Sangkhla Buri

Located near the border with Myanmar, Sangkhla Buri features a unique blend of Thai, Mon, and Karen cultures. The town's landmark is Saphan Mon, the world's second-longest handmade wooden bridge, connecting the two banks of the Songkalia River. A walk across the bridge at sunrise, when locals offer alms to monks, is one of the spiritual highlights of any journey to Western Thailand. Visitors can explore the Khao Laem reservoir by boat to see the 'sunken temple' of Wat Wang Wiwekaram, whose bell tower protrudes from the water depending on the level. The surroundings are characterized by dense forests and mountains, good for trekking tours to hidden waterfalls. Gastronomically, you should try the Mon curry and various local fish dishes prepared fresh from the lake. Access is usually via Kanchanaburi by bus or minivan, which involves a winding but scenic four-hour journey. The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. The rainy season also has its charm, as the mist over the lake and mountains creates a particularly mystical atmosphere that is great for photography.

Nearby cities

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a town in western Thailand, known for its connection to the Death Railway during World War II.

Dawei

A coastal city in southern Myanmar, known for its tropical beaches and rubber plantations.

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Nyaw Pyin

A remote fishing village in Myanmar, home to some of the most pristine and longest sandy beaches in Southeast Asia.

Myeik

A port city in southern Myanmar, famous for its seafood and pearl trade.

Ma Yin Gyi

A remote coastal village in Myanmar, providing access to Nabule Beach, one of the country's most spectacular and untouched stretches of s…

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Macleod Island

An exclusive private island in the Mergui Archipelago, known for pristine nature and diving spots.

Pai

Pai is a laid-back mountain village in Northern Thailand, famous for its bohemian atmosphere, hot springs, and stunning natural scenery.

History & landmarks

Hellfire Pass Memorial

A railway cutting on the former 'Death Railway' in Kanchanaburi, hand-hewn through solid rock by Allied prisoners of war.

Bridge on the River Kwai

Part of the 'Death Railway' built by Allied prisoners of war during World War II.

Doi Inthanon Summit

The highest point in Thailand, located in Doi Inthanon National Park.

Nature

Dawna Range

A subrange of the Tenasserim Hills, forming the border between Thailand and Kayin State in Myanmar.

Tenasserim Coast

The southernmost coastal region of Myanmar facing the Andaman Sea, known for its intricate archipelago and coral reefs.

More places

Three Pagodas Pass

A pass in the Tenasserim Hills connecting Thailand and Myanmar.

Thung Yai Naresuan Plateau

A vast plateau and wildlife sanctuary, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the adjacent Huai Kha Khaeng sanctuary.

Erawan National Park

Famed for its seven-tiered waterfall resembling a mythical elephant.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

The main cemetery for victims of the 'Death Railway' construction during WWII.

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Heinda Tin Mine

One of the oldest and largest tin mines in the Tanintharyi Region, extracting the rich mineral resources of the Tenasserim Hills.

Myawaddy Border Trade Hub

The most important land border crossing between Myanmar and Thailand, facilitating a massive flow of goods and agricultural products.

Tenasserim Hills

A long mountain range that forms the backbone of the Malay Peninsula, running along the border between Myanmar and Thailand.

Kanbauk Gas Terminal

A major facility in the Tanintharyi Region where natural gas from offshore fields is processed and exported to Thailand.