A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kanchanaburi vs. Rockhampton for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

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 Rockhampton. 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 somber, informative, and educational town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a traditional, charming, and cultural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rockhampton. Although Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton are about the same size, Rockhampton has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kanchanaburi is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Rockhampton is popular for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. It is also home to the Rockhampton Heritage Village.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Rockhampton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.

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

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Rockhampton has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. 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.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton.

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.

Rockhampton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Rockhampton is a good destination for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Rockhampton offers a nice beach destination. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton.

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 Rockhampton to go shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Rockhampton 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, Rockhampton is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

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 Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Rockhampton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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 Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Rockhampton. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Rockhampton is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Kanchanaburi is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Rockhampton is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rockhampton due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rockhampton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the informative town of Kanchanaburi. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Rockhampton, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this traditional town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the informative destination of Kanchanaburi. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Rockhampton is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

The somber town of Kanchanaburi offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Rockhampton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanchanaburi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Rockhampton is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kanchanaburi is in Asia and Rockhampton is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Rockhampton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton, 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 Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kanchanaburi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton in the Summer?

Both Rockhampton and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Rockhampton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kanchanaburi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rockhampton. In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Rockhamptonin January. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

Both Rockhampton and Kanchanaburi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Rockhamptonin April. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Rockhampton in the winter. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in July.

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Rockhamptonin July. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Rockhampton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Rockhampton. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

The heat can be very extreme in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kanchanaburi in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in October.

Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Kanchanaburi