Family Adventure in Kanchanaburi: A Blend of History, Nature, and Culture

Emerald Pools and Market Delights

Day two in Kanchanaburi was nothing short of magical. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Erawan National Park and experiencing the local culture through its vibrant markets and delicious food. It’s amazing how quickly a place can capture your heart, and Kanchanaburi is certainly doing that for me. Let me tell you all about it.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Peppers Restaurant. Olivia, Thando, and I fueled up with a mix of familiar Western dishes and some intriguing Thai options. Peppers Restaurant, with its riverside setting, offered a tranquil start to what promised to be an adventurous day. The gentle morning breeze and the sound of the River Kwai set a peaceful tone. I even managed to snap a few photos of the river as the sun began to climb higher in the sky. The hotel's complimentary 'whenever/wherever' breakfast concept is something I wish more hotels would adopt.


Experience exquisite Western cuisine at Peppers Restaurant along Mae Nam Khwae River in Kanchanaburi - where flavor meets ambiance.

After breakfast, we packed our essentials – camera, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles – and set off for Erawan National Park. The drive itself was scenic, with lush greenery on either side of the road. Thando was particularly excited, chattering away about the monkeys he hoped to see. I was equally eager to capture the beauty of the Erawan Falls with my camera.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Erawan National Park, Thailand, with its stunning waterfalls, lush jungles, and rich wildlife, a must-visit for nature lovers.

Arriving at Erawan National Park, the air was thick with humidity and the sounds of the jungle. The park was teeming with life, and I could immediately feel the refreshing embrace of nature. We paid the entrance fees and began our trek towards the famed Erawan Falls.


Discover Erawan Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, perfect for swimming, hiking, and immersing in nature's beauty.

The hike to the top of Erawan Falls is an adventure in itself. The trail winds through dense jungle, crossing wooden bridges and passing by stunning viewpoints. The falls are structured in seven tiers, each with its own unique charm and emerald-green pools. The water was crystal clear, and the fish in the pools added to the surreal experience. Thando was in his element, splashing around in the shallow pools and marveling at the fish nibbling at our feet. Olivia and I took turns capturing photos and simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

We spent a good part of the morning exploring the various tiers of the falls. The climb to the top was a bit challenging, but the view from the seventh tier was well worth the effort. It's easy to see why the falls are named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology – the top tier does indeed resemble an elephant's head.

After our waterfall adventure, we were famished. We decided to have lunch at EatSmith. This restaurant offered a delightful mix of Thai and Western cuisine, something to please everyone's palate. I opted for a classic Pad Thai, while Olivia enjoyed a green curry. Thando, ever the fan of familiar flavors, devoured a plate of chicken nuggets. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at EatSmith in Kanchanaburi - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

With our bellies full, we ventured to Mueang Kanchanaburi Fresh Market. This bustling market offered a glimpse into the local trade of fresh produce and a true taste of the local culture. The market was a riot of colors and smells, with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats and spices. Thando was fascinated by the exotic fruits he had never seen before, while Olivia and I enjoyed sampling some of the local delicacies. I even mustered the courage to try a bite of something I couldn't quite identify – it was surprisingly delicious!


Explore Mueang Kanchanaburi Fresh Market for an authentic taste of Thai culture, vibrant local produce, and delicious street food.

One of the highlights of the market was the street food. We sampled various snacks, from crispy spring rolls to sweet mango sticky rice. The flavors were bold and authentic, and it was a true culinary adventure. I made sure to take plenty of photos of the vibrant market scene, capturing the essence of local life.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Keeree Mantra Kanchanaburi for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its stunning mountain views and delicious Thai cuisine. The setting was magical, with the sun setting over the mountains, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape. The restaurant's design, blending modern elegance with traditional Thai elements, added to the enchanting ambiance.


Savor authentic Thai cuisine with stunning riverside views at Keeree Mantra Kanchanaburi - a must-visit destination for food lovers.

We savored a variety of Thai dishes, from fragrant curries to flavorful stir-fries. The food was exquisite, and the views were simply breathtaking. Thando, tired from our day of adventures, fell asleep in Olivia's arms as we finished our meal. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

Reflecting on the day, I realize how fortunate I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. Seeing Thando's eyes light up as he explored the falls and tasted new foods is something I will always cherish. Olivia's unwavering support and adventurous spirit make these trips even more special. It reinforces the importance of family and creating lasting memories together.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the history of Kanchanaburi with a visit to Hellfire Pass. It’s a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II, and I think it’s important for Thando to learn about this part of history. We'll also visit the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre to gain a better understanding of the area's significance. For meals, we're planning to try Taraburee for breakfast, Bell's Pizzeria for lunch, and Schluck Restaurant for dinner. I’m also hoping to check out Vibe Kanchanaburi, a local bar, for a relaxing evening.

As I sit here, penning down the events of the day, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Kanchanaburi has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical significance. It's a place that will stay with me long after we've left, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I’m particularly glad I remembered to pack my camera and travel guidebook, though I’m kicking myself for forgetting the insect repellent and an extra memory card. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

Kanchanaburi, you've captured our hearts. Until tomorrow!

Kanchanaburi Travel Tips

Here are a few tips for anyone planning a trip to Kanchanaburi:

• Best Time to Visit: The cooler months of December and January are ideal, but the park is open year-round.


• What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be doing a lot of hiking. Light, breathable clothing is also recommended due to the humidity.


• What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and reusable water bottles are essential. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning scenery.


• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites. Be mindful of local customs and traditions.


• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when hiking.

With these tips in mind, you're sure to have an unforgettable adventure in Kanchanaburi!