From swimming in the river, to visiting the Mon Village (Burmese tribe who resettled in Thailand) and more – we personally guarantee that a trip to Kanchanaburi would not be complete without a stay at one of these incredible floatels. (Read: Floating Hotels)
Want to get closer to nature? You can’t get much closer than actually floating on a river, surrounded by mountains, jungle and the calls of the wild.
Also read:
7 overwater bungalows in Kanchanaburi with incredible lake views
22 Incredible things to do in and around Kanchanaburi
Floatels are popular in Kanchanaburi simply because they allow you to truly live amidst nature.
Kanchanaburi offers amazing views, authentic experiences, and now you can enjoy them from a whole new perspective.
These 10 traditional floating resorts are beautiful, adventurous, and will give you the opportunity to experience Thailand in a brand new way!
PS: To fully enjoy your Kanchanaburi trip, we recommend getting a private car charter. We personally used Klook’s Private Car Charter and it was not only convenient, but super comfortable too!
1. A luxurious floating ark-like sanctuary – Z9 Resort
Z9 Resort is the latest in floating villas and offers a quietly luxurious retreat on the river.
It’s a pretty exclusive stay, with only 15 rooms available – and the designs reflect a meditative energy throughout.
Photo via nok_nok_69
Photo via sneakoutclub
You can go for the North wing which is more laid back or the South, which is built for two. Every room comes equipped with life jackets, so even if you can’t swim, you can still take a dip in the river!
Photo via gaps.go, june_juneee
Photo via t.buachum
You will be able to catch dazzling sunsets over the open water, from the comfort of your room and also grab a bite at their on-site restaurant and bakery. (Perfect for those who don’t feel like leaving the resort and it’s relaxing ambiance.)
Photos via milemind.ccs, Sneakoutclub
Enjoy the quiet and lounge on the decks or go canoeing; you will find your peace of mind here.
Photo via oychonlada
Z9 Resort
Rate: From 4500 Baht / USD $142
Address: 71250 Si Sawat, Kanchanaburi, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 63 239 4459
Website
Check Rate on Agoda
2. Where all your troubles float away – The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort
Undoubtedly one of the most luxurious on our list, your river adventure starts with a 7 minute longtail boat trip – as you transfer from the private Phutakien Pier to your luxury villa – much more fun than a boring taxi!
The floating air-conditioned villas are large, with beautiful teakwood furniture and traditional thatched roofs.
Photo by TripCanvas
Your private balcony complete with deck chairs and a porch swing, bobs gently on the river, the perfect place to relax.
Photo Via Hung_tzu_ting,-Joobjubilee
Photo by TripCanvas
For those who’d love a swim in the river, there’s a float on a rope for safety (and fun) too.
Photo by TripCanvas
The hotel is based on ‘Contemporary Boutique Folk Style’ – and when you see the relaxing swing benches complete with straw roofs, and colourful soft furnishings you will totally understand.
Photo by TripCanvas
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the riverside restaurant, watching the sun set across the surrounding jungle.
Photo by TripCanvas
Why not take a trip out and go for a hike to check out the local scenery? Simply head to the restaurant and cross the small bridge there to get to the starting point. From here, you’ll be able to head to the cavernous Lawa Cave, Mon Village, Wat Mon and more!
The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort has a strong sustainability and environmental ethos, making sure they fit in with the beautiful jungle surroundings – ensuring you feel even closer to nature.
Be at one with the river and let your worries float away at the gorgeous stay.
PS: It’s an extraordinary sensation every time a longtail boat passes by. Your villa and balcony will bob along to the moving current of the river!
The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort
Rate: From USD 4124 Baht / approx. USD $131
Address: 55 Moo 5 Tambol Wangkrajae, Amphur Saiyok, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66(0) 84 725 8686
Website
Check Rate on Agoda 3. An unforgettable stay with unforgettable views – Saiyok Floatel
These gorgeous floating villas fit perfectly into the natural background, and with the polished teak and foliage you might never find them.
The surroundings are spectacular; whether the sun is shining or the mist rolling along the valley, you will catch some amazing photos.
Your floating room not only has a balcony stretching out onto the river, but lots of windows which means you can always enjoy the views.
Photo Via Cameramansurfing
Not only do you have River Kwai to swim in, Saiyok Floatel also has a beautiful and clean swimming pool.
Photo Via Kunnooeye
There are lots of activities around to keep you entertained. Explore the local caves and waterfalls to truly understand the natural beauty of the area.
Photo Via Laongdao12,Strong_twc
Enjoy a wide variety of delicious meals under the traditional canopy of the open air restaurant and soak up the jungle sounds.
Photo Via Mickeyfest
Make sure you make the most of the buffet breakfast, you’ll have a long day of exploring ahead!
4. A whole new meaning to ‘rafting’ – Wang Nok Kaew Park View Resort
Floating along the bank of the Kwai Noi riverside in Soi Yok are a line of wooden raft villas – Wang Nok Park.
Photo Via Beeboinstagram
Even the Standard Raft option is amazing; air conditioning, hot water, free WiFi….oh and amazing views of the river flowing past.
If you love the water then you may choose from both the natural river or the deluxe swimming pool to take a dip.
Photo Via Patt.nun,Zeppaetpd
Photo Via Aomy.kanlaya, Koratvan1
After a busy day why not relax in the hammock on your private balcony, or have a traditional Thai massage?
Photo Via Betakamrai
Photo Via Chanansy
You certainly won’t go hungry with the buffet breakfast feast and varied menu at the riverside restaurant.
Photo Via Seb_ck_siam_compound
If you can tear yourself away from your floating raft, visit the nearby Hellfire Pass Museum or Prasat Muang Sing historical park.
Pack your swimwear – it’s time to go ‘rafting’!
5. Lets have some waterslide fun – Koh Mueangkarn Paradise View Resort
Majestic mountains on one side and the lazy river on the other, you can’t find better surroundings than this.
Photo Via Panglovelove
Stay in a cosy riverside room, with a queen-sized bed and unusual mosaic decoration.
Photo Via Sawitala
When you’re down by a river, what do you want? How about rubber rings and a waterslide! Koh Mueangkarn Paradise View Resort provides many toys to play with, so it’s time for some fun.
Photo Via Sombozzio
There are water activities to suit everyone, even motorised water sports for the daredevils.
Photo Via Gagaamax
Discover the rest of the river with a complimentary river raft trip, sit back and take in the sights with a cold Chang beer or Coca Cola in your hand.
Photo Via Nune_jung
Go fishing and cook your catch on the BBQ – don’t worry if you don’t catch a fish though, the food in the restaurant is amazing.
Photo Via Chaokc
A great place to stay and and enjoy the river views!
Koh Mueangkarn Paradise View Resort
Rate: From 1888 Baht / approx. USD $60
Address: 52 Tha Sao, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 85 070 4232
Website
Check rate on Agoda Check rate on Booking.com 6. It’s time to rumble in the jungle – River Kwai Jungle View
The name of this resort says it all – amazing floating riverside rooms on the River Kwai with incredible views of the lush jungle.
Photo Via Breezyliza
The resort is on a gentle bend in the river so the water is shallower, calmer and so clear. Perfect for swimming or feeding the darting silver schools of fish from your private balcony.
Photo Via Muskruawan
The location allows for perfect views of the sun setting across the water, and dropping behind the sprawling palm trees.
The rooms are large and simply decorated with a dark teak interior, but we doubt you will spend much time here when you have the whole river to explore.
The restaurant is also really cool, looking out across the river and jungle and offering some delicious authentic meals. You have to try the rice dishes!
Photo Via Ice_thongnaka
Like your snacks? Well, the lobby shop is packed with sweets and treats so you never have to go far.
Stay in the heart of the jungle at River Kwai Jungle View!
River Kwai Jungle View
Rate: From 1573 Baht / approx. USD $50
Address: 76/1 Moo 1, Khang Pra Lom, SaiYok, Kanchanaburi, Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi, Thailand, 71150 (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 64 979 9146
Website
Check Rate on Agoda 7. Back to the beautiful basics at your secret river oasis – Boutique Raft Resort Kanchanaburi
Boutique Raft Resort has a certain natural charm, with floating bamboo villas nestling against the side of River Kwai.
Photo Via Nasrenemn, Namfonspr
A perfect place to explore, grab a life jacket (safety first!) and hop on a bamboo raft for an authentic river adventure!
Photo Via Niznew
If swimming in the river is too daunting, then Raft Resort has a lovely river pool. No nasty chemicals, just a cool and relaxing natural swimming pool.
Photo Via Hong_t,Wipoo
After a delicious buffet dinner, settle down on your floating balcony – and watch the twinkling lights of your little raft village as the surrounding jungle goes to sleep.
Photo Via PiotRK
If you want a trip on dry land, then take a hike over the river on the rope bridge…if you dare!
Photo Via Nannoii,Farouq.johari
Boutique Raft Resort might look basic but it has everything you could ever want – bar, coffee shop and restaurants – there is even a golf course just 3km away!
Boutique Raft Resort Kanchanaburi
Rate: From 1886 Baht / approx. USD $60
Address: 413 Moo 3 Tambon Tha-sao, Saiyok, Kanchanaburi ,Thailand 71150 (Coordinates here)
Contact: : +668 1353 1065, +666 4137 6909
Website
Check Rate on Agoda 8. Never get bored at this adventurous resort! – Mek Kiri Riverkwai Resort (Previously known as Iya Resort )
One of our favourite things about Iya Resort are the activities that are around. I bet you have never floated down a river on an inflatable flamingo or swan?
If the river isn’t enough water for you, then book a day of ocean fishing, snorkelling or scuba-diving – the fun never stops!
Try to spot some wildlife with an 8 hour Swamp Safari adventure, or enjoy a romantic treat with a sunset River Cruise.
Don’t want to get your feet wet? Then stay on dry land and have a game of tennis.
Keep up your energy levels with buffet feasts in the restaurant, or grab something to go at the snack bar.
After such a busy day, you’re surely feeling exhausted, so return to your spacious double or twin room, ready to start it all over again tomorrow.
Photo Via Ros_kh
Mek Kiri Riverkwai Resort
Rate: From 1383 Baht / approx. USD $44
Address: 24/2 Moo 5, Tha Kha-nun, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi 71180, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 65 329 6956
Website
Check Rate on Agoda 9. Bring some brightness to your life – The HUB Erawan Resort
The outside of the floating Hub Erawan Houseboat looks traditional and keeping in with the natural surroundings, but just wait until you get inside.
Photo Via Dawjung01
The rooms are decorated in bright colors – almost as bright as the lush green jungle surrounding you!
The most unique feature of the HUB Erawan Resort sits on the balcony of your riverside room; an outside bathtub awaits you, so relax in the warm water in the most soothing of surroundings.
Photo Via Babi_boat,Phonthep_tao
Photo Via Susie_pt
Fancy yourself a fisherman? Hire a little raft for the day and try to catch one of the many fish species such as Carp, Catfish or even a giant Snakehead fish.
Photo Via Photcharakorn
If you want another water adventure, then you can spend a few days being towed on the houseboat raft on the freshwater Srinakarin Dam lake.
Photo Via Pata_pp,Puengptmu
Do you know any other hotels that can be towed around? The HUB Erawan is certainly special.
The HUB Erawan Resort
Rate: From 2296 Baht / approx. USD $73
Address: Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 93 416 5494
10. Go bananas – Banana Resort and Spa
All of the Double Riverside rooms have air-conditioning and flat screen TV’s, and of course great views across the vast river.
Photo Via Cherrypkyy
The rooms also feature quirky bathroom designs; will yours have flowery walls or a jungle scene?
There are so many ways to enjoy the river at Banana Resort; a traditional bamboo raft, canoes or even a jet ski.
Photo Via Jimmy-N
Photo Via Amazing Rafthouse
After a delicious Thai meal, sit back as the sun sets and watch the amazing Banana Resort show – prepare to be entertained!
Photo Via Coffeezelon
Wherever you explore at the Banana Resort, you will find cute statues, funny pictures and LOTS of bananas.
It doesn’t matter if you are a land lover or a water baby, the Banana Resort and Spa has something for everyone.
Photo Via Amazing-Rafthouse
The Banana Resort and Spa
Rate: From 1293 Baht / approx. USD $41
Address: 88 Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Amphoe Tha Muang, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 83 777 7724
Website
Check Rate on Agoda Special mention: The ultimate digital detox and incredible experience NOT to miss – River Kwai Jungle Rafts
What if you don’t actually need electricity and WiFi?
What if an accommodation like that is just the thing to get you away from the stress of everyday life?
There are 3 main impressions that will change when you book a stay at River Kwai Jungle Rafts.
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The knowledge that there is no electricity nor WiFi when you book this stay.
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Getting hit by the reality that there is no electricity nor WiFi when you reach this stay.
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Learning how to embrace living without electricity nor WiFi and enjoying the stars, the conversations, and the simplicity of it all during your stay.
One thing most of us do, is find and book accommodation without even thinking of electricity, and having WiFi as a definite requirement.
Photo Via Biiwzlaa
We don’t even think about it, we just look for hotels with these features.
Photo by TripCanvas
From personal experience, we can tell you that anyone who stays here will absolutely love it.
From the resort activities such as visiting the Mon Village, Elephant Camp, natural Hotsprings, Mon performance at the theatre raft, and so much more – to idling in your hammocks, laying back under the starry night sky on a floating raft just outside your door…
Photo by TripCanvas
Photo by TripCanvas
Photo by TripCanvas
This resort truly gives you much more than you will expect.
River Kwai Jungle Rafts
Rate: From 2492 Baht / approx. USD $79
Address: Baan Tahsao, Amphur Saiyok,Kanchanaburi 70150, Thailand (Coordinates here)
Contact: +66 (2) 642 6362
Website
Check Rate on Agoda All these fantastic Floatels are hidden along the banks of the famous River Kwai. Visit these hidden treasures before the word gets out!
Let us know if you’ve ever experienced staying in a floating resort before – we’d love to hear about it in the comments below! Or tag us in your next Floatel adventure using the hashtag #TripCanvas and your post could be featured on our Instagram page
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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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| PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us |
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