You didn’t come this far to stop
Arriving at Tha Kirin
and place to catch the Train
Episode 69: Arriving at Tha Kirin and Awaiting the Train
In this episode, the St. Andrews research team continues our exploration with our guide, Andrew Snow. We depart from the Burma Railway Museum, filled with anticipation for our next adventure. Our destination today is Tha Kirin, with the stop code 4069. This significant stop lies on the other side of the Phong Cutting, and it is here that we begin our journey.
IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS BLOGDUNLOP RESEARCH TRIP 3WEARY DUNLOP TRAILWW2 HISTORY
Toursofwar.com
6/24/20244 min read
Tha Kirin:
A Historical Landmark
Tha Kirin was a major supply station during the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway. It took 1,000 POWs 17 grueling days to build this section, working around the clock in two shifts. Despite facing starvation and severe beatings, these men accomplished an incredible feat of engineering in an astonishingly short amount of time under extremely harsh conditions.
Arrival and Exploration
Tha Kirin was a major supply station during the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway. It took 1,000 POWs 17 grueling days to build this section, working around the clock in two shifts. Despite facing starvation and severe beatings, these men accomplished an incredible feat of engineering in an astonishingly short amount of time under extremely harsh conditions.
A Quick Break
at Tha Kirin
We stopped here for a quick break, taking the opportunity to rest and use the facilities. Tha Kirin, with its old-fashioned charm, is a good starting point to catch the train for a short trip. If you're looking for a brief ride, this is a great place to board the train for a 20-minute journey across the Wang Pho Viaduct Bridge.
The station itself has a lot of character and is well maintained. While there isn’t much around the station except for a small cafe/restaurant across the parking lot, it’s a quaint and convenient spot. It costs THB 100 for foreigners and THB 3 for Thais to ride the train to Wang Pho.
Timing Our Visit
We arrive at Tha Kirin Station 30 minutes before the train is scheduled to arrive. This timing is crucial, allowing us to witness the train cross the viaduct before continuing our journey to our next destination.
Train Schedule at Tha Kirin
We also took note of the current train schedules, essential for planning our journey:
Train 257 (Ordinary): Thon Buri - Nam Tok, departs at 11:22
Train 258 (Ordinary): Nam Tok - Thon Buri, departs at 13:45
Train 486 (Local): Nam Tok - Chumphon Nong Pla Duk, departs at 16:21
Train 259 (Ordinary): Thon Buri - Nam Tok, departs at 17:27
Train 260 (Ordinary): Nam Tok - Thon Buri, departs at 06:05
Train 485 (Local): Chumphon Nong Pla Duk, schedule pending
Preparing for the Train's Arrival
After our brief stop at Tha Kirin, we are ready to head to our next stop to witness the train cross the viaduct. This moment promises to be both breathtaking and deeply moving, offering us a vivid connection to the past.
Witnessing History
in Motion
Join us as we continue our journey, guided by the expertise and passion of Andrew Snow, our legendary researcher and historian. Stay tuned for more as we explore the Wang Pho Viaduct and uncover the stories of this remarkable railway.
How You Can Help
Donations and Sponsorships: We are seeking corporate sponsorships and donations to fund ongoing restoration projects and educational programs. Your support can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and impact of the museum.
Volunteer Opportunities: If you have expertise or time to offer, consider volunteering with us. There are many ways to get involved, from artifact restoration to educational outreach.
Spreading the Word: Share this blog and our mission with your network. The more people who know about the JEATH War Museum and its significance, the greater the impact we can achieve together.
The St Andrews Research Team is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Thai-Burma Railway and the memories of those who suffered. We need your support to continue our work. There are several ways you can help:
Join the Cause!
If you or someone you know is interested in supporting this cause, please get in touch.
This is a chance to be part of something truly meaningful and impactful.
Together, We Can Make a Difference!
This is a veteran-run project, and we need your help to make it happen. Stand with us in honoring the legacy of the POWs and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.