Three Pagodas Pass (Phra Chedi Sam Ong)

The three diminutive white-washed chedis (pagodas) of the Three Pagodas Pass are rather an anti-climax after the long and arduous journey it takes to get to the site. Located 23 km northwest of Sangkhla Buri District, and about 18 km from Thong Pha Phum District, the sacred stupas were built in remembrance of those who died building the Death Railway during World War II. The railway passed through this spot on its way to Burma and the invasion route to British India. The pass is about 300 m (985 ft) above sea level.

For centuries, the Three Pagodas Pass has acted as a trading point for Thais and Burmese. Visitors to the area are usually permitted to cross the border on a one-day visa (depending on the current political situation) to the Burmese town of Pyathonzu. For longer stays, a four-week tourist visa for Myanmar can be obtained from the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok.

The journey to the Pass takes in some of Thailand's most spectacular scenery with tooth-shaped karst mountains and dense forests. The trip takes about a day and requires a stopover for the night in Sangkhla Buri, 200 km northwest of Kanchanaburi town. From Sangkhla Buri, frequent songthaews travel the route to the Pass. Because of the treacherous roads in the area, this trip is not recommended during the rainy season.

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