Mon people on the Red Bridge
During my recent 10-day media trip through Kanchanaburi province, I had the pleasure of visiting Sangkhlaburi, a town nestled on Thailand’s western frontier. This unique destination, located near the Myanmar border, is a vibrant fusion of Thai and Mon cultures, all set against a backdrop of serene landscapes. Surrounded by lush mountains and the calm waters of the Khao Laem Reservoir, Sangkhlaburi offers travelers a blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking nature, and a rich historical tapestry that captures the spirit of Thailand‘s borderlands.
One of the main highlights is the Mon Bridge (Uttamanusorn Bridge), which crosses the Songkaria River.
Wat Somdet
This bridge is not only one of the longest wooden bridges in the world but also a symbol of unity, linking the Mon village with the town center. Walking along the Mon Bridge feels like crossing a symbolic threshold between the Mon and Thai communities, where ancient Mon traditions and Thai influences intertwine in harmony. At night, the area transforms with cool temperatures, a gift of the lake’s humidity and the region’s altitude, creating a refreshingly tranquil setting.
Wat Saam Prasob
Sangkhlaburi is also home to several cultural and historical landmarks. A key attraction is Wat Saam Prasob, also known as the Underwater Temple, which is submerged in Khao Laem Lake and emerges seasonally as water levels fluctuate, giving visitors an evocative glimpse into the past. We decided to take the popular 3 Sunken Temples Boat Tour by traditional longtail boat from one of the guys stationed at the city end of the Mon Bridge who will offer the tour, who charged us 200 thb each. The first temple on the tour was the Wat Somdet, inside which we marvelled at an old Buddha image.
the old submerged Wat Wang Wiwekaram
This temple is higher up on the hill, so we had to hike a bit to get there. Its edifice walls are partially enveloped in tree roots, which give it a special aura.
Next on the list was the submerged old temple of Wat Wang Wiwekaram, which was inundated in 1968 when the Vajiralongkorn Dam was constructed, is revered by the Mon people and has become a tourist attraction known as Sangkhlaburi Underwater Temple. Not much of the temple was above water but we still felt amazed by the sight of it.
The new Wat Wang Wiwekaram
The new Wat Wang Wiwekaram is located on a high hill and was built under the leadership of the revered Buddhist monk Luang Pho Uttama, whose mummified body is preserved within the temple in a glass coffin. Not far from town is Phutthakhaya Chedi, an impressive golden structure inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple in India, symbolizing the area’s Buddhist heritage.
the Three Pagodas Pass
For those interested in exploring further, the Three Pagodas Pass is another noteworthy site. Although the pass itself is closed to foreigners, the surrounding area is home to Mon and Karen communities, offering a chance to experience local crafts and visit traditional villages. Historically, this pass served as a trade route and, according to tradition, was instrumental in spreading Buddhism into Thailand around the 3rd century AD.
Sangkhlaburi is a destination that beckons travellers to stay a while—at least two nights are recommended to fully absorb the town’s charm. Evenings come alive with the gentle buzz of night markets, friendly faces, and an unhurried rhythm that invites relaxation. From the iconic Mon Bridge to the historic sites and vibrant local communities, Sangkhlaburi leaves a lasting impression as a truly unique meeting point of cultures, histories, and breathtaking scenery in the heart of Kanchanaburi province.
Sangkhla Village Boutique Hotel
Asian Itinerary stayed at Sangkhla Village. This inviting boutique hotel blends modern comforts with touches of Roman styles (statues and fountains), creating a unique and warm ambiance that complements the nearby landscapes and iconic sites like the Mon Bridge, just a short walk away.
