Bangkok: River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok any time soon then you might want to consider adding the River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour to your itinerary. Let’s answer a few of the most common questions asked by tourists visiting Bangkok.

What is the River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour?

The River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour is a historical excursion that takes visitors back to World War II when Thailand was under Japanese occupation. The tour takes you to the infamous Death Railway where thousands of prisoners of war and enslaved people were forced to build a railroad between Thailand and Myanmar.

The tour includes a visit to the Bridge on the River Kwai, a long-tailed boat ride, and a train journey over the bridge. You can see the JEATH War Museum, visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, and hear about the local area and its history from your expert local Thai guide. Lunch with the tour group in Kanchanaburi is also included.

What is included in the tour?

The River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour is operated by I Asia Thailand and includes:

• All Entrance Fees
• Hotel pick up and drop-off (centrally located Bangkok hotels only)
• Long-tailed speedboat ride
• Lunch
• Beverages
• Gratuities

What is the itinerary for the tour?

The tour usually starts around 7:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Bangkok. You’ll then head to Kanchanaburi, which is about a two-hour drive from Bangkok. Once you reach there, you’ll begin your tour of the Death Railway and you will visit the Bridge on the River Kwai as well as the JEATH War Museum and the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. After that, you’ll enjoy a long-tailed boat ride and a train journey over the bridge. Finally, you’ll have lunch with the tour group in Kanchanaburi before heading back to Bangkok.

What are some interesting facts about the River Kwai Bridge?

The Bridge on the River Kwai is one of the most enduring monuments to the brutality of WWII. Here are some interesting facts about the bridge:

• The bridge is part of the infamous Death Railway, built during World War II from 1942 to 1943.
• The railway connected Kanchanaburi in Western Thailand with Rangoon in Myanmar, called Burma back then, and was about 415 kilometers long.
• Construction of the railway began on both ends in June 1942 working towards each other. In October 1943 the two sides met, finishing the railway.
• The bridge on the River Kwai is famous due to the 1957 movie of the same name and the book by Pierre Boulle.

Why should you book the River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour?

The River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour is a great opportunity to learn about the history of Thailand and its involvement in World War II. The tour is informative, thoughtful, and provides a unique insight into the country’s past. Your expert local Thai guide will take you through the tour, and you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the region.

Plus, with everything included in the tour package, you won’t need to worry about anything on the day itself. So why not book one of the most informative and fulfilling tours in Bangkok?

Book the River Kwai Bridge and War Museum Tour now on Viator, and enjoy a historical and educational experience you won’t forget.

Bangkok Unveiled: An Insider’s Guide to the City

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, Bangkok is a city that has plenty to offer for visitors. With its vibrant street life, rich culture, delicious food, and long history, it’s a place that never disappoints. But Bangkok has much more to it than the typical tourist sites, and as an insider, I am happy to share some hidden treasures, local attractions, and memorable experiences that most tourists miss.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Obvious

Bangkok’s off-beat attractions are endless, but here are some unique places that are worth checking out:

– Rot Fai Market: This night market is located in an old railway yard and offers a vast range of retro and vintage items, including antiques, vinyl records, and old-styled automobile parts.

– Pak Khlong Talat: Known as the city’s largest and oldest flower market, Pak Khlong Talat is perfect for experiencing the vibrant colors and fragrances of Thailand’s diverse flowers.

– The Ghost Tower: A 47-story skyscraper abandoned since the Asian financial crisis, the Ghost Tower has become a popular site for urban explorers and photographers.

Dining Spots: A Journey to Bangkok’s Food Culture

In a city as food-obsessed as Bangkok, it’s hard to pick one or two interesting spots. However, these are my top picks for anyone who wants to experience the local cuisine in its purest form:

– Jay Fai: A Michelin-starred street-food restaurant that serves the best crab omelet in town.

– Or Tor Kor Market: Not only is it a great place to try rare tropical fruits, but it’s also home to some of the best food vendors in the city.

– Wattana Panich: A hole-in-the-wall restaurant that has been serving beef noodle soup for over sixty years, and that is worth checking if you want to taste an authentic Bangkok flavor.

Cultural Experiences: The Pulse of Bangkok’s Heritage

Bangkok has a rich cultural heritage that is visible in every corner of the city. Here are some cultural experiences that will transport you to the heart of the city:

– Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple): A golden-domed temple located on top of a hill that offers panoramic views of the city and is one of Bangkok’s best-kept secrets.

– Jim Thompson House: A traditional Thai-style house that was built by Jim Thompson, an American businessman who revolutionized the silk industry in Thailand.

– Khon (Thai masked dance): An ancient Thai performance art that combines traditional storytelling, music, and dance. Catch a performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre for a unique cultural experience.

Local History: Tales of Bangkok’s Past

Bangkok’s history is a fascinating mix of myth, legend, and colorful characters. Here are some lesser-known stories that will give you a glimpse into the city’s past:

– The Tale of the White Elephant: Legend has it that the founding of Bangkok was marked by a white elephant picking the city’s spot. Today, the White Elephant shrine is a must-visit place for anyone interested in the city’s roots.

– The Chinese Cemetery: Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Chinese Cemetery offers a unique insight into the city’s Chinese past. The tombstones here are a testament to the community’s wealth and social standing.

– The Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute: This institute was established in 1913 and has since then been responsible for producing vaccines and anti-serums to fight deadly infections. It’s a great example of Thailand’s modernization.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Outside the Comfort Zone

For those who dare to go outside their comfort zone, here are some adrenaline-fueled activities that will leave you breathless:

– Flight of the Gibbon: A zip-lining tour that takes you through a beautiful rainforest and allows you to enjoy the view from above.

– Bungee Jumping: Head over to The Gravity Bungee for a heart-pumping bungee jumping experience.

– Muay Thai Training: Bangkok has plenty of Muay Thai schools that offer training for beginners, allowing you to learn the art of this ancient martial art from local experts.

Conclusion

Bangkok is a city of extremes, a place where ancient culture meets modernity, and luxury goes hand in hand with simplicity. Whether you’re here for a short layover or an extended vacation, the city always has something new to offer. Don’t shy away from exploring off-the-beaten-track or venturing into unfamiliar territories. Bangkok will reward those who are brave enough to explore its hidden gems and tap into its pulse.