Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, also known as Don-Rak War Cemetery, is a solemn and beautifully maintained site that commemorates the thousands of Allied prisoners of war (POWs) who perished during the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway during World War II. Located in the heart of Kanchanaburi town, the cemetery is the final resting place for nearly 7,000 POWs, primarily from Britain, Australia, and the Netherlands. These men endured unimaginable hardships as they were forced to build what came to be known as the Death Railway under brutal conditions.

The cemetery is meticulously arranged with rows of headstones, each bearing the names, ranks, and regiments of the deceased. Many also include heartfelt inscriptions from their families, adding a personal and emotional touch to the historical tragedy. The cemetery’s serene atmosphere and beautifully landscaped gardens make it a poignant place for reflection. Nearby, the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre provides additional context about the events that led to the creation of the railway and the suffering of those who worked on it, enriching visitors’ understanding of this dark chapter in history.

The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Kanchanaburi!

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