The Death Railway
For your next trip to Thailand, consider boarding the Burma-Siam railway line, also known as the "Death Railway," in tribute to the thousands of workers who shed their blood there.
Starting from the city of Bangkok, passing through northern Kanchanaburi above the River Kwai, and stopping at Thanbyuzayat in the neighboring Mon State, the Burma-Siam railway line is a prominent attraction in Thailand. Tourists love to photograph themselves on the railway bridge, gracefully spanning the Mae Klong River with its massive angular beams cutting through the lush greenery. They know the railway line as the "Death Railway" because its construction came at the cost of the blood of unfortunate civilians and prisoners of war. Travelers will learn an important chapter of Siam's history during World War II, when Japanese officers ruled the country. At the same time, they will enjoy notable sights in Kanchanaburi.
History
The date 1941 is etched in Thai history. The Empire of the Rising Sun occupied the territory, forcing the Kingdom of Siam to fight alongside the Axis powers. With the aim of gaining control of Myanmar, then under British administration, the Japanese set out to build a massive railway network. One hundred thousand civilians from across Asia labored tirelessly on the project; to supplement this workforce, sixty thousand prisoners of war were forcibly conscripted. The infamous railway line thus became a symbol of desolation, tyranny, and human rights violations. Despite uncertain estimates, it is known that at least thirteen thousand men perished due to harsh working conditions and the various forms of mistreatment they endured on a regular, if not daily, basis. The prisoners were primarily soldiers from defeated countries, including Americans, British, Australians, and Dutch.
Record-breaking construction
The construction site was officially opened on September 16, 1942. The engineers initially estimated three years for the railway's completion, but this was shortened to a year and a half. This monumental miscalculation can be excused, considering the railway stretches 415 kilometers. Moreover, the officers overseeing the forced labor did not anticipate how many workers would withstand beatings, insufficient rice rations, spoiled meat and fish dishes, and other tortures they devised. Diseases like diarrhea, dysentery, and cholera compounded the workers' misery. Despite everything, the railway was completed in 1944, opening Japanese access to Burma.
The Death Railway today
Exploring the Death Railway has become a must-do attraction in Kanchanaburi Province today. Transport operators make it a profitable venture by collaborating with tourist trains that operate on the Burma-Siam railway line. The landscape revealed during this journey is extraordinary. Upon reaching Amphawa village, passengers disembark and cross the famous railway bridge over the River Kwai on foot. Initially built as a makeshift structure to complete the project, it was originally constructed from wood before being later replaced by a viaduct with attractive metal railings. From there, travelers can continue to the Burmese border in Yangon or opt for a completely different route, enjoying a boat ride on the River Kwai followed by a natural interlude in the protected area of Khuean Srinagarindra.
How to get there?
To embark on a train journey to discover the Death Railway, start by heading to Bangkok, the Thai capital. Arrive at Thonburi Station, also known as Bangkok Noi, and board the train to Kanchanaburi. While technically feasible by bus or private car, the trip lacks the same charm.
Note that there is no dining car, but food vendors offer a wide range of snacks, fruits, and beverages. The comfort level is adequate but not luxurious, so don't expect air-conditioned compartments. Price: The ticket costs around 100 baht, or 2.6 euros per person.
A tip: when boarding the train, opt for seats on the left side for a more enjoyable view of the diverse landscapes.
