A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kanchanaburi vs. Kuala Lumpur for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kanchanaburi and Kuala Lumpur. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a somber, informative, and educational town. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Kanchanaburi travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly, diverse, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Kanchanaburi and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Kanchanaburi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kanchanaburi is famous for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Kuala Lumpur is famous for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kanchanaburi different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kuala Lumpur and Kanchanaburi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur are world-renowned. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

Is the Food Better in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Kuala Lumpur draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kuala Lumpur is very family-friendly. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kuala Lumpur. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Kuala Lumpur is top-notch. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

For even more information, also check out Is Kanchanaburi Worth Visiting? and Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Kanchanaburi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Kanchanaburi. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kuala Lumpur, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Kanchanaburi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Kanchanaburi if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

In Kanchanaburi, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this informative town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Kanchanaburi is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the somber destination of Kanchanaburi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Kanchanaburi is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Kuala Lumpur, we can see that Kuala Lumpur is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kuala Lumpur would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kuala Lumpur than you might in Kanchanaburi.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kanchanaburi Expensive? and Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Kuala Lumpur, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's quite sunny in Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi usually receives less sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during summer. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 200 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kanchanaburi is generally around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 29°C (84°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Kanchanaburi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in October than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the autumn, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 169 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Kuala Lumpur. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during winter. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kanchanaburi in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in April than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the spring, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 199 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 32°C (89°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Kanchanaburi