Hotels in Sai Yok

Sai Yok: River Gorges and Death Railway History

Sai Yok sits in Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand, roughly 100 km northwest of Kanchanaburi town along the Khwae Noi River. The area anchors Sai Yok National Park, established in 1980, which covers 500 sq km of limestone hills, teak forest, and two waterfalls — Sai Yok Yai drops directly into the river, a formation found at very few parks in Southeast Asia. The Death Railway, built by Allied POWs and Asian labourers under Japanese occupation during World War II, still runs through the gorge; the Nam Tok train from Kanchanaburi reaches the area in under two hours.

Where to Stay

Accommodation clusters near Pak Saeng Pier and along the river, ranging from floating raft houses on the Khwae Noi to small guesthouses in the market village. Raft-house stays place guests directly above the water, with boat transfers from the pier included by most properties.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Trains depart Kanchanaburi station at 06:07 and 10:35 daily for Nam Tok, stopping near Sai Yok.
• Best season: November to February; the park trails are dry and the waterfalls flow after the October rains.
• Wildlife note: Kitti's Hog-nosed Bat — the world's smallest mammal — roosts in limestone caves within the park.