The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum commemorates deaths of thousands of conscripted laborers and prisoners of war during the construction of the railway between Bangkok and Rangoon by the Japanese army during World War II.
Using a mixture of video commentaries from survivors, and black and white photographs taken during the arduous construction of the 258 miles of track between Thailand and Burma (now Myanmar), the museum offers striking perspective about the trials and deaths of some 16,000 Allied prisoners of war, and thousands of civilian laborers conscripted from throughout Southeast Asia.
Prisoners and laborers faced horrific conditions in the labor camps along the railway. Brutally beaten by their captors, the workers also contended with outbreaks of dysentery, cholera, and malaria while performing arduous manual labor often without the correct tools. The total death toll is estimatedto be more than 100,000 lives.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The best time to visit the region is during the October through February high season. Rains in July and August, and the rising temperatures from March through June can, however, mean fewer crowds and easier bookings for travelers on luxury tours of Thailand.
Centrally located in Kanchanaburi Town, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, the museum can be reached on foot from most places in the city, or using a private car service.
A poignant contrast to the quiet life of Kanchanaburi, the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum is considered a must-see for history buffs.
Appropriate Attire :
Western wear is acceptable inside the museum.
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