Where to stay in a floating raft hotel for a chill New Year in Kanchanaburi

Z9 Resort is the most Instagrammable floating resort in Thailand, period. Famous for its futuristic "cocoon" shape design, it sits peacefully on the Srinakarin Dam. The vibe is incredibly quiet and private. Each room has a private deck where you can kayak right off your balcony. It’s the ultimate romantic escape to start the year in style and silence.

If you want 5-star comfort in the middle of the jungle, The FloatHouse is the choice. These massive floating villas are built from teak wood and thatched roofs, blending perfectly with nature. Inside, you get plush beds, air conditioning, and a rain shower. The huge private deck with a swing is the perfect spot to sip champagne as the river flows by on New Year's Eve.

For a truly unique "Reset" for 2026, go here. Established in 1976, this place is legendary for having No Electricity. At night, the entire resort is lit by romantic kerosene oil lamps. There is no Wi-Fi, no buzzing fridge, just the sounds of the river and the jungle. You can jump right off your deck into the river or visit the local Mon Village nearby. It is magical, romantic, and completely peaceful.

Located on the expansive Srinagarind Dam, Leaf Lake Kan offers massive modern rooms that feel more like hotel suites than rafts. The highlight here is that many rooms come with a private Jacuzzi on the balcony overlooking the vast lake. They also have a "Maldives-style" layout. It’s perfect for those who want water activities, as they offer jet skis and wet rafting for guests.

Kwai Tara offers a sleek, modern loft design that stands out from the traditional bamboo style. They have both canal-wing (on land) and floating villas. The floating rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows, so you wake up staring directly at the river. It’s located in a quieter part of the river, ensuring high privacy. They also offer free bamboo rafting activities for guests every afternoon.