Bridge Over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi: Hours, Address, Bridge Over the River Kwai Reviews: 4/5
Bridge Over the River Kwai
Bridge Over the River Kwai
4
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
About
Allied prisoners of war during World War II were forced to build the 258-mile Death Railway by Japanese forces. About a hundred thousand conscripted Asian labourers and 16,000 prisoners of war died on the whole project.
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Learn moreTop ways to experience Bridge Over the River Kwai
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
146 within 3 miles

Kan Buri
243
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Steakhouse • Pizza • European

Keeree Tara Restaurant
391
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Thai • Vegetarian Friendly

Pai-Kan
42
0.2 mi$ • Asian • Thai • Vegetarian Friendly

Baan Peek Mai
18
0.2 mi$ • Thai • Vegetarian Friendly

Coffee Conner
28
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Cafe

By de River
29
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Thai

Ban Suan Bua Restaurant
11
0.1 miFast Food

Miss Coffee
8
0.1 mi$ • Dessert • Cafe

Bussaba Coffee& Thai Restaurant
5
0.1 mi$ • European • Thai

Otop Lifestyle
12
0.2 miCafe • International • Deli
Attractions
25 within 6 miles

River Kwai
1,562
0.2 miBodies of Water

JEATH War Museum
864
0.2 miSpeciality Museums

The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre
1,462
1.3 miSpeciality Museums

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
2,619
1.4 miCemeteries

Chong Kai War Cemetery
155
2.5 miCemeteries

Kanchanaburi Night Market
137
1.2 miFlea & Street Markets
TMK Park Kanchanaburi
3
0.7 miShopping Malls

West Wonder Waterpark
49
0.9 miWater Parks
Wat Thaworn Wararam
1
0.8 miReligious Sites

Giant Tree Kanchanaburi
181
Geologic Formations
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
4,269 reviews
Excellent
1,576
Very good
1,698
Average
807
Poor
130
Terrible
58
Chayut Limpasut
Kanchanaburi, Thailand12 contributions
Jan 2022
Bridge over the River Kwai (Kanchanaburi), the highlight of the province If traveling or in the city, do not miss to stop and take pictures of the atmosphere. In the morning, many tourists come to take photos. I took pictures of the beautiful view of the Railway Bridge and the River Kwai.
Written January 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
poeinscotland
Jomtien Beach, Thailand31 contributions
Nov 2020
Imaging the effort in a state of near death to be forced to do physical labor on a construction project of this kind, in this heat, in these conditions. Beyond my comprehension. I am honored that history and posterity left me with the recovery of artifacts and evidence of that period. I met a few people of the local population who had local relatives who passed on stories of the events, too horrible even then to save in the memory. Every time I visit, this third time from my condo in Chon Buri, I take more informaton with which I process still more new information. Like many hugh projects in Thailand, regardless of how big, or how remote, River Kwai (aka: Kwae (Quay) bridge is a dynamic exhibit that changes and grows with the years. I am a retired U. S. Air Force structural repair engineer, so each rivet, each layer of metal, each foot of track I can feel like no other visitor can. Then, we are separated by modern bounderies of nations, race, and experience from those the make all of this meaningful or not to the visitor.
Written November 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
citizenchim
Ipoh, Malaysia25 contributions
Jan 2020
Seniors like me can really relate to this piece of history. I was there 12 years ago. It was a more natural setting then. The surroundings are all developed now so it does not evoke the memory of the sufferings of those working on the project. To have a better understanding of the sufferings I would recommend a visit to the Jeath museum which is near the railway. There are pups eating places and stalls selling precious stones from Burma.It is a nice experience having a meal on the floating restaurant and at the same time enjoy the beautiful view. You can even book a boat to cruise along the river.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
keith-fee-eddie
Todwick, UK23 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We booked this through Trailfinders who then arranged it through Exo Travel in Bangkok. We didn’t know what to expect - we thought it might be a coach trip. But we were picked up by a taxi and tour guide called Tony who then took us through a tour including a train trip on the Burma railway, to the war cemetery and then the museum. This was followed by lunch on a floating restaurant and then a trip on a farm vehicle to look at local activity such as weaving and watching a lady cooking palm tree fruit. We had such an enjoyable day and the guide was polite, friendly, punctual and knowledgeable. We also liked that he let us do our own mulling around rather than following us around.
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Alex H
Port St. Mary, UK854 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Despite reading people’s reviews of crowds and photograph taking, you need to see this for yourself before making up your mind.
Like an other main tour attraction, yes there are crowds but if you arrive at a clever time and don’t let yourself be brought down by people taking photos, you can still have a fantastic time like we did.
We arrived at 8:45am, later than we anticipated, after we walked from the main road area. This is before the morning train arrives from Bangkok so the crowds were not bad whatsoever. In fact we managed to take a fair few pictures where there’s no one else in them but the view or us. The first train arrives at around 10:45am in Kanchanaburi, so after this time I can imagine crowds picking up. We arrived the day before on the later train and woke up early to go and see the Bridge.
The bridge itself is still in operation and is breathtaking to see. The history behind it is harrowing but it is a magnificent site.
Be clever with your arrival time and you will love this place, seriously.
Like an other main tour attraction, yes there are crowds but if you arrive at a clever time and don’t let yourself be brought down by people taking photos, you can still have a fantastic time like we did.
We arrived at 8:45am, later than we anticipated, after we walked from the main road area. This is before the morning train arrives from Bangkok so the crowds were not bad whatsoever. In fact we managed to take a fair few pictures where there’s no one else in them but the view or us. The first train arrives at around 10:45am in Kanchanaburi, so after this time I can imagine crowds picking up. We arrived the day before on the later train and woke up early to go and see the Bridge.
The bridge itself is still in operation and is breathtaking to see. The history behind it is harrowing but it is a magnificent site.
Be clever with your arrival time and you will love this place, seriously.
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Orgonite John
Los Osos, CA8 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
If you enjoy history and south east Asia this is a must. Many foot massage shops, barbers, restaurants and museums. The surrounding area is full of great street food and shops. I found a great selection of tumbled stones for my artwork at a great price. The bridge it lit up at night and is a beautiful. Very sad story behind the history but is a tribute to all of those who paid the price for world peace.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Mike W
118 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
I had always wanted to visit the bridge and finally got the chance to experience walking over it. As you enter the area around the bridge it's obvious that a large tourism industry has built up around the bridge. On one side are a lot of market stall selling food and souvenirs while over the bridge are more upmarket type restaurants. Walking over the bridge was a bit of an effort-trying to avoid getting into photo shots and peoples selfies was almost impossible. I could not believe how many shots some people wanted all with different facial or hand placements-a sign of the times. Glad that we got the opportunity to visit Hellfire Pass the next day and travel over the bridge on our return trip back into Kanchanaburi. Overall, a worthwhile visit but not quite what I had expected.
Written January 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
julesj182018
Weston super Mare, UK11 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Booked through our hotel this day trip to Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai trip. Cost £92 for two of us which included air conditioned vehicle, lunch and entry to the Kwai museum. Pick up was spot on time wise. Long journey up to Kanchanaburi but the coach was very comfortable. The museum was small but very well laid out and informative. When we got to the bridge we had enough time to walk across, wait for the train and take photos. In particular I should mention that our guide was excellent. Really knowledgeable and interesting orator.
In summary this is a brilliant day trip and very important that we all know the horrific story behind this.
In summary this is a brilliant day trip and very important that we all know the horrific story behind this.
Written March 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
foryouforme
Singapore, Singapore390 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
Am writing this on the way back to Bangkok. The ride took a few hours and we stopped by Meena Cafe before heading to the bridge. Pretty sight, would be much cooler if we came in the evening or stayed over. My friend and I bought straw hats; our essentials for today’s weather!
Written June 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
HsingE
Cape Town, South Africa73 contributions
May 2019 • Solo
This is an informative and interesting, yet sobering experience. I intend going again once l'm able to travel again. The train ride is fun and there are lots of photo and shopping opportunities around the train station. The history of the bridge and the souls who built it is a reminder of hardships endured. It is an experience you shouldn't miss. Will load a photo when l'm not on my phone later.
Written April 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Sophie H
Southampton, UK
Hi, looking to visit the Bridge over the river kwai in late November this year...can anyone recommend a tour company that does a decent day trip from Bangkok? Or are there any tours to avoid?
Thanks
poeinscotland
Jomtien Beach, Thailand31 contributions
I have been to the Bridge over River Kwai many times during my 30 years in Chon Buri. I never made the trip for a day. Over the years I have stretched out the length of my stay as there is too much to see, even for a brief overview of the place. However, born in 1941 and an Air Force retiree, I visit with a different interest. Moreover, just the travel time to the area is a 5+ hour trip from Chon Buri, and not much quicker from quicker. Think of doing Westminster Abby in 3 hours! Or The Tower, etc. There are no cautions to avoid certain tour companies. If they are not good, they fail after few customers.
johnandliz1959
Wolverhampton, UK12 contributions
hi can anyone answer please we are going to bangkok in november and want to do the bridge tour but would it be ok for someone not in best of health ie walks up hill on level ok just slow with breaks to catch breath thanks in advance
mikenat2
Plymouth, UK67 contributions
You shouldn't have any problem. If we made it without any problems I'm sure you will be able. No need to walk all the way over the bridge. Hope you appreciate it as much as these two grey surfers.
Esther S
21 contributions
What is the best way to go to River Kwai Bridge . All the tours are like 8-10 hours, are they any other method of transportation that I can consider or available for less time...traveling from Hotel in Bangkok ..we are 3 adults. Thanks
Ek3
London77 contributions
Hi Esther
I can’t help I’m afraid as I took a small tour. It was fantastic though as it included the Jeath War Museum, a train ride and a boat trip on the Mekong. You see a lot of the country this way.
I’m sure you could book a return taxi in advance if you wish.
Enjoy your trip
Elaine
frederick997
Southampton, UK59 contributions
1 am arriving on 26/03/2019 in Bangkok and want to do the bridge on the river kwai and Thailand Burma railway tour.Do I book now or wait until I get to the hotel.If I book now who with.
Linda M
Manassas, VA110 contributions
The train was fairly empty when we traveled in early January. There are a couple of travel times, we missed our original mid-afternoon schedule due to traffic so took the last one for the day. No problem exchanging the tickets. BTW - this is a train used by locals so there are a lot of stops. We spent 35 minutes at one point waiting for a freight train (they have priority on line). However, worth the inconvenience, loved the views along the Kwai and traveling over the bridge to awaiting cheers was quite an experience.
IF I travel from Padang Besar to River Kwai, which station should i stop ? Is that Nakhton Pakthon?
Robin C
Cheshire, UK4,436 contributions
You can get a train from Hatyai to Bangkok. Second class sleeper is OK, but take some snacks for the journey. You can get a train from Thonburi ( other side of the river from the rest of Bangkok and these trains go to Kanchanaburi. Or you can get a bus from Sai Tai, the Southern bus terminal in Bangkok to Kanchanaburi for about 200 baht.
NinaChristal
Chelmsford, UK43 contributions
Hi all I'm off to Kanchamaburi for 3 nights but still have 11 nights left, where else could we go after? We are starting off in Bangkok I've looked at Pattaya and the "dry" islands but they don't quite grab me with the beautiful thailand I was expecting therefore recommendations welcome!
Daniel I
36 contributions
Go straight to Ko Chang, it's everything you were hoping thailand would be, and its about 10 years behind in the huge tourism wave.
Victoria A
Brighton, UK187 contributions
Hi
Is it cheaper to book tours here in uk or wait till we get to Thailand?
Can anybody recommend any your companies?
Do they do concessions for disabled people?
Many thanks
Dakles
Southampton, UK1,329 contributions
Definitely book locally. Not sure what level of disability you need to cater for but if trains are manageable then it’s dead easy to do the trip yourself rather than take a tour. The train runs from Bangkok Hua Lamphong railway station to Kancnanaburi for only a couple of £ per person each way. On weekends there is a special tourist train that is slightly more expensive but makes a couple of other stops en-route. Check out “The Man in Seat 61” website for details.
Judith H
Cranbourne, Australia16 contributions
I will be staying in Bangkok and would like to go to The River Kwai. Any suggestions on the best way to do this. An organised tour or train. I would like to get the most out of my visit there. Is one day sufficient or are there other things to do/see there. Thank you.
runner123
Heemstede, The Netherlands238 contributions
Dear Judith,
By far the best experience against the lowest cost is to take the train ( 3rd class no air-con, from Thonburi Station ( other side of the Chao Phraya river). There are only 2 trains a day. One at 7;45 am the other at 1:45 pm. The cost is Bht 100.-- regardless the distance you are traveling on that track. The train goes through villages, rice padies and gives a real view of the Thai countryside. Travelling by car or bus is by far less interesting. Do not lean out of the window and do not rest your arm on the open window because on the first part the train travels at only 20 cm. from the roofs of the buildings. You can get off the train at Kanchanaburi main station or at the bridge . Take at least one overnight there and go on with the train to Nam Tok and back. There are onbly 2 trains a day back to Bangkok. Do not take an organised tour from Bangkok as they ask a lot of money for it. Depending on your budget I can recommend the Royal River Kwai Resort about 8 km. north of Kanchanaburi. It's situated along the river with a nice terrace, a huge swimming-pool and good food and service. Rent a bike and tour the surroundings.
ikadri123
Birmingham, UK124 contributions
Hi. I would love to visit. I will be travelling with an infant and 2 young children aged 5 and 7. Is it advisable to do this?
PatrickLongBeach
Peoria, AZ588 contributions
you are not going to be comfortable with small children on that bridge. Me personally, no I would not let them walk on it however you can take the train. I still don't think that it is something that the children would really enjoy or appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bridge Over the River Kwai
- Bridge Over the River Kwai is open:
- Sun - Sat 12:00 AM - 10:59 PM
- We recommend booking Bridge Over the River Kwai tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 80 Bridge Over the River Kwai tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Bridge Over the River Kwai:
- Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour (From $67.05)
- Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour (From $79.90)
- Private Tour: Thai–Burma Death Railway Bridge on the River Kwai from Bangkok (From $140.98)
- Floating Markets and Bridge on River Kwai Tour from Bangkok (From $79.52)
- River Kwai One Day Tour from Bangkok (SHA Plus) (From $42.22)
- Hotels near Bridge Over the River Kwai:
- (0.10 mi) Bamboo House
- (0.14 mi) Kanchanaburi City Hotel
- (0.05 mi) River Kwai Bridge Resort
- (0.09 mi) Hotel Bambooya
- (0.31 mi) Sabai @ Kan Resort
- Restaurants near Bridge Over the River Kwai:
- (0.11 mi) Miss Coffee
- (0.12 mi) Ban Suan Bua Restaurant
- (0.17 mi) Kan Buri
- (0.14 mi) Kan City Coffee
- (0.14 mi) Bussaba Coffee& Thai Restaurant
- Attractions near Bridge Over the River Kwai:
- (0.25 mi) River Kwai
- (0.17 mi) JEATH War Museum
- (0.55 mi) Mellow Adventures
- (0.22 mi) Sugar Member Bar
- (0.25 mi) SEDS: Stand Up Paddle Board - Kanchanaburi