Kanchanaburi Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand Travel Guide
Rules vary by nationality and your intended length of stay. Always verify current regulations before travel. For consumer visa application services, visit IVisa or VisaHQ.
Most modern smartphones work with Thai mobile networks. Your phone must be unlocked before traveling if you plan to use a local SIM card. Prepaid tourist SIM cards are readily available from major providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H at airports and local stores. You need your passport to register the SIM. Consider Airalo for eSIM options.
You will need proof of a confirmed departure from Thailand, confirmed hotel bookings, and sufficient funds (e.g., 10,000 THB per person for visa exemption). Passport-sized photos are part of VOA and formal visa applications. An Arrival/Departure Card (TM.6) is collected by airlines or at immigration counters.
No special permits are generally necessary for standard tourist activities in Kanchanaburi. National parks and private attractions have entry fees. As of early 2024, Thailand has no specific health-related entry requirements.
No Fee
Typically 30 days (air/land arrival).
Extendable for an additional 30 days at an immigration office (fee applies).
2,000 THB (verify current fee)
Up to 15 days.
Citizens of specific countries (e.g., China, India, Kazakhstan).
Varies by embassy/consulate
Typically 60 days (extendable by 30 days).
Apply at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.
The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available throughout Kanchanaburi city for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange booths are in the city center, often offering competitive rates. Major banks also supply exchange services. Large hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards. However, cash is the method for street food, local markets, small shops, and many local transportation options.
Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand. However, it is a gesture of gratitude for good service. Some upscale restaurants add a 10% service charge. Otherwise, rounding up the bill or leaving 20-50 THB for good service is common. Round up taxi/tuk-tuk fares. A tip of 20-50 THB for bellhops or housekeeping is common. Consider tipping 50-100 THB for massage therapists.
800 - 1,500 THB (~$22 - $42 USD) per person daily (hostels, street food, public transport).
1,500 - 3,000 THB (~$42 - $85 USD) per person daily (mid-range hotels, mixed dining, occasional taxis).
3,000+ THB (~$85+ USD) per person daily (boutique resorts, fine dining, private transfers).
Hostel bed: 200-400 THB; Mid-range hotel: 800-2,500 THB; River raft hotel: 2,500+ THB.
Street food: 40-80 THB; Local restaurant: 80-200 THB; Fine dining: 500+ THB.
Your well-being remains a top priority during travel.
No mandatory vaccinations apply for entry from most countries. Consult a travel clinic four to six weeks before your trip for personalized guidance.
Dengue fever is present. Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion. The tropical sun is strong.
Kanchanaburi city has several hospitals, including Hospital Kanchanaburi and Makarak Hospital. For serious medical emergencies, transfer to a private hospital in Bangkok often happens due to their higher standards of care. Pharmacies are numerous and generally well-stocked, with many medications available over-the-counter.
Kanchanaburi is generally a safe destination for tourists. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, occurs in crowded areas. Be especially vigilant in markets or at popular tourist sites. Secure your belongings. Scams are uncommon, but they can involve inflated prices for tours or goods. Always clarify prices beforehand. No specific "no-go" neighborhoods exist for tourists within Kanchanaburi city. Road safety, specifically involving motorcycles, is a concern. Exercise extreme caution if riding or crossing roads.
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Compensation for flight delays or cancellations via AirHelp.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly suggested for any international trip. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, including potential evacuation to Bangkok.
Ensure coverage for medical treatment and hospitalization.
Coverage for transport to a higher standard facility, like in Bangkok.
Coverage for trip cancellation, delays, or lost belongings.
Carefully review policy details, especially regarding adventure activities.
Consider reputable providers for your policy. Keep a copy of your policy number, emergency contact details, and coverage information readily accessible.
For lost passports, report the loss to the local police and then contact your embassy for assistance. Maintain physical and digital copies of documents.
Affiliate links: World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy.
In case of emergency, contact the relevant local service first (e.g., Police, Ambulance).
Immediately notify your travel insurance provider’s 24/7 hotline.
For lost passports or serious issues, contact your embassy or consulate in Bangkok.
Tap water in Kanchanaburi is not safe for direct drinking. Food hygiene at reputable street food stalls is generally good.
Kanchanaburi offers options for various budgets, from frugal travelers to those seeking luxury. These estimates serve as a guide.
Motorbike taxi (short): 30-60 THB; Songthaew (shared): 10-30 THB; Tuk-tuk (negotiated): 80-200 THB; Local bus to National Park: 30-100 THB.
Bridge over River Kwai: Free; JEATH War Museum: 50 THB; Thailand-Burma Railway Centre: 150 THB; Hellfire Pass: Free (donations welcome); Erawan National Park: 300 THB (foreigners).
Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple): Free entry, cable car 20 THB.
