Kanchanaburi, Thailand
This place has haunted me since I first saw the 1957 movie of the same name. Two years ago I had some time to kill in Bangkok, waiting to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market. So, I decided to grab a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal and enjoy the 2 hour ride to Kanchanaburi, scene of the Bridge on the River Kwai, and the Death Railway.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi was more than I had bargained for. The whole area is a monument to the thousands of Allied and Asian prisoners of the Second World War who died in a forced-labor camp, while building the rail link from Thailand into Burma (The Death Railway). This is a must-see place for history buffs. It’s also an incredibly scenic destination that’s great for trekking.
Hellfire Pass, on the Death Railway
Hellfire Pass is located a little ways out of town from Kanchanaburi, but worth the short bus ride. The Australians have built a beautiful museum there. Also, you can walk for miles along the original rail bed, built with hand-tools by the prisoners. The trek is a communion with the spirits. You feel their presence everywhere.
Back to Bangkok
I took the train back to Bangkok, breaking up the trip at Nakon Pathon to take a look at the largest Chedi (bell-shaped pagoda) in Thailand, and have lunch at the local market. Arriving Bangkok, the train left us at the Thonburi train station (Bangkok Noi). Just walk towards the river and wait for a ferry to take you to the other side. From there, It’s easy to connect with the public boat or catch a taxi.
Side Trips
This is a first in a series of “Side Trips”. Although this weblog is focused on shopping the outdoor markets of Southeast Asia, we also like to wander-off, every once in a while. Let us know what you think…with your comments. Thanks.
