Kanchanaburi has an extensive lineup of bars and pubs along its riverside stretch, from the Allied War Cemetery to slightly north of the bridge. Most riverside guesthouses also operate their own bars and some, karaoke pubs which open until the wee hours. Nightclubs are more expensive and cater mostly for well-to-do holidaymakers from Bangkok. So, expect to pay for expensive food and drinks, but the live bands and DJs make the experience worthwhile.

Budget travellers will find themselves at home in the bars on Mae Nam Kwae Road. Favoured by backpackers looking to share travel tales as well as good times, these venues offer a relaxing, friendly atmosphere in which you can feel totally at ease. Most have a pool table, TVs and an outdoor seating area where you can just sit and people watch. South of the main backpacker’s strip, Song Kwae Road is home to a large concentration of brash pubs and clubbing venues.