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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 north and west 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. 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 reservoir. Together, they offer an
intriguing experience for first-time or repeat visitors.
Whether its fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking,
bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle
trekking, or even living in bamboo rafts, Kanchanaburi
takes pride in offering them all.
The city of Kanchanaburi is 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 worlds famous World
War II sites which have been immortalized in print and
film.
In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has
been doing well on a national scale, with over 10 per
cent growth annually. Important industries include
sugar, agricultural products and jewelry. Tourism is
also a main source of income for the locals as the
provinces high tourism potential has made Kanchanaburi
number one among the west provinces in having the
highest number of visitors each year.
Residents of Kanchanaburi are engaged
in agricultural activities. 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.
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