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

Day 7: Temples, Caves, and Riverside Tales

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of spiritual reflection and the simple joys of exploring a new place. Kanchanaburi continues to surprise me with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can find peace in ancient temples and excitement in the bustling streets.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Meals n' Bites @ JP's. It was a cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. Thando was particularly excited about the pancakes, and Olivia enjoyed a strong cup of coffee to kickstart her day. I opted for a traditional Thai breakfast, eager to embrace the local flavors. It’s these small, authentic experiences that make traveling so rewarding.

Our first stop was Wat Tham Suea, the Tiger Cave Temple. The temple is located atop a mountain, and reaching it required climbing a daunting staircase with over 1,200 steps. The climb was challenging, especially in the morning heat, but the views along the way were incredible. Thando, surprisingly, was quite the trooper, taking breaks but determined to reach the top. Olivia and I took turns carrying him when his little legs got tired, but his spirit never wavered.

Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The golden Buddha statue at the top was magnificent, radiating peace and serenity. We spent some time soaking in the atmosphere, taking photos, and reflecting on the journey. The temple itself has a rich history, dating back to 1975 when a monk meditating in the cave saw tigers roaming around. The tiger paw prints on the cave walls added to the mystical atmosphere.


Discover serenity and breathtaking views at Wat Tham Suea, Kanchanaburi's iconic Tiger Cave Temple, a true treasure of Thai culture and spirituality.

The climb may be challenging, but the view from the top is a reminder that some of life's greatest rewards come after the toughest climbs.

After descending from Wat Tham Suea, we visited Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong. This temple was equally impressive, though in a different way. It's known for its unique 'floating nun' show, a cultural performance that draws many visitors. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to witness the floating nun as she only performs on certain days or with a private show that requires a fee, and we visited on a day when she wasn't performing. Instead, we explored the temple grounds, which were beautifully maintained and offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The temple is located on the side of a mountain, and reaching the main complex required another climb, though not as strenuous as the Tiger Cave Temple. The cave shrine was particularly interesting, housing old Buddha images and offering a space for meditation. Thando enjoyed exploring the caves, though Olivia was a bit nervous about the bats. I found the serene atmosphere and the intricate carvings to be quite captivating.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong, a remarkable Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, rich in culture and serene landscapes.

For lunch, we decided to try Suan Bua, a restaurant known for its Thai and international cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely garden area, creating a relaxed and pleasant dining atmosphere. The menu was extensive, and we ordered a variety of dishes to share. The Thai dishes were exceptional, full of flavor and spice. Thando enjoyed the Western options, particularly the ice cream desserts. It was a satisfying meal, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Suan Bua in Kanchanaburi—a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts seeking genuine local cuisine.

In the evening, we ventured out to experience Kanchanaburi's nightlife. We had dinner at Tapas Thai Bar Restaurant, a cozy spot known for its variety of tapas and Thai dishes. The atmosphere was lively, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We tried a selection of tapas, enjoying the mix of flavors and textures. Olivia particularly enjoyed the Sunday roast, while I was impressed with the fish and chips. Thando, of course, loved the dessert options.


Discover the essence of Thai cuisine at Tapas Thai Bar Restaurant in Kanchanaburi—delicious dishes with stunning river views await you.

After dinner, we decided to check out The Tavern Bar, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The bar had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and we enjoyed a few drinks while watching a rugby match. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring, and we met some interesting people from all over the world. The Tavern Bar is known as an Aussie/British bar and is a great place for sports enthusiasts. It was a fun and relaxed evening, and we appreciated the friendly atmosphere.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Tavern Bar in Kanchanaburi, where great drinks and local culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

As the day comes to a close, I reflect on the blend of experiences we had. From the spiritual heights of Wat Tham Suea to the lively atmosphere of The Tavern Bar, Kanchanaburi has offered us a taste of its diverse character. It’s a place where you can find both peace and excitement, a destination that caters to a variety of interests.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Skywalk Kanchanaburi City and the Ban Kao National Museum. I’m looking forward to learning more about the local history and culture, and Thando is excited about the prospect of walking high above the city. Olivia is keen to explore the museum and discover more about the region's past. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery.

Kanchanaburi continues to surprise and delight us. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. I am also grateful that we remembered to pack sunscreen, as the December sun can be quite strong, but I am kicking myself for still forgetting the insect repellent! I am definitely paying for that now!

Goodnight from Kanchanaburi!