Discover Your Next
Adventure with Us

Explore Sangkhlaburi the Low Carbon Way

Paddling • Nature Adventures • Local Culture

Why LowCarbonSangkhlaburi?

Golden Chedi Buddhakaya on a lush green hill overlooking Vajiralongkorn Lake in Sangkhlaburi, Thailand

Sangkhlaburi & Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi: A Journey of Culture, Nature, and Sustainable Travel.

When travelers dream of Thailand, they often picture emerald jungles, golden temples, and the serene charm of rural villages. In Sangkhlaburi, independent travelers can find all of this—and more. Nestled in the hills near the Myanmar border, Sangkhlaburi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a deeply rooted sense of community shaped by generations of coexistence among diverse ethnic groups.

Located approximately 225 kilometers northwest of Kanchanaburi and just 24 kilometers from the Myanmar border, Sangkhlaburi feels worlds away from Thailand’s bustling tourist centers. Surrounded by forested limestone mountains and hugging the edge of Vajiralongkorn Lake (formerly Khao Laem Lake), this peaceful town is a destination for those seeking authentic experiences and meaningful connections.

The lake itself is a man-made reservoir formed in 1982 with the construction of the Vajiralongkorn Dam. Beneath its waters lies the original village of Sangkhlaburi, now submerged except for the visible top of a temple wiharn and stupa when water levels drop. A boat ride across the mirror-like surface of the lake at sunrise is a truly magical experience.

But beyond the misty lake and scenic surroundings lies something deeper—the soul of Sangkhlaburi is found in its people. Here, Thai, Mon, Karen, and Burmese communities have lived together for generations, weaving a vibrant tapestry of languages, customs, spiritual beliefs, and daily practices. The three rivers—Songkalia, Ranti, and Bikhli—that merge to form the place known as “Sam Prasob” not only nourish the land but have long served as cultural crossroads for trade, communication, and shared traditions.

This harmony between people and nature is what inspired the creation of Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi, a local initiative that promotes sustainable tourism rooted in cultural appreciation and environmental responsibility. As tourism continues to grow, Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi aims to ensure that it benefits the local community without harming the delicate balance of nature or diluting cultural authenticity.

A wooden pier extends over calm water and is shrouded in fog. Silhouettes of people are walking on the pier, and the sunlight is diffused by the fog creating a soft, muted atmosphere.
People swimming in the water under a wooden dock, viewed from above.
Silhouette of a person paddling a stand-up paddleboard on calm water with misty background and distant structures.

At the heart of this movement are low-impact, immersive activities that invite travelers to connect meaningfully with the land and its people:

  • Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Glide quietly along the Songkalia and Ranti Rivers, experiencing the beauty of Sangkhlaburi from the water without noise or pollution.

  • Cycling: Explore the town and its surroundings on two wheels, stopping to interact with locals and take in scenic views at your own pace.

  • Walking and Photography: Wander through the community, observing the details of traditional architecture, daily life, and nature—capturing stories one frame at a time.

Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi also places strong emphasis on preserving the cultural identities of the ethnic groups who call this place home. Through storytelling, language sharing, and cultural exchange, travelers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the local way of life—be it Mon temple architecture, Karen forest wisdom, or Burmese spiritual traditions.

Supporting the local economy is another key mission. Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi promotes the use of seasonal, locally sourced produce in meals served to visitors, allowing them to enjoy authentic flavors while supporting local farmers and food producers. The initiative also helps train and empower local guides who are knowledgeable in history, nature, and culture, and supports community-based photographers and artisans by providing platforms for them to share their work and earn an income.

This is not just tourism—it’s co-creation. A journey with Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi is one of mutual respect, where travelers contribute to the sustainability of the land and livelihoods of those who live there. By choosing this path, visitors help ensure that Sangkhlaburi remains a magical destination for generations to come—where nature is honored, cultures are celebrated, and travel becomes a force for good. 🌿💚

Traditional Sangkhlaburi local food made from seasonal and organic ingredients
Local children smiling in an ethnic village in Sangkhlaburi
Tourists paddle SUP board on Songkalia River, Sangkhlaburi’s eco-friendly adventure
“We are a local initiative promoting eco-friendly, low-carbon travel in Sangkhlaburi.
Enjoy nature while supporting local communities.”
— Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi

📍 Paddle SUP / kayak through misty waters
🍛 Taste authentic Mon–Karen cuisine
📸 Guided photo tours with pro photographers
🌱 Support sustainable farming

Testimonials

Google review by Oliver Buchanan praising a paddle activity in Sangkhla Buri. Mentions beautiful sunset views, great equipment, and waterproof phone protectors. Response from Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi team expressing gratitude.
Facebook post about paddle boarding in Sangkhlaburi. User describes a relaxing experience and praises the guide, Chain. Post includes likes and a comment from "Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi" thanking the user for participating.
Screenshot of a 5-star Google review for Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi, written by "Tartiflette Fourever." The review praises an amazing paddle trip in Sangkhlaburi with a guide named Chain, highlighting the enjoyment of the lake and local history. The review highly recommends this experience. Lowcarbon Sangkhlaburi responds, thanking the reviewer for joining and having a good experience.

A real low-carbon adventure in Sangkhlaburi, Thailand.
Follow a small group of travellers as they paddle stand-up paddleboards (SUP) along the peaceful Songkalia River at sunrise, explore the vibrant morning market, and discover the multicultural life of this border town. The journey ends with stunning views of the golden Bodhgaya-style stupa and the giant Buddha statue on the hill.

SUP Boarding to the Sunken Temple of Sangkhlaburi – A Serene Morning Experience
Glide across the calm waters of the Songkalia River on a stand-up paddleboard and discover the haunting beauty of the Sunken Temple (Wat Saam Prasob)—a spiritual site that emerges above water only during the dry season. This is one of Sangkhlaburi’s most iconic and photogenic spots.

A Morning Walk Through Sangkhlaburi’s Local Market – Discover Borderland Life at Sunrise
Begin your day in Sangkhlaburi with a slow stroll through its vibrant morning market. As the town wakes up, the air fills with the aroma of local delicacies and the sounds of friendly chatter among Thai, Mon, and Karen vendors. This is where cultures meet — in handmade foods, seasonal produce, and everyday life.

"And this is just a taste of the vibrant spirit of Sangkhlaburi, where living in harmony with nature and a tapestry of cultures beautifully intertwine. Ever wondered about the gentle smiles and unique traditions of the Mon people? Or perhaps you're curious about the deep connection to the land and rich heritage of the Karen community? Discover more about these fascinating neighbors and their contributions to the heart of Sangkhlaburi… and uncover the stories behind the smiles."

 

Contact / Booking

📞 083-088-5362
📱 Line: @kacedd

📧 kacedd@lowcarbonsangkhlaburi.com