SEARCHING FOR THE BEST BANGKOK TO KANCHANABURI TOURS?
We’ve visited Kanchanaburi a few times and we have done a few day trips from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi ourselves. So we know what makes for a great tour package!
Known for it’s infamous bridge over the river Kwai also referred to as the death railway, visiting Kanchanaburi as a day trip from Bangkok is a great way to escape the often chaotic streets of the City.
The BEST RATED Kanchanaburi tours from Bangkok are featured in this guide. From private tours to budget group tours and combined tours. Everything is here.
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Our favorite tour is The River Kwai and Erawan Falls tour because of it’s Floating Bungalow overnight stay. And this tour that combines visiting an elephant sanctuary.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
When we first did a Kanchanaburi day trip, we booked a tour that focused on the Death Railway and we got to ride over the river Kwai. It was a pretty obvious choice because that train ride seemed to always show up up when searching for Kanchanaburi tours.
However, we quickly discovered that Kanchanaburi had loads more to offer. And while the train over river Kwai is definitely a Kanchanaburi highlight that should not be missed, it was just overshadowing all the other amazing tours and things to do in Kanchanburi.
This Bangkok to Kanchanaburi tour guide features a bit of everything. There’s private tours and group tours (perfect if you’re on a budget), tours featuring the Death railway train ride and tours that combine the train ride with other places such as elephant sanctuaries and one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls.
The highlight tour on this list? A 2 day tour with an overnight stay in a Floating Hotel!!
Extra time in Bangkok?
Read this guide. You’ll find the best rated day trip tours from Bangkok. From tropical beach getaways to cultural tours – and everything in between.
11 Best Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Below is a list with all the Kanchanaburi day trips from Bangkok featured in this list. The list includes Kanchanaburi tour prices and the duration of each tour.
This table will give you a quick overview of all the tours and help you narrow down which tour best suites your Bangkok travel itinerary.
Tour | Duration | Price |
---|---|---|
1. Historical Day Tour to River Kwai | 10 hours | $47 p.p |
2. Erawan Park & Kanchanaburi + train ride | 14 hours | $80 p.p |
3. Elephant Sanctuary & Kanchanaburi Highlights | 10 hours | $92 p.p |
4. Death Railway & River Kwai Bridge (Private Tour) | 8 hours | $155 p.p |
5. River Kwai & Hellfire Pass (Private Tour) | 11 hours | $157 p.p |
6. Erawan Park & Elephant Feeding (Private Tour) | 11 hours | $165 p.p |
7. Kanchanaburi Tour with Floating Market Visit (Private Tour) | 11 hours | $173 p.p |
8. Erawan Waterfall & Kanchanaburi (Private Tour) | 12 hours | $175 p.p |
9. River Kwai and Death Railway (Private Tour from Kanchanaburi) | 8 hours | $185 x4 pax |
10. Elephant Sanctuary & Erawan Waterfall Tour | 12 hours | $182 p.p |
11. 2-Day River Kwai Highlights & Jungle Rafts Floating Hotel | 2 days | $225 p.p |
Best Kanchanaburi Day Tours From Bangkok
Here are the 11 best day trips and tours from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. If you book any of these tours you have the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Note: some of the tours in this list include visits to waterfalls. Make sure to pack a swimsuit, towel, and fresh clothes if you intend swimming.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Historical Day Tour to River Kwai
⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 10 Hours | PRICE: $47 ↳ BOOK NOW
No visit to Bangkok is complete without experiencing the beauty of Kanchanaburi and learning the story behind the River Kwai bridge also known as the Death Railway.
Not only will you get to ride the slow-moving train over the river and along the ridge of huge lime-stone mountains offering exceptional scenes, but you also have the option to ride a speed boat along the river.
“Overall the day was really interesting, it was nice to be able to experience the train ride along the railway which at the end had lovely views. Would definitely recommend to people interested in war history.”
Claire (Read more reviews)
This is one of the best day trips from Bangkok.
It’s a full day of learning, creating memories, and the train ride is an surreal experience delivering epic scenes of the river Kwai and a backdrop of daunting limestone cliffs.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Kanchanaburi Overnight tour in Floating Bungalows
2-Day River Kwai Highlights & Jungle Rafts Floating Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 2 Days | PRICE: $225 ↳ BOOK NOW
Spend the night in a bungalow floating on the River Kwai, before getting here you’ll get to experience the ride along the tracks of the death railway.
We did this Kanchanaburi 2 day tour and can personally say it was amazing. You see, getting from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi takes around 3 hours. So it makes sense to spend a night there if you have the time.
“We enjoyed it very much! The hotel was very impressive and swimming or floating in the river was our highlight! Also very nice and something different that there is no electricity and lamps are lit in the evening. In the morning there was an elephant that you could feed, also very, very cool! ????“
Tabias (Read more reviews)
As the sun goes down, lamps are lit up and you get to enjoy an amazing and tasty dinner.
Make sure to wake up early the next day. You’ll get to see an elephant that comes to bathe in the river. And the day follows with a visit to Erawan, an enchanted waterfall with 7 levels of emerald pools.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Only want the floating bungalows? No problem. You can book a stay in this amazing accommodation without doing the tour. The price also includes free breakfast and free dinner!!
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Erawan Park & Kanchanaburi + train ride
⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 14 Hours | PRICE: $80 ↳ BOOK NOW
It’s a 14 hour tour that transports you from the busy streets of Bangkok to the scenic Kanchanaburi.
The day includes taking a moderate trek through the jungle and relaxing at the beautiful Erawan Falls. But before this, you’ll get to experience the legendary train ride across the river Kwai.
“Very enjoyable day out. Eddie who was our guide was exceptional. Very engaging and made the whole trip much more interesting. The highlight of the trip was the waterfalls. We were given 3 hours to walk up and down and swim.”
Alastair (Read more reviews)
If you’re interested in the history of Kanchanaburi and the story behind the death railway, this is a great tour because it includes a guide and visits the war museum.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Elephant Sanctuary & Kanchanaburi Highlights
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 10 Hours | PRICE: $92 ↳ BOOK NOW
Visit a sanctuary for elephants that were injured while working or retired from work and help take care of the elephants by feeding and bathing them.
The highlight of this day trip from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is the visit to ElephantsWorld. An ethical sanctuary that helps in the rehabilitation of elephants. You’ll get to bath and feed these gentle giants which is very interesting.
“10/10 recommend. Elephants are incredibly happy and the young one really lights up when it’s time for the med bath and river swim. You could watch the baby play all day long.“
Daniel (Read more reviews)
After a lunch break which is included in the price, the tour follows with a visit to the Bridge on the River Kwai, which is part of the infamous Death Railway, built by prisoners during World War II.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Death Railway & River Kwai Bridge (Private Tour)
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 8 Hours | PRICE: $155 ↳ BOOK NOW
Experience the history of Kanchanaburi and learn the story behind the construction of the bridge over the River Kwai on this private tour.
With an almost perfect review score, this Kanchanaburi tour from Bangkok combines the best historic activities in an informative 8 hour tour. You’ll get to ride the infamous train along the tracks that were built by prisoners of war by forced labour and horrific conditions.
“Harry, our guide, was extremely committed and constantly provided us with valuable information about the construction of the “Death Railway”, the living conditions of the Allied prisoners of war and their exploitation by the Japanese troops. A better guide cannot be imagined!”
Kurt (Read more reviews)
Lunch is included in the price of this tour. And on your way to Bangkok from Kanchanaburi, stop for a guided 20 minute tour offering exceptional views.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
River Kwai & Hellfire Pass (Private Tour)
⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 11 Hours | PRICE: $157 ↳ BOOK NOW
Explore Kanchanaburi’s main attractions in a day. Walk across the River Kwai bridge, take a train ride on the Death Railway, hike through Hellfire Pass, and visit the Hellfire Memorial. Don’t forget to enjoy the scenic Saiyoke Noi waterfalls on your way back.
“Brilliant day, our guide ‘A’ was informative and catered to our every needs. All the museums were excellent and thought provoking. Train trip was particularly good. Lunch time stop at restaurant was good.“
Nigel (Read more reviews)
After lunch and a 45-minute drive, visit Hell Fire Pass and Memorial. Finish the day at the scenic Saiyoke Noi waterfalls before returning to your Bangkok accommodation.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Erawan Park & Elephant Feeding (Private Tour)
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 11 Hours | PRICE: $165 ↳ BOOK NOW
If hiking 7 cascades and swimming in waterfalls, interacting with elephants, visiting legendary train tracks and a bit of WW2 history sounds good to you, then consider this tourist favorite Kanchanaburi full day tour.
This private tour combines the very best highlights and not to be missed things to do in Kanchanaburi.
“Great tour. A packed day with many experiences. The waterfalls are beautiful and a climb up to the 7th is worth the effort. Can only recommend the tour, nothing to improve, everything great!”
Silke (Read more reviews)
After pick up, this full day tour start by hiking the 7 waterfalls at Erawan falls. It’s a magical place where you can relax and swim in the beautiful pools. After a tasty lunch, you’ll get to interact with Elephants at an ethical sanctuary. Followed by a stop at the bridge over the River Kwai.
Remember to bring your swimwear and a change of clothes in case you swim at Erawan Falls.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Kanchanaburi Tour with Floating Market Visit (Private Tour)
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 11 Hours | PRICE: $173 ↳ BOOK NOW
Experience the Maeklong train market as it unfolds when the train passes through. And ride a longtail boat at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
But before this you’ll get to witness the iconic train at river Kwai and travel along an iconic part of these infamous train tracks.
“We had a wonderful, unforgettable day. Our guide Lek took great care of us at all times. She gave us a lot of information about Thailand’s history, took great photos of us at the best spots, organized the best seats on the train and got lots of delicious little things to eat and try along the way. We can highly recommend this day trip.!”
Andreas (Read more reviews)
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Erawan Waterfall & Kanchanaburi (Private Tour)
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 12 Hours | PRICE: $175 ↳ BOOK NOW
Discover Kanchanaburi highlights with this 12 hour tour. It’s the best rated Kanchanaburi tour with an almost perfect review score.
Tour starts with an organized pick up at your hotel in Bangkok and you’ll first experience the train passing over the famous river Kwai. After the historic activity, you’ll get to visit Erawan, Thailand’s most beautiful cascade.
There’s the option to hike (1500 meters) up to the top of the waterfall. We highly suggest going to the top cause its pretty amazing up there!!
“An obligatory stop if you are in Bangkok, the Erawan waterfalls are something that will leave you breathless (especially if you climb up to the seventh waterfall). The train ride is also fantastic. Highly recommended. Especially if you are lucky enough to have Patrick as your guide, the most helpful, kind and friendly person I have ever met.”
Leonardo (Read more reviews)
After an optional lunch break, there’s visit to Krasae Buddha cave and you’ll board the train to ride along the former railway for about 30 minutes.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
River Kwai and Death Railway (Private Tour from Kanchanaburi)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 8 Hours | PRICE: $185 (X4 Pax) ↳ BOOK NOW
If you’re already in Kanchanaburi, or have a means of transport to get there from Bangkok. then this is a tour you should consider.
It’s a private tour and the price shown is for 4 people so you can share the cost and works out quite cheap that way.
“As it was only two of us we felt like we had a private tour and we never felt rushed when looking around. We also went to a local restaurant for lunch but I think a lot of tour guides frequent the same place. Nonetheless the food was great and very good value! It was a great day out and we thoroughly enjoyed it!”
Angela (Read more reviews)
This tour includes visits to all the important historic sites in Kanchanaburi:
- Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
- River Kwai
- Tham Krasae Bridge railway station
- Tiger Cave Temple, Kanchanaburi
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi Tours
Elephant Sanctuary & Erawan Waterfall Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 12 Hours | PRICE: $182 ↳ BOOK NOW
Experience the nature side of Kanchanaburi. Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where you’ll get to bathe, feed and interact with these loving giants.
In contrast to all other tours in guide, there is no historic site, or visits to the bridge over the river Kwai. Instead you’ll get to experience the natural beauty of Kanchanaburi.
After a memorable experience with the loving elephants, you’ll trek through the jungle to reach Erawan falls and spend some time relaxing. Or take a refreshing dip in the enchanted emerald pool.
“Not only was this the highlight of my trike in Bangkok, it’s a highlight of my life! My tour guide Artit was amazing, and was able to really express his love for the elephants! The Erawan falls were stunning with plenty of opportunities to hike and swim. Highly recommend 10/10!”
AnnaBelle (Read more reviews)
The cascade at Erawan falls is spread over 7 levels. The higher you go, the less people you’ll find.
Tip: be sure to bring a change of clothes to have something fresh to wear after the elephant sanctuary. And also a swim suite for Erawan falls.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity starts.
Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION: 4 Hours | ↳ BOOK NOW
Slightly off topic because this isn’t a Bangkok to Kanchanaburi tour. However it is a unique culinary experience and is a great way to end the day.
Note: this tour starts at 7:00pm not midnight.
This evening tour throws you straight into Bangkok’s legendary street-food scene as you ride the colorful city’s backstreets and hidden spots. And what better way than do this on fun Tuk-Tuk.
“Gimao was an amazing tour guide; funny, informative, and patient! The tuk-tuk experience at night was so cool. And the food was fantastic, especially the rice noodle dish at Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai. I highly recommend you book this tour for a fun night out in Bangkok!”
Your Tuk-Tuk driver whizzes through the traffic and stops you at some incredible local restaurants to sample some of the best Thai cuisine. This tour is a complete package including all food and Tuk-Tuk transport. And the evening ends at a secret roof-top bar.
Note: You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hour(s) before the activity starts.
Want to Know Where to Stay in Kanchanaburi?
Spending a night or 2 in Kanchanaburi is the best way to experience all that this region has to offer. And there are some really great places to stay in Kanchanaburi which make the trip worthwhile just to spend a night in them.
Below are 3 recommendations from budget places to stay to unique stays that cost a bit more.
Budget: Home of River Kwai: It’s the best budget option with an impressive rating score.
Mid Range: Inchantreedoopool: Luxury at a great price. Complete with jungle views infinity pool.
Luxury
The Float House River Kwai Resort:
Worth the trip from Bangkok just to stay here.
How we efficiently plan our trips.
Planning a holiday can be overwhelming, especially for those hands-on in the process. Thankfully, technology has simplified the task, making it easier to organize trips to destinations like Thailand. Here are the resources we swear by:
BOOKING.COM: Our go-to for booking accommodation. It’s user-friendly, offers the best prices*, and boasts the largest selection of online properties.
*After trying various methods to find the best prices, including direct booking, calling accommodations, and comparing with other sites, Booking.com consistently provided the lowest prices. Guest reviews on the platform are invaluable for decision-making, especially regarding accommodation and tour bookings.
GET YOUR GUIDE: Our go to resource for planning activities is Get Your Guide. Here we find loads of interesting activities for the destinations we’re visiting. And it’s really easy. Just enter the name of the destination in the search bar and a list of activities with prices and review score comes up.
It’s almost like shopping for something on Amazon and the prices are also really competitive and most tours also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!!
HEY, just so you know…
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