Death Railway

The remnants of the Death Railway

The Death Railway (also known as the Waterfall Railway or the Kanchanaburi Railway, formerly called the Burma Railway) was constructed during World War II. Japanese soldiers forced numerous prisoners of war to build the railway to Burma, resulting in a significant loss of life. It is said that for every railway sleeper laid, one life was lost. The railway starts at Nong Pladuk Junction Station in Ratchaburi Province, passes through Kanchanaburi, crosses the Khwae Yai River, and heads westward to the Three Pagodas Pass, ultimately reaching its destination in Thanbyuzayat, Burma. The railway spans a total distance of 415 kilometers and was completed and operational.

This particular section of the railway is located behind Phutthakian Temple. It follows the original route, with traces of the terrain being cut through the base of the mountains to create a flat path for the railway to run along the mountain's edge. The old railway tracks and sleepers (not the original ones from the Japanese army) were reinstalled by the temple as a way to commemorate the past and promote historical tourism. This site is considered a fascinating place to explore, and the initial impression upon arrival is truly spine-chilling.

🚂 Location: The hillside area behind Phutthakian Temple, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi Province.

Post by Mimijoy | May 12, 2025