Tham Krasae (Krasae Cave) & Wang Pho Viaduct - Image 1
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Tham Krasae (Krasae Cave) & Wang Pho Viaduct

4.5
·2k reviews·Tambon Lum Sum, Thailand

Explore Tham Krasae Cave, a cool sanctuary, and witness the dramatic Wang Pho Viaduct on the historic Death Railway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Tham Krasae (Krasae Cave) & Wang Pho Viaduct - Image 1

Tham Krasae (Krasae Cave) & Wang Pho Viaduct

Best Time

Early morning

Escape the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Tham Krasae Cave, a cool sanctuary, and witness the dramatic Wang Pho Viaduct on the historic Death Railway.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a cool escape, the Death Railway's cliffside journey is unforgettable."

Vertical photo
TIP

Cool Cave Escape

Duck into Tham Krasae cave for a refreshing break from the tropical heat. :snowflake:

Scenic Train Views

Sit on the side facing the train's direction for the best river and cliff views. :train2:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tham Krasae Cave

Tham Krasae Cave

Adjacent to the Death Railway

A cool, shaded sanctuary with a Buddha statue, offering a historical escape from the heat.

Wang Pho Viaduct

Wang Pho Viaduct

Death Railway line

Experience the thrilling Death Railway as it hugs the cliffside with breathtaking river views.

Death Railway Train Ride

Death Railway Train Ride

Kanchanaburi to Tham Krasae

An iconic journey on a historic train, offering stunning mountain and river panoramas.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Tham Krasae Cave offers a cool respite from Thailand's heat, but visiting midday can be intense. Consider an early morning or late afternoon trip to avoid the peak sun and enjoy the scenic railway with fewer people.

Combine with a Scenic Train Ride

The cave is best experienced alongside a ride on the historic Death Railway. Book your tickets in advance and choose your seat wisely for the best river and cliff views.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Escape the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon (around 5:45 PM)
Why
Catch the train, enjoy sunset
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#kanchanaburi , #thailand : #Krasae #Cave and The Death #Railway ,this cave was the camp of POW in World War II, is located 55 km. from Kanchanaburi, beside the viaduct side of the “Death Railway” over looking Kwai Noi River. The cave is within walking distance from the railway tracks of Tham Krasae Railway Station, the most beautiful view point along travelling by train.
thebunwangs
6 likes • 69 views

Cool Cave Escape

Duck into Tham Krasae cave for a refreshing break from the tropical heat. :snowflake: Reddit

Scenic Train Views

Sit on the side facing the train's direction for the best river and cliff views. :train2: Reddit

Plan Your Train

Check train schedules and buy return tickets on board to optimize your visit. :ticket: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking to the cave and along the railway tracks. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Cool Cave Escape

Duck into Tham Krasae cave for a refreshing break from the tropical heat. :snowflake: Reddit

Scenic Train Views

Sit on the side facing the train's direction for the best river and cliff views. :train2: Reddit

Plan Your Train

Check train schedules and buy return tickets on board to optimize your visit. :ticket: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking to the cave and along the railway tracks. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Hydrate Well

It gets very hot, especially near the railway. Carry plenty of water. :droplet: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Tham Krasae Cave for its cool, shaded interior and its unique location adjacent to the historic Death Railway. The Wang Pho Viaduct section of the railway is a major draw, offering breathtaking cliffside views. While some find the cave itself to be simple, its combination with the scenic train ride and the historical significance makes it a worthwhile stop.

"Nice cave, which you can reach from the popular railway nearby. It's a nice place to visit with beautiful views outside the cave. Parking is easy, but a short walk away to the cave and the railway itself."

Jonathan van Olderen

"Beautiful place for reflection, and so cool , an escape from the intense heat.
Hopefully some of the brave Allied Forces got refuge here when being forced to build The Kwai Bridge at the hands of the Japanese."

D Mc-G41

"Honestly, there weren’t many interesting things to see. It was extremely hot, especially near the railway. There is a cave next to the railway where it’s slightly cooler.

The train to get here is an old-fashioned one, taking a little over an hour. If you sit on the side facing the direction the train is moving, you’ll have a view of the bridge; if you sit on the opposite side, you’ll only see rocks and cliffs. You can also buy and eat small pastries on the train. You can purchase your return ticket while on the train. It’s recommended to plan your schedule accordingly."

enkhl enkvshe

What People Like

Scenic Death Railway
Cool cave respite
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be very hot
Cave is simple

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Tham Krasae Cave by taking the historic Death Railway from Kanchanaburi station. The train ride itself is an experience, offering scenic views along the Kwai Noi River. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or rent a motorbike for a more direct route. Parking is available near the cave, followed by a short walk. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally easy to find near Tham Krasae, though it might be a short walk to the cave and the railway itself. Reddit

Yes, taxis are available to take you to Tham Krasae Cave. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to take the train or rent a vehicle. Reddit

The most popular way to experience the Death Railway is by taking the train from Kanchanaburi. The section near Tham Krasae offers particularly stunning views as it runs along the cliffside. TikTokReddit

The train ride from Kanchanaburi to Tham Krasae station takes a little over an hour, offering a leisurely way to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entry fee for Tham Krasae Cave itself, as it's a natural formation and a place of worship. However, you will need to purchase train tickets if you plan to arrive by the Death Railway. Reddit

Ticket prices for the Death Railway can vary, but it's generally an affordable journey. It's recommended to purchase your tickets directly from the station or on the train for your return journey. Reddit

Tham Krasae Cave is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's a natural cave and a place of worship, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase your return train tickets while on the train. This is a convenient option for planning your journey back. Reddit

There are no specific entrance fees for the Wang Pho Viaduct itself, as it's part of the operational railway line. The experience is typically enjoyed by riding the train or walking along designated sections of the track. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunities are along the Wang Pho Viaduct, capturing the train as it passes precariously close to the cliff edge and the river below. The interior of Tham Krasae Cave with its Buddha statue also makes for interesting shots. TikTokInstagram

While the views are spectacular, exercise extreme caution when taking photos on or near the railway tracks. There are no barriers, and trains can pass unexpectedly. Always be aware of your surroundings. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs, especially for capturing the landscape and the train. The golden hour can create stunning shots. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can be strict in Thailand. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in this area to avoid issues. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the viaduct and river. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing the train from a distance. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and water. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several restaurants and small shops located near the Tham Krasae railway station and along the Death Railway line. You can find local Thai dishes and snacks here. Reddit

Small pastries and snacks are often available for purchase on the Death Railway trains, making for a pleasant journey. Reddit

You can expect typical Thai street food and local dishes. Options might include noodles, rice dishes, and refreshing drinks. Reddit

While options might be limited, many Thai dishes can be prepared vegetarian. It's best to ask the vendors or restaurant staff about vegetarian choices. :curry:

Food prices at the local eateries and on the train are generally quite reasonable, offering an affordable dining experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tham Krasae and the Death Railway can be an engaging experience for families, offering a blend of history and scenic beauty. The train ride itself is often a highlight for children, providing a sense of adventure as it chugs along the picturesque route. The cave offers a cool, shaded spot for a break, and the presence of a Buddha statue can spark curiosity. Reddit

When visiting with children, prioritize safety, especially near the railway tracks. Ensure they stay close and supervised at all times. Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited, and the heat can be intense. The historical context of the Death Railway can be explained in an age-appropriate manner, turning the visit into an educational outing. The stunning views from the Wang Pho Viaduct are sure to impress all ages.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Tham Krasae Cave and the Death Railway are excellent choices for budget-conscious travelers. The train journey from Kanchanaburi is very affordable, offering a scenic route without the cost of private transport. Entrance to the cave is free, and the main expense will be your train ticket and any food or souvenirs you purchase. Reddit

Many local eateries near the station offer delicious and inexpensive Thai meals, allowing you to eat well without breaking the bank. Packing your own water and snacks can also help save money. The overall experience provides significant value, combining historical insight with stunning natural beauty at a low cost.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the Death Railway

The Death Railway, also known as the Burma Railway, was constructed by the Empire of Japan during World War II. It was built to supply the Japanese forces in Burma from Thailand. The railway's construction was a brutal undertaking, relying heavily on the forced labor of Allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts. Thousands perished during its construction due to harsh conditions, disease, and malnutrition, earning it the grim moniker 'Death Railway'.

Tham Krasae Cave served as a temporary camp for some of these prisoners. The cave provided a much-needed respite from the relentless heat and arduous labor. Today, the cave houses a Buddha statue and is a place of quiet reflection, honoring the memory of those who suffered and died during its construction. The railway line itself remains a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in history, yet also a testament to human resilience. TikTokReddit

Visiting Tham Krasae and riding the Death Railway offers a profound connection to this history. The dramatic scenery, with the railway clinging to the cliffs overlooking the Kwai Noi River, underscores the immense challenges faced by the laborers. It's a place that evokes a sense of awe and somber reflection, encouraging visitors to learn more about the historical context.

Experiencing the Wang Pho Viaduct

The Wang Pho Viaduct is arguably the most dramatic and visually striking section of the Death Railway. This engineering marvel hugs the sheer limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Kwai Noi River and the surrounding lush jungle. The railway line here is precariously perched, with no safety barriers, making the passage of the train a thrilling spectacle. TikTokInstagram

Travelers often describe the experience of watching the train snake along the viaduct as 'breathtaking' and 'amazing.' The sheer drop to the river below, combined with the train's proximity to the cliff face, creates a unique and unforgettable vista. It's a prime spot for photography, capturing the raw beauty of the landscape and the historical significance of the railway. Reddit

To best experience the viaduct, consider taking the train that passes through this section. The journey itself is part of the adventure, allowing you to soak in the views from the train windows. Alternatively, you can walk along designated parts of the track (with extreme caution) to get closer to the viaduct and appreciate its scale. Remember to always be aware of train schedules and your surroundings for safety.

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