Located 130 kms. west of Bangkok, just a two-hour drive away, the small town of Kanchanaburi is the capital of Thailand’s third- largest province, which covers almost 20,000 square kilometres and stretches as far west as the border with Myanmar. The province boasts some of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls and caves in its national parks, as well as the historic bridge over the River Kwai and exciting activities like rafting trips. Thus, it is an ideal spot to explore the Thai countryside without travelling too far from Bangkok. Kanchanaburi has lots of character, and is a great place to stay in raft houses on the river. There are many places worth visiting around town, but top of most people’s list are the bridge and the war museums that chronicle the building of the infamous “Death Railway” across the River Kwai and on Myanmar during World War II. The hills and valleys are scattered with intriguing temples and historical sites, and the lush wooded landscapes are ideal for cycling, trekking, raft trips or elephant rides.