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Historical places

Krasae Cave

4.5 · 2,109 reviews
Reflective and historically somber
4538+XJQ Krasae Cave, ลุ่มสุ่ม, Lum Sum, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
Interesting facts
1

The cave is situated along the 'Wampo Viaduct' section, known for being one of the most difficult parts of the Death Railway to construct.

2

During the war, prisoners of war utilized the cave as a storage area and a makeshift medical station.

3

The wooden trestle bridge outside the cave was built by prisoners of war in 1943 without heavy machinery.

4

The Kwai Noi River, which flows beside the cave, was a strategic supply route during the Pacific War.

5

Geologically, the cave is a natural limestone formation that provided natural refuge for the prisoners working in the jungle heat.

Overview

Krasae Cave is a significant historical site located along the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The cave served as a shelter and hospital for Allied prisoners of war forced to construct the railway by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. A small Buddha statue is enshrined within the cave, which is situated directly adjacent to a section of the original wooden trestle bridge. The railway track runs immediately in front of the cave entrance, offering a direct view of the Kwai Noi River. The site remains a functional part of the Nam Tok branch line. Visitors can walk along the railway tracks to explore the surrounding terrain.

Photo spot

Position yourself on the trestle bridge looking back toward the cave entrance to capture the railway tracks and the cave mouth in one frame.

Insider tips

Walk carefully along the railway sleepers, as the gaps between them can be wide and deep.

Listen for train whistles, as local passenger trains still use this active rail line regularly throughout the day.

Visit the small shrine inside the cave to observe the local tradition of paying respects.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk on the narrow railway tracks if a train is approaching or if you are uncomfortable with heights, as the drop to the river bank is significant.

Etiquette

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is expected when visiting the shrine inside the cave; remove shoes before entering the immediate shrine area.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day and large tour group crowds.
Address
4538+XJQ Krasae Cave, ลุ่มสุ่ม, Lum Sum, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
14.105, 99.167
Get directions
Details
Historical SignificanceFormer POW shelter and hospital site during the construction of the Death Railway.
Nearby TransitTham Krasae Railway Station

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day and large tour group crowds..

Position yourself on the trestle bridge looking back toward the cave entrance to capture the railway tracks and the cave mouth in one frame.

Close by you'll find Mallika R.E 124, Mueang Sing Historical Park, Sai Yok Noi Waterfall (Khao Pang Waterfall).