The bridge, also known as the Death Bridge and featured in a film, and the railway line running across it have a tragic history. During World War II, between 1942 and 1943, thousands of prisoners of war were killed under Japanese occupation while constructing this section of the railway, which was intended to connect Bangkok with Burma.

Try to be there when the train crosses the bridge – not directly on the bridge (although it's possible, there are parking spaces by the tracks), but on the riverbank to watch it pass. I also recommend walking the entire length of the Bridge on the River Kwai. On the other side, you'll find a large Chinese temple and the Tomb of the Chinese Soldier, both within easy walking distance.

If you have chosen a hotel in Kanchanaburi city center, you can probably reach the bridge easily on foot. Otherwise, you can hire a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle (some accommodations offer these to their guests).

How to get there

How do you get to the Bridge on the River Kwai? If you're staying in a hotel in Kanchanaburi, you can probably reach the bridge easily on foot. Otherwise, you can hire a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle (some accommodations offer these to their guests).