20 December 2024
Goodbye Mon Bridge Sangkhla Buri
On the morning of December 20, we bid farewell to Mon Bridge, reflecting on the incredible experience we had there. The serene beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable sights made it a truly special stay. With one last glance at the iconic wooden bridge, we set off towards another border crossing, ready for the next leg of our journey before returning to Kanchanaburi.
You can relive the memories through our Sangkhla Buri photo gallery— click here to explore.
Exploring Pilok: A Scenic Detour and Another Border Crossing Adventure
Being this far off the beaten track, we figured, why not take a side trip to visit Pilok Mine township and yet another border crossing? After all, you can never have too many border crossings under your belt!
Our first stop for the day was Wat U Long, a perfect place to stretch our legs. The stairs here gave us a good workout, waking up muscles that had been in cruise mode for far too long. Feeling refreshed, we moved on to Vajiralongkorn Dam, where we drove up onto the dam wall, taking in the sheer volume of water held back by its massive structure.
Adding to the beauty of the spot were sunflowers in full bloom, standing tall as if proudly showing off their golden petals at the peak of their prime.
The drive from here toward Pilok is one of the most scenic routes we’ve taken in Thailand. It started along the edge of Vajiralongkorn Dam, before winding sharply upwards into the mountains.
The road was narrow and slow-going, but every glimpse through the dense rainforest revealed stunning vistas, making every turn worthwhile.
Finally, we arrived at Pass Mittraphap, where the views across the border were nothing short of breathtaking—you could see for miles in every direction.
The crossing itself had a fair share of rugged, sharpened bamboo—a definite hazard you wouldn’t want to trip on! After taking in the sweeping panorama, we made a quick stop at Wat Mueang Pilok, a small local temple nestled amidst the hills.
Next, we rolled into the quiet village of Pilok, a picturesque little settlement built around a tranquil lake. Next we visited the wish wall, where travellers leave heartfelt messages on wooden plaques.
It seemed the perfect spot to pause for lunch, so we indulged in a delicious local meal before taking a short walk to Pilok Mine. With appetites satisfied and another border-crossing experience checked off the list, we started the winding descent back toward Kanchanaburi, retracing the beautiful mountain roads that had brought us here.
21 December 2024
A Relaxing Day in Kanchanaburi
After days of adventure and winding mountain roads, a rest day in Kanchanaburi was just what we needed. We decided to miss the 1,000 Monk Alms Offering event as we could not face masses of people.
This is the same group that run the Wat Phra Dhammakaya. The morning started with a visit to an old friend we met on our last trip here—a great chance to catch up and swap stories.
Next, we made our way to Robinsons for lunch, immersing ourselves in the festive atmosphere that Thailand does so well this time of year. The highlight? Watching young Thai performers and their teacher sing and dance, their enthusiasm spreading a little extra joy to everyone around.
With the day set at a relaxed pace, we spent the afternoon unwinding at the hotel before heading out for dinner. Of course, we couldn’t resist returning to KFC BigC Kanchanaburi, a place that had already left a great impression on us.
Not only did we enjoy another satisfying meal, but we also decided to bring a little festive cheer by gifting the store a small Christmas present—something they were absolutely thrilled to receive.
And that moment sparked an idea for Christmas Day—but more on that soon!
22 December 2024: Temples, Markets, and a Touch of Local Festivity
The day kicked off with a brief stop at Kleebbua Stadium, where a local government parade and celebration were in full swing—an excellent opportunity to capture the moment with some photos.
Our first major destination was Wat Nong Hoi, a temple perched high on a mountain, home to a lively troop of monkeys. From the top, we enjoyed expansive views of the surrounding farmland, a stunning contrast to the bustling atmosphere below.
After a PTT fuel stop and lunch, we continued our journey, arriving in Ratchaburi late in the afternoon. Before settling in for the night, we explored Khoi Ki Ratchaburi Old Market, soaking in its unique charm and historical feel. A perfect way to end a day filled with culture, scenery, and a glimpse into local traditions.
23 – 27 December 2024: A Week of Relaxation, Festivities, and Adventure
After a long and winding journey, we finally reached Khiri Khan by taking the shortest route we could find—a relief after days of encountering both scenic routes and challenging roads. Our hotel, a charming retreat that has become our home away from home, welcomed us like an old friend. With its comfortable rooms, warm ambience, and attentive staff, we knew right away that we were in for a treat as we settled in for a week of leisure and discovery. It was good to be back here again.
Over the next several days, we embraced everything Khiri Khan had to offer. Mornings were spent taking leisurely strolls through the town, visiting local markets brimming with fresh produce and handcrafted items while the gentle sea breeze provided a refreshing start to the day. We wandered along quiet beaches, discovering hidden coves and admiring the interplay of light at sunrise and sunset. These moments of quiet reflection were interspersed with bursts of activity that kept our spirits high and our hearts light.
One of the outstanding highlights was discovering what might be the best Massaman Curry we’ve ever tasted. We found this culinary gem at Wing 5 Royal Thai Air Force—a local eatery that surprised us with its rich, aromatic flavours and perfectly balanced spices.
It wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience that showcased the complexity and vitality of Thai cuisine. Beyond this delicious discovery, the hotel itself exuded a spirit of hospitality that made every guest feel welcome. We spent plenty of time chatting and even made a new friend, Chris, one of the hotel staff whose thoughtful gestures and enjoyable English conversation added another memorable layer to our stay.
Christmas Celebrations
Christmas Day in Khiri Khan turned out to be a memorable blend of tradition and innovative celebration. That morning, we headed to the local BigC shopping centre, where the customary Christmas spirit was alive and well. Local school children and their teachers performed lively dance and song routines, creating an atmosphere that was both festive and heartwarming. The performances were not only a feast for the eyes and ears but also a reminder of the deep sense of community and joy that permeates this part of Thailand during the holiday season.
After enjoying the delightful performances—and being generously treated to chocolates—we decided to pick up our traditional KFC Christmas lunch meals. This fusion of global fast-food familiarity with the relaxed charm of a holiday picnic on the beach struck us as wonderfully unique.
We set off towards the seaside, and along the shore, we found a comfortable spot near the fishing boats. There, with the soothing sound of waves and the soft murmur of local life as our backdrop, we enjoyed what we are now fondly considering a new tradition: indulging in KFC by the beach. The meal, coupled with the festive spirit and the salty tang of the ocean breeze, created an experience that was as unconventional as it was delightful.
Exploring the Border Regions
Our adventures continued with yet another border drive—this time to meet with old friends at Praow Decor, a delightful little establishment we had encountered the previous year. Located near Mawdaung Pass, this storied town nestles close to the Myanmar border and is steeped in local culture and history. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by familiar faces and the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. In fact, the coffee here stood out as possibly the best we have had in all of Thailand—a rich, full-bodied brew that perfectly complemented our conversation of hopes and shared travel experiences.
We spent a good half-hour catching up with our friends, exchanging festive greetings and warm wishes for both Christmas and the coming New Year. The experience was as much about the camaraderie as it was about the journey itself. After our engaging conversation, we meandered through the bustling local markets. The abundance of timber furniture was astonishing; massive, hand-carved pieces that showcased the skill and artistry of local craftsmen. Each item seemed to tell its own story, reflecting both the heritage and the resourcefulness of the region.
The 396-Step Wat Climb
Perhaps the most challenging—and ultimately rewarding—adventure of the week was our much-anticipated climb of Khao Chong Krajok.
This temple, perched atop a hill with a daunting flight of 396 steps, had long been on our to-do list. Years ago, an encounter involving Alison and a mischievous monkey had left us wary of the climb, but the allure of the stunning view from the top called us back once again.
Armed with a trusty stick, not intended for any harm but merely to tap along the steps as a gentle reminder to the monkeys to stay at a distance, we began our ascent.
The staircase was busy with a surprising number of monkeys, lively and curious, as if they were awaiting their lunchtime handouts. Step by step, we navigated the challenge, each tap of the stick echoing our determination to reach the top. While the figure of 4,000 monkeys might be an exaggeration, the playful interruption certainly added both charm and difficulty to the climb.
Upon reaching the summit, we were rewarded with panoramic views that were nothing short of breathtaking. A gate at the top ensured that the monkeys remained below, allowing us to fully embrace the sense of tranquility. The temple complex itself was serene, and a glass floor platform provided an exhilarating way to look directly down at the landscape below—a spectacular vista of rolling hills, distant farm lands, and the ever-present natural beauty that defines this region.
Visit to Khao Khan Kradai
We drove to Khao Khan Kradai, a hidden gem perched on a rugged headland adorned with Buddha statues.
Though the climb was steep, every step revealed a more breathtaking view of the coast, where the blues of the water met lush greenery and ancient devotion. At the summit, the cave stood as a quiet sanctuary, a timeless blend of nature and cultural heritage.