

Cross River Kwai
Relax on the river
X. River Kwai sits on a gentle curve of this famous river. It’s a head-turning place — its distinct and contemporary architectural design sees to that. Steel and glass juxtapose the green serenity of its surroundings (Kanchanaburi is a land of mountains, rice paddies, and sugar plantations) yet the design cleverly champions the scenery at every opportunity. Everything is orientated to maximise guests' exposure to the river. Sofas and beds face outwards for prime views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftops of the floating cabins are maximised, creating fabulous terraces for sundowners with huge, cushioned daybeds. And some cabins have private access to their own two-seater kayak so you can paddle out when you simply can’t resist the draw of the water for a moment longer.
Cross River Kwai sits on a gentle curve of this famous river. It’s a head-turning place — its distinct and contemporary architectural design sees to that. Steel and glass juxtapose the green serenity of its surroundings (Kanchanaburi is a land of mountains, rice paddies, and sugar plantations) yet the design cleverly champions the scenery at every opportunity. Everything is orientated to maximise guests' exposure to the river. Sofas and beds face outwards for prime views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftops of the floating cabins are maximised, creating fabulous terraces for sundowners with huge, cushioned daybeds. And some cabins have private access to their own two-seater kayak so you can paddle out when you simply can’t resist the draw of the water for a moment longer.
Taking full advantage of its riverside position, X. River Kwai is a tempting collection of unusual and design-led accommodation.
Relax on the river
Why our experts like it
We've done the exploring, asked the locals, made the mistakes, and found the gems... so you don't have to start from scratch! These are the bits we think you'll love the most. Think of it as travel advice from a friend who just got back and can't wait to tell you everything.

If you love French cuisine, look no further than La Belle Vie

An incredible way to kick off your Maldives holiday
“There's something pretty special about travelling by seaplane. The view from the sky is extraordinary - tiny specs of island and shades of blue that barely look real.”


The iconic, mile-long sandbank
Perfect for isolated sunbathing, dramatic photoshoots, and watching breathtaking Maldivian sunsets.

Snorkelling and diving isn't the only way to catch sight of the underwater world
“If snorkelling and diving isn't for you, it's possible to catch a glimpse of the reef from a glass-bottomed boat instead.”


Kids club at Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Supervised activities through the day, so younger guests get their own adventure while you get a quiet hour by the water.
Relax on the river
There is more than one way to do this trip
This Maldives hotel is perfect on its own, but add Sri Lanka, Dubai or the Seychelles and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
Rooms available at Cross River Kwai
Rooms and suites
Every room type we can book, with what is included in each.

Luxe Cabin
These generously proportioned cabins (which have the appearance of luxuriously reimagined steel shipping containers), celebrate their riverfront position with a bed and sofa orientated to make the most of the scenery outside. A large, cantilevered balcony gives you a front-row seat to life on the river. The ample-sized bathrooms are designed around an impressive dual vanity unit which hides a deep soaking tub, separate from a rainforest shower. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 65m²

PoolXide Cabin
For direct access to the hotel’s shared infinity pool, opt for a ground floor Poolxide Cabin Suite. It features two sun loungers on a wooden deck and a decadent bathroom finished with a monochrome palette of tactile natural materials. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 63m²

XFloat Cabin
Set over the water, these floating rooms put you right amid the riverscape. A balcony wrapped in glass balustrade gives you uninterrupted views across the water to the green hills on the other side, or you can make your way up to your private rooftop, where an oversized day lounger provides a scenic spot to relax. As these rooms are floating on the river, you will feel some water movement. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 65m²

XFloat Luxe Cabin
For your very own two-seater kayak and an overwater mesh nest bed, opt for the Luxe version of the Xfloat Cabin. As these rooms are floating on the river, you will feel some water movement. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 70m²

Fallingwater Pool Villa (One Bedroom)
Your private villa features a downstairs kitchenette and living area, opening to a riverfront deck and private infinity pool. Upstairs, there’s a spacious bedroom and bathroom. Make a morning extra special with a floating breakfast served adrift on the surface of your private pool. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 315m²

Fallingwater Pool Villa (Two Bedroom)
A two-bedroom version of the two-storey villa with enough space to accommodate up to five guests. Order a floating breakfast that’s only available to guests staying in Fallingwater Villas. • air-conditioning • coffee machine • minibar* • speaker • television • 340m²
Food & drink
A single, all-day restaurant serves breakfast with bubbles at any hour, alongside an extensive menu of local and international dishes. It’s a space that evolves through the day, creating a different ambience when you return at different moments. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a breakfast inside surrounded by the cool steel and glass, then an al fresco dinner on a terrace lit by twinkling lights on the terrace, before choosing a cabana for a nightcap.
Guests staying in the Fallingwater Pool Villas can start their day in style with a floating breakfast served in their pool.
The Bridge Bar & Bistro — Set out like a living room that invites you to linger over delicious meals, the Bridge Bar & Bistro is a double-height space flooded with light. Round the Clock Bubbly Breakfast — It’s always breakfast time at Cross River Kwai! Order western, Thai, or Chinese breakfast specialities all day, with a glass of bubbles (you’re on holiday, after all). Afternoon Tea — Not your quintessential English afternoon tea but rather a Thai take on the ritual with waffles and toast.



Relax on the river
Things to do nearby
Curated experiences to help you do more, see more, or simply switch off while you're here.

Sightseeing transfer - Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin
Good to know * Entrance fees, drinks and meals are not included * Sightseeing is unescorted and your driver will remain with the vehicle for up to 2 hours whilst you explore * Sightseeing pick up and drop off will be at the same location * Supplements apply for more than one stop or for hotels outside of the Kanchanaburi city area * If visiting Rom Hub Market, check train times in advance
A match made in paradise
This hotel is perfect on its own, but add a second destination and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
Tailor-made
We book this hotel the way you want it
Room type, board basis, transfers and the length of your stay are all yours to choose. Tell us what you have in mind.
What’s in the area
In the area
Where the hotel sits, and what is within reach of it.

Relax on the river
Trip ideas
You've come this far - and the world has more to offer. Why not pair Niva Kuramathi with another island, add a stopover in Dubai on the way for city lights and desert skies, or extend to Sri Lanka for tea, temples and safari? Below you'll find our recommendations for maximising your time away...








When to visit
When to visit
Temperature and rainfall through the year.
| Measurement | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temp | 28°C | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C |
| Average rainfall | 110mm | 60mm | 75mm | 125mm | 220mm | 175mm | 150mm | 175mm | 200mm | 195mm | 210mm | 215mm |
| Average price | £4,746pp | £4,992pp | £4,149pp | £4,222pp | £4,827pp | £4,835pp | £5,104pp | £5,176pp | £5,176pp | £5,129pp | £3,958pp | £3,958pp |
Relax on the river
Current offers
Savings worth having on the departures we think are worth taking. Every offer below applies to this hotel — check each one for the dates and conditions that come with it.

Save up to £300pp
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 25% when you book by 6th July
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 35% + complimentary meal upgrade
Based on 20th July 2026 departure

Free half-board upgrade
Based on selected departures in October 2026

Stay 7 nights, pay for 6
Based on selected departures in November 2026

Save up to £200pp on honeymoons
Based on selected departures in January 2027

Complimentary spa treatment for two
Based on stays of 7 nights or more

Free kids' places
Based on selected departures in August 2026
Build your holiday
Choose your dates, your room and where you fly from. Prices update as you go.
Your holiday so far
Flying from
Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Your Personal Travel Expert confirms the final price.
May 2026
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June 2026
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Great offers on Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Escape to Niva Kuramathi and enjoy exclusive savings on your Maldives getaway.
View offersHave you considered a multi-centre?
Maldives pairs really well with other destinations, from Dubai to Sri Lanka.
View multi-centresGood to know
- Includes flights, baggage, and private transfers to and from your hotel
- Total flight time ~ 7 hrs
- Total transfer time ~ 2 hrs
- Overnight in Malé may apply (subject to flights & transfers)
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
British passport holders are issued a free 30-day visitor visa on arrival. You'll need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a confirmed onward ticket and proof of your accommodation booking.
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
November to April is the dry season, with the most reliable sunshine and calmest seas. May to October brings shorter rain showers, lower prices and better surf.
What currency is used in the Maldives, and do I need cash?
The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, but resorts price and bill in US dollars and take major cards. Most guests never need cash — a small amount is handy for tipping.
Is the Maldives good for honeymoons outside peak season?
Yes. Off-peak brings noticeably lower rates and quieter islands, and rain tends to come in short bursts rather than all day. Many resorts add honeymoon extras during these months.
What activities are there for older kids and teens in the Maldives?
Most resorts run watersports centres with windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding, plus PADI dive courses from around age ten. Snorkelling safaris, sandbank trips and night fishing all suit older children.
Niva Kuramathi Maldives reviews
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