The original town of Kanchanaburi was established by King Rama I as a first line of defense against the Burmese, whom he believed might use the old invasion route through the Three Pagodas Pass to attack Siam. According to most historians, the old town of Kanchanaburi was located near Ban Lat Ya, a small village situated approximately 16 kilometers north of the present town. The present provincial capital is a relatively newer town built by King Rama III in 1833. Many visitors like to come to the town to rest along the river with a cold drink and a good book. Others come for a couple days and explore the attractions in the surrounding countryside and engage in activities like white water rafting, elephant trekking and golfing.