Driving to Bridge over River Kwai

[pinky]

Hi, am looking to visit The Bridge over the River Kwai. Would prefer to drive there and not having a sat nav wondered if any of you could give me any advice?? How far is it, directions etc... Could do it via an organised trip but would prefer to do it myself. Thanks for any info.

[Vital Spark]

It's a great place to visit Pinky, and we've done the trip many times from near Hua Hin.

Take the main motorway north, go through Petchaburi then Ratchaburi (don't turn off to Bangkok!). You'll see signs to Nakhon Pathom. Before you get to NP you'll see a sign to Kanchanburi - it's left off the motorway. You'll then pass through Ban Pong and Kanchanburi is signposted from there. It's a pretty easy trip and may take you about 3 hours.

If you fancy a nice little stop-off on the way I'd suggest the Cowboy Cafe on the main road. It's about half distance from Hua Hin.

When you actually get to Kanchanburi, just continue through the town and the bridge is signposted. There's a car park not far from the bridge. You can also rent a long-tailed boat from there which will take you to one of the cemetaries and the Jeath museum. I think that just seeing the bridge is only part of the story. There's also quite a nice restaurant down steps to the right of the bridge - reasonable prices and a lovely view.

Have a lovely trip - it's well worth it.

VS

[PeteC]

Go here Pinky: http://maps.google.com/

- Click on 'get directions'.
- In "A" type in Hua Hin Thailand.
- In "B" type in Kanchanaburi Thailand.
- Hit the 'get directions' button

It will outline the entire route for you. Pete

[jayhawk874]

Is there a bus route that goes there?

[Norseman]

There are no direct bus or train-links between Hua Hin and Kanchanaburi.

You can however take the bus line Hua Hin- Nakon Ratchasima (Korat) and make a bus change in Nakhon Pathom.
The train between Hua Hin and Bangkok makes a stop in Ratcha Buri where you can change to the train to Kanchanaburi.

A much easier and faster way of going to Kanchanaburi will be if you rent a taxi or minibus to bring you there.
You can then also go to Hellfire Pass, which in my view is a must.

[Wanderlust]

There is quite a spectacular dam and reservoir outside of Kanchanaburi (the Srinakarin Dam) which is also well worth a visit to anyone who hasn't and the scenery all around the area is good so if you have a car you can just potter around and have a good time.

[pinky]

Thanks everyone.. some great advice there. Was a bit unsure of driving as didnt really have a clue which way to head but really looking forward to going now.
Thanks again..

[pfotoguy369]

Driving is a great way to see and discover "The real Thailand" You can stay at the Dam nice cottages. slight detour and you can go to the floating market.

And some beautiful temples along the way.

My one suggestion is to stay on the left side of the road. use the lane on the inside for passing only.