Hellfire Pass (Konyu Cutting), Thai-Burma Death Railway

Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi is a perfect getaway for those who want a short hiking experience. They offer two walking options: the short walk (Blue Route 1) and the long walk (Green Route 2). If you love history, you should not miss this place. It is one of the major historical highlights of Kanchanaburi, built by mostly European, American, Dutch, and Australian soldiers who were captured during the Japanese occupation in World War II. These prisoners of war were forced to work and construct the railway connecting Thailand and Burma. Hellfire Pass is free for all nationalities. It is not operated for profit, but rather to honor and remember the people who suffered and worked there. At the reception area, they will provide an audio guide with a translator that you can use to listen to the history during your walk. If you choose the long walk, they will also provide a walkie-talkie and will check on you regularly for your safety. At the end of the walk, you need to return the walkie-talkie and audio guide, but they will let you keep the headset as a souvenir. You are also welcome to give a donation in any amount if you wish.

Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi province was built by allied war prisoners during the WW2 Japanese occupation. Japan constructed a railroad between Thailand and Burma to facilitate the transport of troops and goods between Thailand and Burma and Hellfire Pass was one of the most challenging passes on the route with dense jungle in the mountains. Many war prisoners perished during the construction and the Hellfire Pass memorial was built to honor the war prisoners who suffered and died here. In the reception area there is an interesting movie about the history of Hellfire Pass and the construction of the railway. There are 2 hiking trails that passes through the Hellfire Pass itself. The memorial is easy to reach along the road between Kanchanaburi and Sangkla buri and is a worthwhile and moving stop on the way.

It was a great privilege for our family to visit the Hellfire Pass memorial museum in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, and learn about the sufferings and pains suffered by Australian, English and Dutch prisoners of war during the construction of the Death Railway. Allow yourself sufficient time to enjoy your visit - it is well worth the effort! You should not miss the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, which is officially known as the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum if you visit to Kanchanaburi.