A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Tarutao vs. Kanchanaburi for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

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 Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Kanchanaburi

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

Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kanchanaburi. Although Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi are both popular with visitors, Kanchanaburi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kanchanaburi is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. It is also home to The Death Railway Bridge ("the Bridge on the River Kwai"). Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Kanchanaburi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kanchanaburi is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Kanchanaburi is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Nightlife?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Koh Tarutao, but you'll find a few options to choose from. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Kanchanaburi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi are good family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

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 Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Couples?

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

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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 Tarutao or Kanchanaburi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good 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 Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Kanchanaburi or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi. In our opinion, Kanchanaburi has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kanchanaburi than Koh Tarutao. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kanchanaburi than Koh Tarutao 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 Kanchanaburi.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this secluded 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the educational 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.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the reflective 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.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

You'll find around the undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The informative 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.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Koh Tarutao 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.

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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Kanchanaburi, we can see that Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Kanchanaburi Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi in the Summer?

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

The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi in the Autumn?

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

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Kanchanaburi. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi in the Winter?

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

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Kanchanaburi. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kanchanaburi in the Spring?

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

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Kanchanaburi. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kanchanaburi receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In April, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Kanchanaburi. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 29°C (85°F), and Kanchanaburi fluctuates around 32°C (89°F).

Typical Weather for Kanchanaburi and Koh Tarutao