Sangkhla Buri Travel Guide

Discover Sangkhla Buri, a picturesque district in Thailand known for its rich cultural attractions, natural wonders, and unique outdoor activities. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide now!


Introduction to Sangkhla Buri

Nestled in a remote mountainous area of Thailand, Sangkhla Buri is a picturesque district known for its rich cultural attractions, natural wonders, and unique outdoor activities. Located in the province of Kanchanaburi, Sangkhla Buri is approximately a six-hour drive from Bangkok and is home to a diverse ethnic mix of Thai, Karen, and Mon people. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the top things to do in Sangkhla Buri, the best places to stay, where to eat, and much more!

List of Places to Visit in Sangkhla Buri

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sangkhla Buri offers an excellent insight into the cultural heritage of the Mon and Karen ethnic groups, who have resided in this area for centuries. Here are some of the must-visit cultural landmarks in Sangkhla Buri:

  • Wat Wang Wiwekaram: This temple is famous for its “Mon Bridge,” which stretches 400 meters across the Songkaria River.
  • Three Pagodas Pass: This historical site was a checkpoint on the border between Thailand and Burma and boasts three ancient pagodas.
  • Mon Village: Take a stroll through this Mon village to explore the traditional houses and learn about the Mon way of life.
  • Sangkhla Buri Cultural Center: Located near the Mon Bridge, this center offers an interesting insight into the history and culture of the area.

Natural Attractions of Sangkhla Buri: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sangkhla Buri is renowned for its natural wonders and outdoor adventure opportunities. Here are some of the top natural attractions to visit:

  • Khao Laem National Park: Explore one of the largest environmentally protected areas in Thailand, try your hand fishing for the famous Giant Snakehead fish, or take a boat trip to the floating houses on Khao Laem Lake.
  • Pha Tat Waterfall: This picturesque waterfall cascades down from the surrounding hillside and is a popular spot for a refreshing dip.
  • Khao Laem Dam: The view from the dam is breathtaking, with stunning views of the scenic mountains and the surrounding area.
  • Chedi Phutthakhaya: This Buddhist stupa sits atop a hill and offers 360-degree views of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sangkhla Buri

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sangkhla Buri offers a plethora of recreational activities. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • The Mon Trail: This trek takes you through the Mon village of Kampaeng Phet to the Thai-Burmese border, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and forests.
  • Sangkhla Buri to Chalerm Rattanakosin National Park: Explore remote jungle tracks leading to an isolated mountain range and above tree lines.
  • Khao Laem National Park: Hike the nature trails in the national park and take in the stunning scenery of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Sangkhla Buri: Activities and Tours

Some of the most popular things to do in Sangkhla Buri include:

  • Explore the Mon bridges: Sangkhla Buri is home to some of the most impressive and longest wooden bridges in the world, including the 400-meter Mon Bridge.
  • Visit the local markets: The district is home to a wide variety of food stalls and handicraft shops, making it an ideal spot for a shopping trip.
  • Trekking, hiking, and cycling: Take in the stunning scenery on a guided tour of the area’s natural attractions.
  • Wildlife spotting: Khao Laem National Park is home to an array of wildlife, including Sambar deer, wild boars, macaques, and many bird species.
  • Visit Thai-Burmese border checkpoint of Three Pagodas Pass

Week-Long Itinerary for Sangkhla Buri

With so much to see and do in Sangkhla Buri, we recommend a week-long itinerary to fully explore all the district has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the Mon Bridge, Wat Wang Wiwekaram, and the local markets.
  • Day 2: Visit Three Pagodas Pass and surrounding border areas.
  • Day 3: Hike the Mon Trail.
  • Day 4: Visit Khao Laem National Park and explore the park’s waterfalls and trails.
  • Day 5: Take a boat ride to Khao Laem Lake and explore the floating houses.
  • Day 6: Visit Chedi Phutthakhaya, a prominent landmark in Sangkhla Buri.
  • Day 7: Enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and kayaking, or take a day to relax at your hotel or spa.

Food and Drink Scene of Sangkhla Buri

Sangkhla Buri’s food scene reflects the district’s diverse ethnic mix and features a range of local specialties:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grilled fish (Pla Nueng in Thai): Freshly caught from Khao Laem lake, the fish is grilled to perfection and served with a spicy dip and fragrant rice.
  • Chok Dee Moo Yang: Grilled pork neck and served with sticky rice and papaya salad.
  • Spicy Thai Salad (Yum): A mix of meats, herbs, and vegetables in a tangy chili paste dressing.

Local Beverages

  • Sato: A fermented rice wine, also popular in neighboring Laos and Myanmar.
  • Mod Din: A sweet made from palm sugar; these are eaten as a snack or after dessert.

Where to Stay in Sangkhla Buri: Hotels, Hostels and Guesthouses

Sangkhla Buri offers visitors a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and homestays. Here are some of the top recommendations:

  • P. Guesthouse: Located right in the heart of Sangkhla Buri, this guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.
  • The Bridge House: This boutique hotel is situated on the river and offers stunning views of the Mon Bridge and the surrounding area.
  • Villa Khao Phaengma: Set amidst the mountains, this luxury villa provides guests with the perfect combination of nature and comfort.

What to Buy in Sangkhla Buri: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sangkhla Buri is an excellent spot to pick up locally made handicrafts. Here are some of the top items to buy:

  • Traditional Karen and Mon woven textiles, clothing and accessories.
  • Handmade wooden furniture and ornaments.
  • Local herbal remedies and teas.

Local Culture and Customs of Sangkhla Buri

Sangkhla Buri is home to a diverse ethnic mix of Thai, Karen, and Mon people, each with their unique customs and traditions. Visitors should respect the local people’s customs and take the time to learn about their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Sangkhla Buri

The best time to visit Sangkhla Buri is during the cool season, from November to February, when temperatures are mild and pleasant. The hot season, from March to May, is the driest time of the year, but temperatures can become excessively warm. The rainy season, from June to October, can be suitable for those who enjoy lush green surroundings and fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sangkhla Buri

Do:

  • Respect local communities and their traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  • Take part in outdoor activities and experience the natural attractions of Sangkhla Buri.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious and cultural customs, including Buddhist traditions.
  • Take photos of individuals or religious images without permission.
  • Litter in public places or natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sangkhla Buri

Sangkhla Buri is a safe district to visit, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should take care when exploring remote areas or participating in outdoor activities and should bring along necessary safety gear and a first aid kit.

Health in Sangkhla Buri

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue fever and malaria, which are prevalent in the area. We advise travelers to consult with their doctor or medical professional before traveling.

Getting to Sangkhla Buri: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sangkhla Buri

The nearest airport to Sangkhla Buri is the Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. From here, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or private transfer to Sangkhla Buri.

Bus Stations Near Sangkhla Buri

The closest bus station to Sangkhla Buri is in Kanchanaburi town, about 80 kilometers away. Many bus companies operate services from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, including government-run buses and private tour companies.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or motorbike to explore the area. Still, we advise caution when driving in Thailand, as the roads can be poorly maintained and congested, and local driving customs may differ significantly from those in other countries.

How to Get Around in Sangkhla Buri

One of the best ways to explore Sangkhla Buri is on foot, as the area is relatively compact. Local tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available for transport, and many guesthouses and homestays can arrange for bicycle or motorbike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Sangkhla Buri: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sangkhla Buri is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, including:

  • Kanchanaburi: Visit the bridge over the River Kwai, the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, and the Erawan National Park.
  • Myanmar: Three Pagodas Pass is the gateway to Myanmar from Sangkhla Buri; you’ll need to obtain a visa beforehand, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Sangkhla Buri is a hidden gem in Thailand that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture or explore the area’s natural wonders, Sangkhla Buri is sure to please. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your next adventure in this beautiful district. Happy travels!

Wat Wang Wiwekaram Wat Wang Wiwekaram Saphan Mon Saphan Mon The Sunken Temple in mid-Apr, when water level is low The Sunken Temple in mid-Apr, when water level is low