Not officially confirmed: The data for this festival is less certain; check on the spot or with the organisers.
When and where
When: Late November to early December (about 10 days)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 planned 27 November-7 December.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi)
The River Kwai Bridge Week commemorates the building of the notorious Death Railway and the bridge over the Kwai during the Second World War. Each evening there is a light-and-sound show with steam locomotives, bomb sounds and fireworks over the bridge, plus exhibitions, markets and a funfair. It is a historical event that puts the bridge in the spotlight. Also visit the museums and the war cemetery for the full story.
Getting there
Kanchanaburi is about 130 km from Bangkok; train or bus (2-3 hours).
Highlights
- Light-and-sound show A dramatic spectacle at the bridge.
- Steam train A locomotive over the famous bridge.
- War history Museums and cemetery add context.
Tips for River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi)
- Come early for a spot by the river.
- Combine with the JEATH Museum and the war cemetery.
- Visit with respect.
River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows the Bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi.
Frequently asked questions about River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi)
When is River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi) in 2026?
River Kwai Bridge Week falls in 2026 on 27 November – 7 December, at Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi. Rule: Late November to early December (about 10 days). This date comes from media or tourism sources and is not officially confirmed; check it shortly before you go.
Where is the best place to see River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi)?
Watch it best at Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi. A dramatic spectacle at the bridge. Kanchanaburi is about 130 km from Bangkok; train or bus (2-3 hours). A locomotive over the famous bridge. Highlight: War history – Museums and cemetery add context.
Is River Kwai Bridge Week (Kanchanaburi) free to attend?
Yes, watching is free. The venue is Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi. Come early for a spot by the river. Combine with the JEATH Museum and the war cemetery. Highlight: Light-and-sound show – A dramatic spectacle at the bridge. Highlight: Steam train – A locomotive over the famous bridge.
Festivals near Bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
- Asarnha Bucha 65 km as the crow flies
- Phra Pathom Chedi Fair 65 km as the crow flies
- Wat Bang Phra Sak Yant Tattoo Festival 80 km as the crow flies
- Banana-leaf Krathong Festival (Mae Klong) 85 km as the crow flies
- Don Chedi Memorial Fair (Suphan Buri) 85 km as the crow flies
Also in November / December
- Lopburi Monkey Buffet Festival
- Chiang Rai Flower Festival
- Bua Tong Blossom Festival (Doi Mae U-Kho)
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Constitution Day
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)