Kanchanaburi, which has mostly mountainous terrain, covers an
area of approximately 19,473 square kilometers and is the third
largest province in Thailand after Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima.
Situated approximately 129 kilometers west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi
shares a border with Myanmar to the west, Tak and Uthai Thani
Provinces to the north, Suphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom Provinces to
the east, and Ratchaburi Province to the south.
In north and west Kanchanaburi, the terrain is comprised mainly
of mountains and high plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acting
as a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar. The range is the
source of Kanchanaburi's two most important rivers Maenam Kwai Noi
and Maenam Kwai Yai, which form the famous Maenam Mae Klong. As a
result, several of Thailand's largest Namtok (waterfalls) and most
extensive wildlife sanctuaries are found in this area.
The magnificent landscape and charming beauty of Kanchanaburi
have resulted in major tourist attractions including several
well-known waterfalls, caves which were once inhabited by Neolithic
man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and
reservoir. Together, they offer an intriguing experience for
first-time or repeat visitors. Whether its fishing, rafting,
canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing,
elephant and jungle trekking, or even living in bamboo rafts,
Kanchanaburi takes pride in offering them all.
The city of Kanchanaburi is located at the point where two
tributaries, the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai meet and form the Maenam
Mae Klong. This is the location of the notorious Death Railway and
the Bridge on the River Kwai one of the worlds famous World War II
sites which have been immortalized in print and film.
In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has been doing well on a
national scale, with over 10 per cent growth annually. Important
industries include sugar, agricultural products and jewelry.
Tourism is also a main source of income for the locals as the
provinces high tourism potential has made Kanchanaburi number
one among the west provinces in having the highest number of
visitors each year.
Residents of Kanchanaburi are engaged in agricultural
activities. Most of the locals are of Thai ancestry with notable
Mon and Karen minorities. Rural dwellers enjoy living simply and
respecting nature. Moreover folk music and dances dating back at
least 500 years are still performed today.
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