Kanchanaburi is a town municipality in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, situated approximately 120 kilometers west of Bangkok. The town straddles the Mueang Kanchanaburi District and lies southeast of Erawan National Park, one of Thailand's most visited natural attractions. According to census data, the town proper had a population of 25,651 in 2017, though the wider Kanchanaburi Province supports over 896,000 residents. The town's setting along riverine terrain and proximity to forested uplands defines its character as a gateway destination for travelers exploring Thailand's western natural and historic heritage. Kanchanaburi sits at the intersection of Thailand's monsoon climate zones, with the driest months occurring from January through April, when average temperatures range from 24–29°C. The region experiences peak rainfall from July to September, when monthly precipitation exceeds 200mm.
Updated 2026-05-03 · Source: GeoNames, Wikipedia
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Monthly normals (10-year window). Bars show precipitation, lines show average and max temperature.
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec
© OpenStreetMap contributors
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Viewpoints
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Guesthouses
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Hospitals
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Restaurants
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Kanchanaburi occupies a position in western Thailand's lower highlands, characterized by river valleys and forested terrain. The town lies at coordinates 14.63°N, 99.10°E, in the Asia/Bangkok timezone. Its proximity to Erawan National Park places it within a region of significant ecological diversity. Climate data shows distinct seasonal variation: cool-dry months (January–February) average 24–26°C with minimal rainfall under 15mm; the hot season (March–May) brings temperatures peaking at 33–34°C in March and April; the monsoon period (May–October) delivers heavy precipitation, with August recording the highest monthly total at 231mm across 26 rainy days. The transition months (November–December) return to cooler, drier conditions, averaging 24–26°C.
The town of Kanchanaburi proper covers parts of four tambons (subdistricts) within Mueang Kanchanaburi District and Tha Muang District. The 2017 census recorded 25,651 residents in the town, reflecting a decline from 31,327 in 2006. The wider Kanchanaburi Province encompasses a population of approximately 896,351. The town serves as the administrative and commercial hub for the province, with local infrastructure supporting regional agriculture, forestry, and increasing tourism activity tied to Erawan National Park and the town's historic riverside location.

The optimal window for visiting Kanchanaburi spans the cool-dry season from January through February and the transition month of November. During these periods, temperatures average 24–26°C with rainfall below 50mm, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration. March and April offer warmer but still relatively dry weather, though temperatures climb toward 34°C. The monsoon months (May–October) bring substantial rainfall and high humidity; however, they offer lower prices and fewer tourists. Travelers with limited schedules should target January, February, November, or December, when humidity remains moderate and precipitation minimal.
Kanchanaburi is located 120 kilometers west of Bangkok, making it accessible by road via Highway 2 and regional routes. The town serves as a transport hub for visitors heading to Erawan National Park and other provincial attractions. Local amenities include guesthouses (2 documented within the 10km radius) and restaurants (1 documented within the immediate area), though the wider town supports a more extensive hospitality network. The nearest major airport is Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), approximately 160km to the east. Ground transport options include bus, private vehicle, or organized tours from Bangkok.

Erawan National Park lies to the northwest, featuring limestone karst scenery, waterfalls, and forest trails. The town itself sits within a riverine landscape, with viewpoints accessible from the town area (2 documented within 10km radius). The region's cultural and historic sites, including temples and war memorials, reflect Thailand's regional heritage. The proximity to both river valleys and upland forest zones supports activities centered on nature walks, waterfall visits, and historic site exploration. Local healthcare services are available, with 1 hospital documented within the 10km radius, supporting visitor safety and wellness.
Geographic data from GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Narrative sourced from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) and structured by Claude. Map by © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). See the methodology and sources registry for full attribution and update cadence.
This page last refreshed 2026-05-03.