Wat Mae Mai (วัดแม่หม้าย) was built in the Ayutthaya Period and located some 300 metres to the east of Wat Khun Phaen. There are 2 groups of architectural remains. The remains in the north include a large round Chedi situated on a plinth and rectangular west-facing Wihan. The remains in the south include a medium-scale east-facing Wihan, satellite Chedis and rectangular boundary wall, with a so-called ‘Sa Lang Kraduk’ or ‘bone-washing’ pond in between. Ruins of Wat Nang Phim or Wat Kanchanaburi Kao are located nearby. Nine Army Battle Historical Park (อุทยานประวัติศาสตร์สงครามเก้าทัพ) is located at Thung Lat Ya in Tambon Chong Sadao, some 40 km. from Kanchanaburi. Take Highway 323 and turn into Highway 3199 (Kanchanaburi – Srinagarindra Dam) to Km. 24. The Park serves as a source of data on the historic nine-army battle under the royal command of King Rama I in defense of the kingdom against the invasion of King Bodawpaya of Burma in 1785. The battle at Thung Lat Ya contributed to Thailand’s national sovereignty having been sustained until the present. The exhibition building houses dioramas of the battle scenes and a sand table displaying the topography as well as route taken by the Burmese troops. There is an observation tower for visitors to better understand how to take advantage of the topography in the battle. Open daily during 8.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Admission is Bt20. For further information, please contact the Office of Operations, Kanchanaburi Military District, Tel. 0 3458 9233 – 5 ext. 51015. (Advance contact is required.) Khao Chon Kai Training Camp (ค่ายฝึกเขาชนไก่) is located 150 km. from Bangkok and some 20 km. from Kanchanaburi, about 3 km. on Highway 3199 (Kanchanaburi – Srinagarindra Dam). It is a training camp for national army reserve students and, out of the training season, open for the public to visit historical sites as well as enjoy certain military activities such as tower jumping, shooting and jungle survival. Accommodation is available. For further details, please contact the Office of Tourism, Department of Territorial Defence, Tel. 0 2221 2871 or Khao Chon Kai Tourism Office, Tel. 0 3458 9237. [edit] Amphoe Sai YokMueang Sing Historical Park (อุทยานประวัติศาสตร์เมืองสิงห์), better known as Prasat Mueang Sing (ปราสาทเมืองสิงห์) is located some 7 km. from Ban Kao National Museum. Take Highway 323 (Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok), turn left at Km. 15, and continue for another 7 km. to Prasat Mueang Sing. The laterite sanctuary was constructed in the late Lop Buri Period ca. 11th – 13th century A.D. It has a square plan covering a total area of over 800 rai and surrounded by a laterite wall measuring 880 metres wide. Influenced by ancient Khmer culture, its principal tower is encircled by a laterite wall, moat and earthen mound and was built in a mixture of the folk school of art and Bayon style of King Jayavarman VII’s period in Cambodia. The Park is open daily during 8.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. Admission is Bt40. Please call Tel. 0 3458 5052 – 3 for further information. Sai Yok Elephant Village (ปางช้างไทรโยค), located at Mu 3 Ban Lum Phueng, Tambon Lum Sum, offers a 30-minute nature trek on elephant and rafting. There is a daily elephant show during 8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. To get there, from Kanchanaburi, take the Sai Yok – Thong Pha Phum route for some 30 minutes to around Km. 45, or a train and get off at Wang Pho Station. Open daily during 8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. For a group visit, please contact in advance. Tel. 0 3459 1255, 0 3459 1102, 08 1878 9979. Wang Pho Elephant Camp (แคมป์ช้างวังโพธิ์) is located near Wang Pho Railway Station. Elephant shows, elephant riding and rafting are provided for visitors. It opens at 8.00 a.m.–6.00 p.m. For further information, please call Tel. 0 3459 1018. To get there, take Highway 323 and turn into Highway 3343 for 7 km. Tham Krasae (ถ้ำกระแซ) is located by the Kanchanaburi – Namtok railway approximately 55 km. from the province on Highway 323 between Km. 29 – 30. The cave once provided home for the POWs during the construction of the Death Railway from Thailand to, then, Burma in WWII, now ending at the Namtok Station. Tham Krasae houses a sacred Buddha image and provides a scenic view from the mouth of the cave which overlooks the Khwae Noi River. This was the most difficult spot of construction as the rail lines had to skirt around the mountain and the Khwae Noi River is far below. Namtok Sai Yok Noi (น้ำตกไทรโยคน้อย), formerly known as Namtok Khao Phang (น้ำตกเขาพัง), is located within the Sai Yok National Park at Km. 46 on Highway 323 (Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok – Thong Pha Phum). It is one of several picturesque waterfalls in Kanchanaburi, with verdant natural surroundings especially in the rainy season around July – October when there is a lot of water. King Rama V visited this waterfall in 1888. A steam locomotive from WWII is displayed within the area as a memorial to the construction of the Death Railway via the waterfall toward Burma. A special train running on the Namtok or Waterfall Line to this waterfall is available on weekends and public holidays. For more details, please call Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334, or www.railway.co.th. There is also a local bus running by Namtok Sai Yok Noi leaving the bus station in Amphoe Mueang every 30 minutes during 6.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. Tham Wang Badan (ถ้ำวังบาดาล) or Tham Sawan Wang Badan (ถ้ำสวรรค์วังบาดาล), located within the area of Erawan National Park at Tambon Tha Sao, Amphoe Sai Yok, some 63 km. from the province. It is accessible from behind Namtok Sai Yok Noi where there is a direction sign of 3 km. to the national park’s safeguard unit, a location of the upstream of Namtok Sai Yok. Another 1,500–metre walk from the safeguard unit will lead to the cave with nature interpretation signs along the way. Tham Wang Badan is a small but deep cave of 500 metres long. It is a 2-storeyed limestone cave with a small hole at the mouth to be entered one by one. Its upper storey houses various chambers of beautiful stalagmites and stalactites of different shapes. The lower storey contains a stream to look like a tunnel of water under a large boulder. Tham Lawa (ถ้ำละว้า) , located across the Khwae Noi River approximately 75 km. from the province on Highway 323 between Km. 59 – 60. A chartered boat for 10 – 12 people is available from Pak Saeng Pier at Bt800 – 1,000, taking about 45 minutes. Tham Lawa is a picturesque cave discovered in 1953. It is very spacious inside with several chambers of breathtakingly sparkling stalagmites and stalactites of different images. Maize Maze (มหัศจรรย์เขาวงกตต้นข้าวโพด) is situated in the Agricultural and Cooperative Division, the Royal Thai Armed Forces Development Command (Chong Khao Khat), with an area of 26 rai (41,600 square metres). Both sides of the road inside the maze are covered with maize and there is also a sunflower field, so tourists do not have to travel further to Lop Buri. Moreover, a 34-foot high watchtower is available for visitors who love the challenge of heights. They can climb up to admire the beautiful scenery and take bird’s eye view photographs of “Maize Maze”. The maze opens at 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Admission for adult is Bt30 and children or students is Bt10. For further information, please contact Kanchanaburi Provincial Office at Tel. 0 3451 1020, or 0 3451 3206. To get there, take the Route Kanchanaburi – Thong Pha Phum (Highway 323) until you get to Km. 68, about 200 metres before arriving at the recently completed “The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum”. Hell Fire Pass Memorial Museum (ช่องเขาขาดพิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งความทรงจำ), located within the Division of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Office of Development, Armed Forces Development Command, between Km. 64 – 65 on Highway 323 (Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok – Thong Pha Phum). Established by the Australian Government, it houses a mini-theatre and collection of data, photographs, equipment and utensils used during the construction of the Death Railway. There is a nature trail leading to Hell Fire Pass which was part of the Death Railway where a stony mountain was drilled manually by the POWs to serve as a rail bed, traces of which still remain to be seen. The museum is open daily during 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Tel. 08 1814 7564, 08 1754 2098, 0 3453 1347, Fax. 0 3453 1347. Sai Yok National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติไทรโยค), covering a total area of 598,750 rai and proclaimed a national park on 27 October, 1980. Most of the area is limestone mountains with mixed deciduous forest and dry evergreen forest. The Park is a natural habitat of the world’s smallest bat species known as Kitti’s hog-nosed bat and the world’s latest freshwater crustacean species or queen crab (thaiphusa sirikit). The area is a former location of a Japanese camp during WWII as evident from traces of stoves. There are also traces of prehistoric human habitation from the Paleolithic Period. Places of interest within the national park include: Namtok Sai Yok Yai (น้ำตกไทรโยคใหญ่), otherwise known as Namtok Khao Chon (น้ำตกเขาโจน), features water leaping – ‘Chon’ in Thai – over a cliff down to the Khwae Noi River. It has a lot of water all year round, especially in the rainy season, and was once visited by King Rama V. Nature trails are also provided with a viewpoint of the waterfall from the Sai Yok hanging bridge. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. Food shops, floating accommodation, bamboo rafts, boats for rent, guesthouses, camp and camping ground are available. For further details, please contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, Tel. 0 2562 0760 or http://www.dnp.go.th. To get there, it is 104 km. from Kanchanaburi around Km. 82 on Highway 323 (Kanchanaburi – Sai Yok – Thong Pha Phum). Tham Daowadueng (ถ้ำดาวดึงส์), located in Amphoe Sai Yok some 110 km. from Kanchanaburi and about 1 km. uphill from the Khwae Noi River. To get there, use the same entrance as the Sai Yok National Park and turn left toward Wat Tham Daowadueng for approximately 2.5 km. The cave contains various forms of picturesque stalactites and stalagmites. It has good ventilation but is totally dark. A torch or lamp and a guide are needed. Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yanasampanno (วัดป่าหลวงตาบัว ญาณสัมปันโน), a tiger conservation area where various kinds of wild as well as domestic animals live together freely in the nature such as barking deer, deer, hog, gibbon, peafowl, red junglefowl, horse, water buffalo, goat, etc. Wildlife of different species will be seen living together in peace and being friendly to the monks and visitors. The temple is open during 8.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. (from 3.30 p.m. onward for tiger). For further information, please contact the Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yanasampanno Foundation, Tel. 0 3453 1557 Fax 0 3453 1558 or www.boonheng.com or www.tigertemple.org. [edit] Amphoe Thong Pha PhumHin Dat Hot Spring (พุน้ำร้อนหินดาด), formerly known as Kuimang Hot Spring (น้ำพุร้อนกุยมั่ง), located 130 km. from Kanchanaburi between Km. 105 – 106 on Highway 323. It is a well of natural hot water of 45 – 55 degrees Celsius discovered beside a stream of cool water by Japanese troops during WWII and two cement wells were then constructed at the site. It is believed that the water from this hot spring has a healing property for various ailments such as beriberi and rheumatism. A hot spring bath in the well is available. Namtok Pha Tat (น้ำตกผาตาด), a large waterfall within the area of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park located 140 km. from Kanchanaburi. The picturesque 3–tiered waterfall originates from a small creek on the Kala Range. Each of its 3 tiers is wide and breathtakingly high, with a lot of water in the late rainy season. It has serene and verdant surroundings. To get there, take Highway 323 and turn between Km. 105 – 106 toward the same direction as Hin Dat Hot Spring and continue for some 10 km. further. Namtok Pha Sawan (น้ำตกผาสวรรค์), a large and breathtakingly beautiful 7-tiered waterfall located in deep jungle some 155 km. from Kanchanaburi. It is accessible by a 40-minute walk. The topmost tier is approximately 80 metres high. The waterfall is most beautiful during July – January. To get there, take Highway 323 (Kanchanaburi – Thong Pha Phum), turn at Km. 110 via Ban Sahakon Nikhom for 15 km. and turn right into a dirt road for another 13 km. It is also accessible by a 40-minute walk from Namtok Pha Tat, or from Namtok Huai Mae Khamin, drive pass Noen Sawan Mine and Ban Saphan Lao for a distance of 42 km. and turn left for 13 km. at the junction near the reforestation project area to the parking lot. Another 40-minute walk will lead to the waterfall. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for the rainy season.
Thong Pha Phum National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติทองผาภูมิ), located within the area of Pa Huai Khayeng and Pa Khao Chang Phueak reserved forests covering a total area of approximately 700,000 rai, some 60 km. to the west of Amphoe Thong Pha Phum on Highway 3272. There are many spots of interest including 2 viewpoints at Doi Tong Palae which is about 300 metres uphill from where Namtok Chokkadin is visible, and Noen Kut Doi which is accessible by car and offers a panoramic view of the mountains, Vajiralongkorn Dam and Khao Chang Phueak – the national park’s highest peak. There are 3 nature trails to waterfalls; namely, Namtok Chokkadin, Namtok Pha Pae and Namtok Chet Mit. These waterfalls are located in the evergreen forest of Tambon Pilok which is a former location of tin and wolfram mines on the Thai – Burmese border. A four-wheel drive car and hired guide will be needed. To get there, from Kanchanaburi, follow Highway 323 to Amphoe Thong Pha Phum and turn into Highway 3272 (Thong Pha Phum – Pilok Mine) for some 57 km. to Thong Pha Phum National Park’s headquarters. The road, though asphalted, climbs up the mountain with several sharp curves; drivers will have to drive carefully. Accommodation and camping ground is available. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. For further details, please call Tel. 08 1382 0359 or Thong Pha Phum National Park, P.O. Box 18, Amphoe Thong Pha Phum, Kanchanaburi 21110. Pilok Mine (เหมืองปิล็อก), located in Tambon Pilok some 70 km. to the west of Amphoe Thong Pha Phum along Highway 3272. There used to be tin and wolfram mines on the Tanao Si Range which forms a natural boundary between Thailand and Myanmar. On the way, visitors can stop at “Pilok Hill”, about 32 km. from Thong Pha Phum where fruiting and decorative plants of the temperate zone are grown. There are numerous picturesque waterfalls nearby which are accessible by foot such as Namtok Chokkadin and Namtok Chet Mit. Visitors need to be careful because most of the routes are steep and winding. For futher details, please contact the One hundred and thirty fifth Military Border Patrol Company at Tel. 0 3459 9118 Namtok Thung Nang Khruan (น้ำตกทุ่งนางครวญ), located approximately 190 km. from Kanchanaburi at Ban Thung Nang Khruan, Tambon Chalae, within the area of Khuean Srinagarindra Dam. It is a large 7-tiered limestone waterfall amid verdant and shady intact natural surroundings. There is water all year round which cascades down high cliffs, some of which are more than 35 metres high. To get there, take Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum – Sangkhla Buri), turn right at Km. 26 (noticing the white Buddha image at the intersection) and continue for 15 km. along the alternate asphalt and laterite road to Ban Thung Nang Khruan, turn for 3 km. into the entrance to the waterfall. A walk for another 1 km. or 30 minutes will lead to the 1st tier of the waterfall. A four-wheel drive vehicle or pick up truck and local guide will be needed. Lam Khlong Ngu National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติลำคลองงู), named after a creek that snakes through the jungle, eroding limestone cliffs along the way and turning them into large caves and grottoes with attractive stalagmites and stalactites. There are many beautiful caves in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park such as: Tham Sao Hin (ถ้ำเสาหิน), located 6 km. from the mouth of Lam Khlong Ngu which flows through the cave. Tham Sao Hin houses a floor-to-ceiling column formed by the joining of stalagmites and stalactites, measuring 62.5 metres high, which is the tallest rock column ever found in Thailand. There are also other spectacular stalagmites and stalactites of different forms within the cave. To get there, the cave is accessible by a boat sailing northbound from Srinagarindra Dam to the mouth of Lam Khlong Ngu. A walk for another 6 km. or some 2 hours will lead to the cave, with several breathtaking waterfalls originating from Lam Khlong Ngu along the way. To get there by car, start from Namtok Erawan via Tham Phra That to Namtok Huai Mae Khamin, continue for another 1½ hours to Ban Phu Toei and walk on for approximately 3 hours to the cave. The walking trail will lead through scenic valleys and cliffs. Visitors to Tham Sao Hin need to be adventure-lovers who are physically fit. Guidance by a national park official or local guide is necessary. February – April is the suitable period for visiting the cave, as the water level inside will be very high in the rainy season. Tham Nok Nang Aen (ถ้ำนกนางแอ่น), located around the middle section of Lam Khlong Ngu at Mu 5 Ban Khao Phra In, Tambon Chalae. It is a spacious cave approximately 3 km. long, with the Lam Khlong Ngu flowing through it. It features the so-called Karst windows formed by the subsidence of the cave’s ceiling, which divided the cave into 3 roomy chambers that look like 3 connected train carriages. The cave is home to a large flock of swallows – Nok Nang Aen in Thai – and houses spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. To get there, take the same route as Tham Sao Hin and continue for another 6 km. from Ban Phu Toei to Ban Khao Phra In, turn right into a dirt road for another 3 km. and walk further for some 30 minutes to the cave. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended, or rent an ‘I Taek’ – adapted from a local ploughing vehicle – from Ban Khao Phra In. Otherwise take Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum – Sangkhla Buri), turn right at Km. 26 (Phuttho Intersection) via Namtok Thung Nang Khruan until getting to Ban Huai Suea, continue toward Ban Phu Toei and turn left into a dirt road for 3 km. From the parking area, a walk of some 30 minutes will lead to the cave. Please contact the national park’s official or villagers for guidance. Advance arrangements as well as preparation for physical fitness is suggested. Tham Namtok (ถ้ำน้ำตก), similar to Tham Sao Hin and Tham Nok Nang Aen in that it is a cave with a creek flowing through it. It features underground water cascading down the rock to form a 17-tiered waterfall, with the tallest tier being some 20 metres high. There are also spectacular stalagmites and stalactites in various forms throughout the 2,710 metres long cave. To get there, visiting the cave is not recommended in the rainy season as the water level inside will be very high. Please contact the national park official for guidance. Advance arrangements and preparations are suggested. Tham Yai (ถ้ำใหญ่), a large spacious cave with a mouth of approximately 50 metres wide. The chamber inside can accommodate thousands of people. It is the province’s largest cave located about 1 km. from Tham Namtok. Visiting caves in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park needs advance arrangement of itinerary, necessary equipment for cave exploration, and preparation of physical fitness. A local guide is a must. March – May is the most appropriate period for visiting the caves as the water level inside will be very high in the rainy season. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. For further details, please contact the Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, P.O. Box 4, Thong Pha Phum, Kanchanaburi 71180.
[edit] Amphoe Sangkhla BuriSangkhla Buri is a district bounded by Myanmar, approximately 215 km. from the city of Kanchanaburi. By travelling along Highway 323, passing mountains near Vajiralongkorn Dam, an attractive reservoir with beautiful scenery. Furthermore, Amphoe Sangkhla Buri is situated in the place where three rivers: Huai Song Ka Lia, Huai Bi Khli and Huai Ran Ti, join and lead to the Khwae Noi River. That’s why we call the point “Sam Prasop” (the confluence of three rivers). In addition, Mons have settled in this district so visitors can learn about the typical Mon ancient culture and traditions here. Namtok Dai Chong Thong (น้ำตกไดช่องถ่อง) This waterfall is located in Khao Laem National Park on Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum-Sangkhla Buri) between Km. 32-33. Before arriving at Namtok Kroeng Krawia, you will see a sign leading to Namtok Dai Chong Thong on your left. Go ahead about 500 metres then turn right and go straight on for about 500 metres. After that, travel on foot for about 600 metres before reaching the medium-sized waterfall flowing to the Mae Klong Dam with fertile green forest which looks very attractive, especially in the rainy season. Namtok Kroeng Krawia (น้ำตกเกริงกระเวีย) The waterfall is located in Khao Laem National Park on Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum-Sangkhla Buri) between Km. 32-33, a little further from Namtok Dai Chong Thong. Approximately 191 km. from Amphoe Mueang, this small waterfall is the point where water cascades down from different directions, and it is a beautiful place to rest and relax on the way to Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. Khao Laem National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาแหลม) About 190 km. from Kanchanaburi on Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum-Sangkhla Buri), the national park is situated at Km. 40, about 30 km. to Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. With an area of 815 sq. km. covering Amphoe Thong Pha Phum and Amphoe Sangkhla Buri including forest, Khwae Noi River and Vajiralongkorn Dam (or Khao Laem Dam), it is a peaceful pleasant park with Huai Kateng Cheng flowing through it. Tourists can camp and start the journey there to learn about nature along the waterfall. Namtok Kateng Cheng (น้ำตกกะเต็งเจ็ง) This medium-sized waterfall has 23 levels, and each level has its own different unique form. The distance from the first level to the highest one is about 2 km.; therefore, it is suitable for visual studies of various kinds of forests; banana forest, bamboo forest, evergreen forest and mixed deciduous forest. Moreover, especially at the sixteenth level a large beautiful tree exists and another huge one requires at least 13 adults holding hands to encircle. To experience this waterfall, tourists have to go on foot from the national park office taking about 2-3 hours. After about 2 km., they will get to the first level of the waterfall. Climbing up to the higher levels, they will find a sight-seeing point at the top of the waterfall where they can see Khao Laem Dam at a bird’s eye view. After that, visitors can choose to return by foot and take a jungle trek through the fertile virgin forest instead of the one they depart from. During the journey, they will pass fascinating fern forest, Rakam (zalacca) forest, lichi and Mafai forest. Furthermore, it is pleasant to hear the echoing sound of water falling over the rocks all the time. However, the rainy season is not a good time to visit this waterfall. Tourists should ask for official guides of the park office. Accommodation service and camping is available. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. For further information, please contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, at Tel. 0 2562 0760 or at the website ‘http://www.dnp.go.th’. Mon Bridge (สะพานมอญ) Located in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, it is also called “Saphan Uttamanuson.” This is the longest wooden bridge in Thailand with the length of 850 metres crossing Huai Song Ka Lia where people in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri and Mon Village travel back and forth. This place is another great sight-seeing point of Vajiralongkorn Dam where many creeks; Song Ka Lia, Bi Khli and Ran Ti, meet together leading to “Sam Prasop’. Wat Wang Wiwekaram (วัดวังก์วิเวการาม) About 6 km. from Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, this temple is the residence of Luangpho Uttama, a respected monk of Thais and Mons including Karens and Burmese living in the area. On the riverside, an elegant marble Buddha image named “Luangpho Khao” is situated in the Wihan (Buddhist assembly hall). Besides, 1 km. from the temple, the Buddha Gaya Chedi with a square-formed base is situated containing relics of Lord Buddha’s right thumb. Near the pagoda, there are lots of shops selling products from Myanmar such as clothing, cosmetics, Burmese talcum powder and wooden furniture at low prices. Every year, in February, there is a festival to celebrate Luangpho Uttama’s birthday. Activities include religious rituals, Muai Khat Chueak boxing, performances from the Cultural Folk Club such as Mon classical dance, Karen’s Ram Tong, etc. In the festival, people will get dressed in Thai-Raman typical costumes and prepare sets of food offerings to carry on their heads and give to the monks. Namtok Takhian Thong (น้ำตกตะเคียนทอง) The waterfall is in the area of Tanao Si Mountains, the Thai-Burmese border area in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, a part of Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary. Its water source is from Myanmar flowing along the boundary mountains leading to Thailand at Huai Song Ka Lia. Due to the completeness of the forest, water flows all year round. It takes 30 minutes to get to the first level of the waterfall with a smooth route covered with bamboo, rattan, ferns and various kinds of large trees. Sometimes, it is better to take a shortcut passing along the stream. Tourists can experience the different beauty of cascades where water flows from many directions and disperses to the basin or the wide ground. To get there, take Highway 323, go straight on for 4 km. until you get to Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. Pass the intersection on the right leading to the Three Pagodas Pass then take the route Sangkhla Buri-Three Pagodas Pass until Km. 12-13 where you will see a sign, and the waterfall is on your right. Turn into the intersection on the laterite road for 9 km. to the car park. After that, go on foot for about 30 minutes to the first level of the waterfall at the Safeguard Unit. It is recommended that you ask for further details from officials. To stay overnight, a letter to ask for permission must be submitted 15 days in advance to the Director of the Wildlife Conservation Office at the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, Bangkok or Tel. 0 2561 4292-3 ext. 765.
To get there, take the route Sangkhla Buri-Three Pagodas Pass and turn right at Km. 16 near the roadside shelter. Drive along the dirt road for about 800 metres then turn right. Go on for 200 metres until you arrive at the meditation centre where the cave is situated. Tourists can ask for more information about the cave from the monks who reside in the meditation centre area.
In the past, the Three Pagodas Pass was called “Hin Sam Kong” (three piles of rocks) respected by Thais who always passed through the border. Later, in 1929 Phra Si Suwannakiri, Sangkhla Buri Governor at that time, led villagers to build three small-sized pagodas. In addition, the Three Pagodas Pass was also one of the crucial military routes of Siam and Burma. At present, lots of shops selling products from Myanmar are placed around the border where tourists can pass through to the Phaya Tong Su Market in Myanmar, a border market full of Burmese products. The pass opens 8.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Sangkhla Buri Jungle Trek This service is offered to tourists by hotels in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. The programme starts with rowing boats along Huai Song Ka Lia, riding elephants and rafting. Please contact tour agencies in Kanchanaburi in advance or get more information at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Central Region Office, Region 1, or call Tel. 0 3462 3691 and 0 3451 2500. Namtok Khli Ti (น้ำตกคลีตี้) ‘Khli Ti’ in Karen language means ‘Suea Thon’ (lone tiger). The waterfall is located in Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary, and its water source flows from the top of Khao Di Ka near the sanctuary. To travel to the waterfall, go on foot about 2 days from the Khli Ti Karen Village. Crews and local guide are needed. Moreover, Namtok Khli Ti Lang (น้ำตกคลีตี้ล่าง) is located above Khwae Yai Lake near Khao Ngu Stream. It takes 2½ hours to get there by boat from Kradan Pier or Mong Krathae Pier. Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าทุ่งใหญ่นเรศวร) It covers the area in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri in Kanchanaburi and Amphoe Umphang in Tak. The topography composes mountains of which the highest peak is Khao Yai located in the central part of the area. The sanctuary is the water source of many rivers covered with various kinds of forest including savanna, mixed deciduous forest, deciduous dipterocarp forest, evergreen forest and different kinds of wildlife. To get there, some parts of the road are not very good. Take the route Thong Pha Phum-Sangkhla Buri near Huai Suea to Khli Ti Village, a distance of 42 km. After that, there is an intersection leading to the Wildlife Sanctuary Headquarters at Huai Song Thai another 40 km. Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary is the place for people interested in learning about nature. Visitors have to submit a letter to ask for permission 15 days in advance to the Director of Wildlife Conservation Office; National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, Bangkok at Tel. 0 2561 4292-3 ext. 765.
[edit] Amphoe Si SawatKhao Namphu Wildlife Conservation Promotion and Development Station (สถานีพัฒนาและส่งเสริมการอนุรักษ์สัตว์ป่าเขาน้ำพุ) is situated in Tambon Tha Kradan, Amphoe Si Sawat, at Km. 38-39. It is the nature education centre under responsibility of the Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary. The learning programme includes wildlife breeding for research studies and constructing 2 routes for natural exploration to give knowledge about the forest. The first route is for people interested to learn about plants and wildlife which takes about 3 hours to travel in and out. Another route is called Noen Din Daeng, which takes about an hour for a return trip. Both routes have different geographical features; creeks, plains and hills. Camping shelters for youth are available, but you have to ask for permission first by submitting a letter to the Director of the Wildlife Conservation Office; National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, Bangkok, at Tel. 0 2561 4292-3 ext. 765. Otherwise, contact the Khao Namphu Wildlife Conservation Promotion and Development Station at P.O. Box 5, Lat Ya, Kanchanaburi 71190. Erawan National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเอราวัณ) Formerly called Khao Salop National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสลอบ), it was proclaimed a national park on 19 June, 1975, with an area of 373,735 rai (597,976,000 square metres). Later, its name was changed to Erawan National Park as the highest level of the waterfall, Namtok Erawan, looks like Elephant Erawan’s head. Interesting tourist attractions are as follows: Namtok Erawan (น้ำตกเอราวัณ) This waterfall is 65 km. from Amphoe Mueang, situated on the Khwae Yai riverside. The water source is from Huai Mong Lai flowing down from the top of the mountains and a 2,100-metre-high cliff. Namtok Erawan is 1,500 metres long, and it can be divided into 7 levels each of which has a swimming pond. Also, the Erawan nature study route is provided with a distance of 1,060 metres. It takes about 30 minutes to walk through montane forest, sight-seeing points and wonderful deciduous forest. It is a good experience to feel the refreshing nature and gain knowledge from the description signs provided. Shelters and camping are available for tourists in the park. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. For more details, please contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok at Tel. 0 2562 0760 or ‘http://www.dnp.go.th’. To get there,
Srinagarindra Dam (เขื่อนศรีนครินทร์) It is the largest rockfill dam with a clay core in Thailand, situated on the Khwae Yai River, approximately 4 km. from Namtok Erawan in the north of the Khwae Yai River. We can take advantage of this multi-purpose dam in irrigation, flood damage relief in the Mae Klong Basin, electricity generation, and fishery. The place above the dam ridge is suitable for relaxation, as it has some attractive sights. Srinagarindra Dam is 70 km. from the provincial city on Highway 3177 (Kanchanaburi-Si Sawat). Accommodation for tourists is provided at the dam. For further details, please contact the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), at Tel. 0 2436 6046-8. For accommodation and cruising restaurants, please contact Tel. 0 3457 4001 ext. 2455, 2457. Suan Wela Ramluek (สวนเวลารำลึก) It is a garden inside the Srinagarindra Dam with an area of 30 rai (48,000 square metres). EGAT constructed this garden in honour of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra, the Princess Mother, on the occasion of her 90th birthday anniversary on 21 October, 1990. The garden was built to place sculptures implying about ‘time’. For instance, a symbol of a sundial reminds people to be aware of the value of life which walks through time every minute. It is similar to Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother who always spent time valuably without wasting a second. The ground surrounding the garden is the place to sit down and relax by seeing the splendid view of Srinagarindra Dam. Tham Phra That (ถ้ำพระธาตุ) The cave is situated in the area of Erawan National Park, 8 km. from Namtok Erawan or 76 km. from the provincial city. Inside the cave, there are fascinating transparent stalagmites and stalactites. It takes about 30 minutes-1 hour to walk through this 20-metre-long cave. Visitors should contact forestry officials at the office on the foothill, asking for an official guide, and it is suggested to come to the cave before 3.00 p.m. Khuean Srinagarindra National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขื่อนศรีนครินทร์) It was announced on 23 December, 1981, to be a national park with an area of 953,500 rai (1,496,800,000 square metres). Interesting tourist attractions are as follows: Tham Sawan (ถ้ำสวรรค์) The cave has just been discovered in the area of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park, near Ban Ton Maphrao, Tambon Mae Krabung, Amphoe Si Sawat. The characteristic of the cave is a natural hole which is 9 metres wide, 9 metres high and 150 metres long. There are also prehistoric cave paintings. To get there, the cave is situated on the way from Namtok Huai Mae Khamin to Namtok Erawan. Turn right at Ban Ton Maphrao School and go straight on for 1.5 km. until getting to Ban Ton Maphrao. Take a car from the village to the entrance of the cave another 500 metres. A four-wheeled drive car and a local guide from Ban Ton Maphrao are suggested. Tham Neramit (ถ้ำเนรมิต) It is a massive cave divided into many rooms with amazing strangely-formed stalagmites and stalactites, located 10 km. before Namtok Huai Mae Khamin. Go along the way to Wat Tham Neramit for 2 km. and walk on for 300 metres. 4 km. from the cave; another three large caves; Tham Nam Mut, Tham Phra Prang and Tham Phra Kho, are situated. Please contact guides or Khuean Srinagarindra National Park officials. Travelling by a pick-up or four-wheeled drive car is recommended. Tham Nam Mut (ถ้ำน้ำมุด) It is situated in the area of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park in Ban Nam Mut, Tambon Mae Krabung. Its entrance is 15 metres in width and 10 metres in height. It contains a deep hole and stream continuously flowing out of the cave. Tham Phra Prang (ถ้ำพระปรางค์) It is another massive beautiful cave of Kanchanaburi, located in the area of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park in Ban Nam Mut, Tambon Mae Krabung. It is divided into many rooms with stalagmites and stalactites. To get there, take the route to Namtok Erawan, 11 km. before getting to Namtok Huai Mae Khamin. Turn left, pass through Wat Nam Mut for about 500 metres and park the car at the foothill behind the temple. Use the lane to climb up to the cave about 400 metres to reach the entrance of the cave. From the car park, in the northwest with a height of 130 metres, you can find Tham Phra Kho. Namtok Huai Mae Khamin (น้ำตกห้วยแม่ขมิ้น) It is situated near the National Park Office on the Srinagarindra Dam lakeside, 108 km. from Kanchanaburi. Covered with diverse kinds of plants, its water source is on the dry evergreen Kala Mountains in the east of the park flowing down to Srinagarindra Dam. It is one of the most beautiful cascades with 7 levels; named, Dong Wan, Man Khamin, Wang Na Pha, Chat Kaeo, Lai Chon Long, Dong Phisuea and Rom Klao. The national park has made a pathway for people climbing up to each level along the natural study route. Visiting the waterfall in October to April is suggested. Accommodation and camping site are available for tourists including restaurants and slide projecting at night. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children. For more details, contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, at Tel. 0 2562 0760 or www.dnp.go.th. To get there, By Car
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