How to Get to Kanchanaburi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

The closest international airports are in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). All major international airlines serve BKK. DMK mainly serves low-cost carriers for domestic and regional flights. For best flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner.

Airport Info

BKK: Main international gateway, full-service airlines.
DMK: Low-cost carrier hub, domestic and regional flights.
Direct flights to BKK from many major global hubs.

Airport Facilities & Seasonality

Both BKK and DMK airports offer extensive facilities, including ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and lounges. Flight prices to Bangkok generally peak during the cool season (November-February) and major holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Songkran in April.

Booking & Prices

Booking flights well in advance is a good idea for peak periods.
Prices usually drop during the low season.
Airport amenities support comfortable waits.

Taxi / Private Transfer

Most convenient, 2-3 hours travel, 2,000-3,000 THB. Book at airport or pre-arrange.

Bus / Minivan from Bangkok

Connect from BKK/DMK to Southern Bus Terminal or Mo Chit, then bus/minivan to Kanchanaburi.

Train from Bangkok

From Thonburi Station (Bangkok Noi) to Kanchanaburi, ~2.5-3 hours, ~100 THB for 3rd class.

Transfer Options from Airports to Kanchanaburi

Details on Bus/Minivan

From BKK: airport express bus or Airport Rail Link to central Bangkok.
From DMK: A1 or A2 bus to Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
Minivans also depart from the Victory Monument area in Bangkok.
Journey from Bangkok typically 2-3 hours.

Train Connection

From Thonburi Station, a taxi or public transport from the airport is needed.
Typically two trains run per day in each direction.
The train route includes crossing the Bridge over the River Kwai.
Fares are very affordable, around 100 THB for 3rd class.

Land Transportation Details

Border Crossings

Kanchanaburi Province shares a border with Myanmar. Direct tourist crossings at Three Pagodas Pass are often restricted or need special permissions. Check current regulations.

Bus and Minivan Services

Frequent services from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal and Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal. Minivans from Victory Monument area are popular. Fare: 100-150 THB.

Self-Driving

Drive on the left side of the road. An International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license are legally necessary. Roads to Kanchanaburi are generally well-maintained.

Sea / River Arrivals

Direct Sea/River Access

Direct sea or river arrivals to Kanchanaburi city are not applicable as the city is inland.

River Transport within Province

River transportation is an option only from within the province itself.
Typically used for local tours or reaching riverside accommodations.
Offers scenic views along the Kwai Yai and Kwai Noi rivers.

Departure Information

No specific provincial exit fees or taxes apply when departing Kanchanaburi. International departure tax from Thailand is usually included in the airline ticket price.

Departure Timing

For bus or train departures, arrive at the terminal/station at least 30 minutes before.
If flying internationally from Bangkok, allocate 2-3 hours for journey to airport.
Plus an additional 2-3 hours at the airport for check-in and security.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads are generally in good condition. Rural roads can be less maintained, sometimes featuring potholes or uneven surfaces.

Safety Awareness

Traffic safety is a concern, especially involving motorcycles.
Drive cautiously and be aware of aggressive local driving habits.
Parking is usually available at attractions and accommodations, often without a charge.

Train Schedules

Direct train service connects Bangkok (Thonburi Station) to Kanchanaburi Station. The train continues further to Nam Tok. This route includes crossing the famous Bridge over the River Kwai.

Approximate Train Timings

Bangkok (Thonburi) to Kanchanaburi: Depart around 07:50 and 13:55.
Kanchanaburi to Bangkok (Thonburi): Depart around 07:19 and 14:47.
Verify current times with State Railway of Thailand.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Frequent bus and minivan services from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal.
Also from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal.
Minivans depart from Victory Monument area (hub shifted slightly).

Depart every 20-30 minutes during daytime hours.
Journey typically 2-3 hours.
Fares range from 100-150 THB.

Travel Takeaways

Air Travel Essentials

Bangkok's airports serve as the main arrival points for international travelers heading to Kanchanaburi.

Preparation Checklist

Valid passport and necessary visa documentation.
Confirmed onward/return tickets and accommodation proof.
Sufficient funds for your stay.

Land Travel Simplified

Trains, buses, and minivans offer flexible and affordable options for reaching Kanchanaburi from Bangkok.

Navigating Your Journey

Buses and minivans run frequently from Bangkok terminals.

Prepare Well

Check current visa and entry requirements before you travel.

Travel Smart

Factor in travel time from Bangkok airports to Kanchanaburi.

Consider Options

Choose the best transport option for your budget and schedule.

Seamless Departures

Departure Advice

Allow ample time for travel from Kanchanaburi to Bangkok airports and for check-in procedures.

How to Get to Kanchanaburi