Tham Kra Sae Bridge

📍 Location of Tham Kra Sae Bridge 🚘 Directions to Tham Kra Sae Bridge

About Tham Kra Sae Bridge

The historically significant trestle bridge, nestled in a spectacular location, is a testament to the Japanese attempts to link Burma (now Myanmar) and Thailand by rail during the second world war. This section of the bridge was constructed by prisoners-of-war and conscripted labourers, often at an appalling cost of life. The bridge itself is situated on a narrow ledge with a rough vertical cliff on one side, and the Kwae Noi River on the other. The original bridge that visitors see today has been partly reconstructed but follows the exact trestle design, which incidentally has its origin in American civil engineering.

Visitors can reach the bridge by hiring a pickup taxi from Kanchanaburi, or by riding the train from Nam Tok or Kanchanaburi. Another option is to stay at the riverside resort facing the bridge. Walking the entire length of the track is a highlight for many visitors. However, it's important to remember that the area can be extremely hot, so it's advisable to bring water and a hat. Also, care should be taken when walking the bridge, as there are bolts that stick up every now and then. Insect repellent is also recommended, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance.

Nearby, there's a large Buddha statue that's worth a visit. The tourist train from Kanchanaburi city station is a convenient way to get there. The train stops at Wangpo station, and from there it's a short walk back on the train tracks to Thamkrasae cave. The train won't come back for a couple of hours, so there's no need to worry about getting run over.

The Tham Kra Sae station is another interesting spot. After disembarking from the train, it's a 5-minute walk to a small wooden bridge. Beside the bridge is a small cave with a Buddhist shrine inside and lots of bats. It's recommended to wear a hat when entering the cave. The entrance of the cave offers beautiful scenic views of the bridge and the river banks.

The Kra Sae Cave, situated at the north end of Wang Pho Viaduct, was used for Japanese stores for the construction. This cave holds a special significance for those whose relatives laboured on the railway as POWs. It's also in a beautiful setting that's hard to imagine.

Visitors can also take a train from Kanchanaburi station to Tham Kra Sae station to see the trestle bridge from WW2 and the building of the Thai-Burma railway. The train ride is enjoyable, with stunning scenery. Just before the station, the train goes over the bridge, which is actually in two parts. It's creaky and rickety but good fun to go over. After getting off the train, visitors can walk back over the bridge. The second section of the bridge doesn't have anywhere to escape to if a train comes along, but the drivers are aware of people on the track and go very slowly, giving plenty of notice to move along off the track.

There is a cave at the station end of the track which has a Buddha in it. It's not particularly exciting, but it's worth acknowledging for its part in the building of the bridge. For those on a budget, there are market stalls where you can get a rice dish for a reasonable price. It's also possible to visit the museum and cemetery in one day. The train gets crowded at the River Kwai station, which is one stop after Kanchanaburi, so it's advisable to get on at Kanchanaburi if possible.