A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Kanchanaburi vs. Khao Lak for Couples, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a informative, educational, and reflective town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Khao Lak. Although Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak are popular destinations, Khao Lak has more sights and attractions for tourists. Khao Lak is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Kanchanaburi attracts visitors for its museums. Kanchanaburi is famous for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. It is also well known for Khao Sok National Park.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Khao Lak?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Khao Lak and Kanchanaburi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Kanchanaburi is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kanchanaburi. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Kanchanaburi has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Khao Lak area. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanchanaburi. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is an amazing area to visit for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kanchanaburi. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Many visitors go to Khao Lak to go shopping. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Khao Lak is very family-friendly. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an amazing area to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak.

Kanchanaburi has some public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

You'll find some public transit in Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Kanchanaburi is somewhat walkable. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable town. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Kanchanaburi Worth Visiting? and Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Khao Lak or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Both Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Kanchanaburi. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 5-7 days is enough time in Khao Lak.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Kanchanaburi. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Khao Lak, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Kanchanaburi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak than Kanchanaburi if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Khao Lak.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

The town of Kanchanaburi offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this idyllic area offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kanchanaburi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Kanchanaburi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this laid back destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Khao Lak is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Kanchanaburi.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kanchanaburi Expensive? and Is Khao Lak Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Kanchanaburi has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak in the Summer?

Both Khao Lak and Kanchanaburi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round.

July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 206 hours of full sun.

In July, Kanchanaburi is generally around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 29°C (84°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Khao Lak. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Khao Lak during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Khao Lak in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Khao Lak receives 287 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kanchanaburi in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Khao Lak in the Spring?

Both Khao Lak and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Khao Lak during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Khao Lak receives 249 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kanchanaburi can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 32°C (89°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 29°C (83°F).

Typical Weather for Khao Lak and Kanchanaburi