Kanchanaburi hotel and lodging guide

Many of the resorts boast lovely riverside locations

Accommodation in Kanchanaburi consists of two distinctive categories; plush remotely-situated riverside resorts ranging in price from 1,000 baht a night upwards and low-end backpacker styled guesthouses situated mostly on the River Kwai road, on the banks of the river. There are a few mid-budget or boutique styled guesthouses in this area too.

There is plenty of choice and the majority of the guesthouses are located along Mae Naam Kwai and the quieter Rong Hip Oi roads near the Kanchanburi Allied War Cemetery. This is convenient for those on foot or with backpacks. However, for more comfort and exclusivity book into one of the lovely resorts across the river and upstream away from the floating discos.

Guesthouses in Kanchanaburi

Ploy Guesthouse: a smart boutique lodge on the riverfront with comfortable new rooms and nice Zen-like décor. One of the few guesthouses available for those with a bit more to spend, rooms with a/c and full service. River Kwai road; tel. 03451 508; 800 baht +.

Bamboo House: this peaceful option is a little bit away from the main backpacker strip, north of the famous bridge. It has slightly more comfortable bamboo bungalows and a low-key friendly atmosphere. River Kwai road, soi Vietnam; tel. 03462 4470; 300 to 600 baht with a/c.

Sam’s House: is one of three by this name (including Sam’s Place and Sam’s River Raft) and the nicest of the lot with its wooden bungalows set over a small river estuary full of pretty lilies and lotus plants. It’s popular and has a nice atmosphere. River Kwai road; tel. 03451 5956; from 250 baht to 600 baht with a/c.

Apple Guest House: is a neat and better quality place more suited to those avoiding the cheap-skates, and it has comfortable bungalow rooms and a good restaurant. It’s not on the river, but it has pretty gardens and is easy to find. Southern end of River Kwai road; tel. 03451 2017; from 200 baht for fan rooms.

The Jolly Frog: one of the most popular in town and certainly the best atmosphere, this large place has cheap but decent rooms set about a sunny lawn on the river’s edge with a busy restaurant and nearby services. River Kwai road, soi China; tel. 03451 4579; rooms from 150 baht with fan and bathroom.

There are many more guesthouses along this strip as well as the quaint Rong Hip Oi lane along the river, off River Kwai road (southern end). If you arrive early (before midday) or in the off season, it’s a good idea to look around as the level of comfort and atmosphere varies quite a bit and it’s worth the effort to find a suitable place.