According to most historians, the ancient town of Kanchanaburi was located near Ban Lat Ya, a small village situated approximately 16 kilometers north of the present town. The site was repeatedly recorded in Thai history as an invasion route which the Burmese used to enter Thai Kingdoms.

Kanchanaburi, which has mostly mountainous terrain, covers an area of approximately 19,473 square kilometers and is the third largest province in Thailand after Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima. Situated approximately 129 kilometres west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi shares a border with Myanmar to the west, Tak and Uthai Thani Provinces to the north, Suphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom Provinces to the east, and Ratchaburi Province to the south.

In northern and western Kanchanaburi the terrain is comprised mainly of mountains and high plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acting as a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar. The range is the source of Kanchanaburi's two most important rivers Maenam Khwae Noi and Maenam Khwae Yai, which form the famous Maenam Mae Klong (canal). As a result, several of Thailand's largest Namtok (waterfalls) and most extensive wildlife sanctuaries are found in this area.

The magnificent landscape and charming beauty of Kanchanaburi have resulted in major tourist attractions including several well-known waterfalls, caves which were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and reservoirs. Together, they offer an intriguing experience for first-time or repeat visitors. Whether its fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, or even spending a day out on the river on large bamboo rafts. 

The city of Kanchanaburi is also located at the point where two tributaries, the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai meet and form the Maenam Mae Klong. This is the location of the notorious Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Khwae, one of the world’s most famous World War II sites which have been immortalized in both print and film. Close to this famous railroad bridge there is also a large cemetery open to the public to commemorate all the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the war. Trains still pass over this bridge even today and a train from Bagkok can be taken up to Kanchanburi through the mountains to view this magnificent historical area via coach.

In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has been doing well and produces sugar, agricultural products and jewelry. Tourism is also strong and has made Kanchanaburi number one amongst the Thai western provinces with having the highest number of visitors each year. 

Most of the locals are of Thai ancestry with notable Mon and Karen minorities. Rural dwellers enjoy living simply and respecting nature. Moreover, folk music and dances dating back at least 500 years are still performed today.

A very interesting district of Kanchanaburi also worth visiting is Sangklaburi, which can also be learned about here in another article in the Destinations section of this site.