Thailand to Singapore day 3

Mon bridge Sangkha Buri

11.01.25 – Sangkhla Buri to Sai Yok

A Relaxed Day on Two Wheels: Sangkhla Buri to Wang Pho, Sai Yok

Motorbike trips often strike the perfect balance between adventure, freedom, and exploration. Sometimes, however, the most memorable journeys are the ones where we take it easy, embrace the scenery, and immerse ourselves in local history. Our ride from Sangkhla Buri to Wang Pho in Sai Yok was just that—a relaxing yet fascinating day filled with beautiful views, historic sites, and unexpected moments of wonder. Here’s how our day unfolded.

A Slow Start

We decided to take it easy today. After all, not every day on the bike needs to be packed with adrenaline-fueled rides. We started our morning by sleeping in a bit. After a leisurely wake-up at 8 AM, we had a relaxed breakfast at 9, allowing ourselves time to savor the flavors and get into the rhythm of a low-key ride. By 10 AM, we were finally ready to hit the road.

Stop 1: The Mon Bridge in Sangkhla Buri

Our first stop of the day was just a short ride away from our accommodation. Sangkhla Buri is known for its incredible Mon Bridge, the longest wooden bridge in Thailand, which spans the Songkalia River. We arrived just as the sun was beginning to rise higher, casting a soft, golden light across the valley. The view was truly picturesque, with the bridge stretching across the river, surrounded by lush greenery, and the misty mountains rising in the background. It was the perfect place to start our journey and take in the beauty of the region.

The Mon Bridge itself is a marvel of craftsmanship, and it’s clear that it has historical significance to the local Mon people. As we crossed the bridge, we noticed fishermen heading out for their daily catch, and locals walking to and fro across the wooden planks. It’s a living, breathing piece of history, and we took a few moments to enjoy the tranquil setting before moving on.

Stop 2: The 3 Pagoda Pass

From Sangkhla Buri, we headed north towards the 3 Pagoda Pass, located about 20 kilometers from the town and close to the Myanmar border. The route, Highway 323, was a straightforward one, with almost entirely straight roads, which didn’t provide much excitement for the motorbike enthusiast. But we didn’t mind—it was a pleasant and easy ride that allowed us to simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.

As we neared the 3 Pagoda Pass, we noticed an increasing military presence, as well as small border towns and shops selling goods to both locals and tourists alike. At the 3 Pagoda Pass itself, the highlight was, of course, the three pagodas. They were much smaller than we expected, but their simplicity and the surrounding landscape still made for a unique sight.

The pagodas were nestled at the end of the road, where it meets the border. This spot is an important landmark that’s tied to the history of World War II. It was here that the famous Death Railway was constructed, and we could sense a lingering aura of history that made the area feel significant. Nearby, there were market stalls, the local immigration office, and border offices, all adding to the feeling of being at the edge of a different world.

3 pagoda pass, Kanchanaburi, Thailand

At the market, we were tempted by the local food offerings and crafts, but we didn’t linger too long. We were more interested in the stories we’d heard about the area, especially regarding the railway that passed through these parts during the war. The Death Railway, built by Allied prisoners of war, is one of the darkest chapters of World War II history, and visiting this area was a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.

The Return Journey: Riding the 323 Back to Kanchanaburi

After our brief exploration of the 3 Pagoda Pass, we turned back and headed south on Route 323 toward Kanchanaburi. While the first part of the journey had been rather uneventful in terms of road conditions, the return leg was a real treat for the senses. As we rode through the mountainous landscape, the views were spectacular.

The winding roads, surrounded by forests, gave us a sense of solitude and serenity, while the Vajiralongkhorn Dam, with its vast expanse of water, offered a welcome break from the rugged hills.

The combination of mountainous terrain and the calm waters of the dam made for a peaceful ride, and we took our time soaking it all in. Unfortunately, as we continued on the road, it straightened out, and the scenery became less exciting. The last stretch of the journey felt a little more monotonous, as the road became flat and predictable. Nonetheless, we didn’t let the dullness of the road spoil our mood—sometimes, a little boredom on the road gives us the chance to reflect on the places we’ve been and the people we’ve met along the way.

Resting in Sai Yok: Saiyok Escape

After covering around 220 kilometers, we decided to call it a day and take a well-deserved break in Sai Yok, a small town just outside of Kanchanaburi. We checked into a charming accommodation called Saitok Escape, which offered fantastic value for money at just 850 Baht per night. It was a peaceful retreat that allowed us to relax and refresh ourselves for the evening. The property was well-maintained, with comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere that made it the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the road.

The Death Railway: Walking the Tracks

As evening approached, we decided to make the most of the day by visiting one of the most iconic historical sites in the region—the Death Railway. This railway line, built during World War II, was infamous for its brutal construction, during which thousands of prisoners of war and forced laborers lost their lives. We boarded the last train from Sai Yok to Wang Pho, but we got off after just one stop to experience the famous stretch of the railway that runs high above the River Kwai.

Walking along the tracks, we were struck by the sheer scale of the construction. The railway clings to the steep cliffs above the river, and the feeling of walking along such a high and precarious stretch of track was both exhilarating and eerie. The sound of the rushing water below, combined with the historical significance of the site, created a chilling atmosphere that left a lasting impression.

A Day Well Spent

In the end, our ride from Sangkhla Buri to Sai Yok was a wonderfully relaxed yet deeply enriching day. We had the chance to take in some stunning views, explore a bit of local history, and experience the quiet beauty of rural Thailand. The combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical intrigue made for a memorable journey, and we left with new perspectives on both the region and its past.

While it wasn’t the most action-packed ride we’ve ever had, it was certainly one of the most rewarding. Sometimes, slowing down and taking it easy can lead to the most surprising and enriching experiences. If you ever find yourself in this part of Thailand, be sure to take your time, soak in the views, and appreciate the history that’s hidden in every corner of this fascinating region.

Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!

#dustysocks

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