A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lanta vs. Kanchanaburi for Couples, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a peaceful, quiet, and beautiful island. Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a informative, educational, and reflective town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kanchanaburi travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Lanta than Kanchanaburi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Lanta is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kanchanaburi is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Koh Lanta is well known for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park. Also, Koh Lanta is famous for Long Beach.

How is Koh Lanta different from Kanchanaburi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island 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 Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

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

Koh Lanta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

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 Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi has a better nightlife scene.

Koh Lanta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

If you're looking for night time activities Kanchanaburi has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Koh Lanta offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Kanchanaburi offers some nice shopping areas. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Lanta is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Families?

Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta is very family-friendly. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

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 Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Lanta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

Kanchanaburi is a good island 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 Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lanta is a good island to visit for backpackers. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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.

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

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

Should I spend more time in Kanchanaburi or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Lanta than in Kanchanaburi. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kanchanaburi.

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

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

One day in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tranquil island 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kanchanaburi. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Koh Lanta is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the somber destination of Kanchanaburi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this tranquil destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the educational town of Kanchanaburi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Koh Lanta 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.

Kanchanaburi is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi, we can see that Koh Lanta is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi, 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 Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi?

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 Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year.

June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Lanta this time of the year. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets more sunshine than Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanchanaburi receives 176 hours of full sun.

Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta usually receives less sunshine than Kanchanaburi during autumn. Koh Lanta gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Kanchanaburi receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In the autumn, Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Lanta in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Kanchanaburi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi in the Winter?

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

January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in January than Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the winter, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanchanaburi receives 276 hours of full sun.

In January, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (80°F), and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Kanchanaburi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Kanchanaburi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In Koh Lanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kanchanaburi during spring. Koh Lanta gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Kanchanaburi receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

The heat can be very extreme in Kanchanaburi. Koh Lanta is around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 32°C (89°F).

Typical Weather for Kanchanaburi and Koh Lanta