Planning your trip
Introduction
How to get there?
From Kanchanaburi township, take Highway 323 to reach Sai Yok district. The Centre is approximately 80 km from town, and the drive usually takes approximately one hour.
Be sure to enter the full name ‘Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre’ in your GPS. Using other names may lead you to the wrong place.
Some parts of the drive have winding roads with steep climbs over hills and mountains.
Service stations are few and far between, so make sure your vehicle is prepared for a long drive.
Visitors can take the Kanchanaburi – Thong Pa Poom or Kanchanaburi – Sangkhlaburi public bus to reach the Centre. Both routes use large red buses that depart from the Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal.
The trip takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours due to several stops, but many find the scenic views worth it. Tickets cost approximately 60 THB and can be bought on the bus. Be sure to tell the conductor that you want to get off at Hellfire Pass or ‘Chong Khao Khad’ (ช่องเขาขาด in Thai). The bus stops at the front gate of the Thai military base, where our Centre is located.
When leaving, you can take the same bus back to Kanchanaburi by waiting at the stop on the opposite side of the main road. Buses run hourly.
Another option to reach Hellfire Pass is by taking a minivan from the Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal. These minivans travel between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi (Three Pagodas Pass) and can drop you off at the front gate if you ask.
When buying your ticket, tell the staff you want to stop at Hellfire Pass or ‘Chong Khao Khad’ (ช่องเขาขาด) in Thai. Minivan tickets cost more than the public bus, approximately 120 THB. The minivans leave from a designated area near the main building of Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal.
Please note that minivans do not pick up passengers midway, so you can’t take one back to Kanchanaburi after your visit.
Travellers can still ride the Burma-Thailand Railway on the remaining 130 km of track. The last station, Nam Tok, is approximately 20 km from the Interpretive Centre.
From Kanchanaburi station, you can take a commuter train that runs twice a day. Check the schedule on the official State Railway of Thailand website.
At Nam Tok station, you can either take a local taxi to the Centre or wait for the public bus on the main road, which runs every hour. Be sure to negotiate the taxi fare clearly with the driver and confirm what is included in the price.
Prepare for your trip
Embarking on the historic trail at Hellfire Pass is a profound experience, filled with history and memories. To ensure a safe and rewarding journey, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here are some essential tips to consider before you begin:
Wear appropriate footwear
Choose sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good ankle support and slip-resistant soles to handle rocky and uneven surfaces.
Check your fitness level
The trail has steep climbs and rough terrain. Assess your physical condition, especially heart health, to ensure you can safely complete the walk.
Sun Protection and Insect Repellent
The sun can be intense. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, apply high SPF sunscreen regularly, and use UV-protective sunglasses.
Remember to bring insect repellent and apply it regularly.
Stay Hydrated
Heat and humidity can cause dehydration quickly. Bring enough water for the duration of your hike and drink regularly.
Be Mindful of Wildlife
The trail is home to various wildlife. Keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding any animals.
Plan for the Weather
Check the weather forecast before you go. Be ready for sudden changes, like rain showers, which can make the trail slippery.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your visit is both memorable and safe.
Walking Trail
Walk 1
Interpretive centre to the memorial Obelisk in Konyu Cutting
Audio Guide
Centre staff can assist you in accessing an audio guide to better understand the construction of the railway and the experiences of those who worked on it.
Timing
Allow up to 45 minutes-1 hour for the return journey.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Preparation
Bring water for the return journey and wear sturdy covered shoes.
Apply suncreen and insect repellent as needed.
around point
Walk 2
Interpretive centre to Hintok Road
Audio Guide
Centre staff can assist you in accessing an audio guide to help you better understand the construction of the railway and the experiences of those who worked on it.
Timing
Allow up to 3 hours for the return journey.
Fitness
A high level of fitness is required.
Preparation
Bring water for the return journey and wear sturdy, covered shoes.
Apply sunscreen and insect repellent as needed.
Safety Radio required for Walk 2.
Safety
Please note that there is very little shelter along the route, which includes steep climbs and declines—even where steps have been constructed. Uneven ground and running water during the wet season may also pose a hazard.
Parking
The Interpretive Centre has three parking areas with space for over 90 vehicles. Car Park 1 can hold up to three buses, with more bus spaces available in the overflow car park. There are also designated spots for motorcycles. All vehicles must turn off their engines while parked.
around point
Plan your visit
Group Bookings
Individuals are welcomed free of charge without bookings during opening hours.
Parking
The Interpretive Centre has three parking areas with space for over 90 vehicles. Car Park 1 can hold up to three buses, with more bus spaces available in the overflow car park.
There are also designated spots for motorcycles. All vehicles must turn off their engines while parked.
