12.03.2019.
Krabi as one of the biggest islands in Thailand is a picturesque place full of hidden surprises. Though the adjacent Koh Lanta is much more tranquil unveiling the gorgeous beaches, Krabi is a fantastic introduction to Thailand. In fact, the most beautiful beaches are hidden- like the popular Railay or Tonsai, even Centara.
In opposite to the lovely Chiang Mai, Krabi unveils the southern spirit and the mountain world of its interior.
Krabi beaches
Railay & Phranang Beach
Railay and Phranang beach (one with the cave) are easily accessible from Ao Nang, the main seaside town. This area of Krabi is a world for itself regarding the chance that you can only reach it by boat. At these two beaches scatters the entire village inside the hotel complex including shops, doctors and speciality of Railay area- rock climbing. Such an amazing tropical beach like Railay you shouldnโt miss on your journey to Thailand.
The path to Phranang beach is filled with caves, opportunity to do climbing along the rope to the Viewpoint and expectations to see monkeys. Phranang beach is much larger than Railay and thus more astonishing. When I was there, it was a wonderful surprise to see the traditional Rock climbing marriage ceremony for Valentineโs day. It was so lovely to see couples in wedding clothes climbing to the stage.
Tonsai Beach
Situated between Centara beach in Ao Nang and Railay beach, Tonsai is only reachable by boat from Ao Nang but 45 minutes climbing can be done to Railay. Tonsai is filled with relaxing beach bars and cheap street food so not that fancy like Railay but definitely worth the trip.
Centara Beach
Centara is another secluded beach which can be done by foot or by boat. Thereโs a 10 minutes climbing road that leads to this national park (you will sign the entrance) and you have to pass so called Monkey Trail (but I havenโt seen monkeys on my way). Sounds as much more welcoming choice for a day trill than Ao Nang beach.
Tiger Cave Temple
1260 steps to this temple of golden Buddha comes with the incredible view of the whole Krabi. 3 km from Krabi town, it can be reached by shuttle bus from Ao Nang (if youโre staying in Ao Nang, itโs 200 Thb) or by touristic tour (which includes Emerald Pools and Hot springs). Thereโs a legend that tiger left the paw prints in the cave and the adjacent Tiger cave prooves this story. This picturesque place should not be missed.Itโs one of the most stunning Thailand temples that you can visit.
Emerald Pools & Hot springs
Not at the same place but within the same vibe. Here you can swim in the Emerald pool and the blue one is only for watching. Set up in Thung Teao Forrest Natural Park here you can explore extremely rich biodiversity made up of unique trees, some rare animals (which are out of trails) and many bird species. Even if itโs just a pool, this place covers a special value because of the biodiversity. And hey, letโs be honest- the pools are not so ordinary holding the enticing colours. Only 60 km from Krabi town.
Hot springs are really hot waterfalls, located in the middle between Krabi town and Emerald pools.
Khao Khanam Nam Mountains
Mountains of Krabi town are its label, two giant rocks that hide also majestic caves. It can be reached by longtail boat from Chao Fa Pier in the center of Krabi.
Khao Ngon Na kor Dragonโs Crest Mountain is another amazing mountain at the island, 30 minutes from Krabi town. Itโs close to Tub Kaek Beach and offers a hanging cliff with stunning views. I know someone told me actually about experience from this mountains when I was there but I mixed up these two mountains back then.
Islands close to Krabi
There are many opportunities like visiting Koh Hong, 4 island (Chicken Island, Poda island, Taming Island and Tup Island) or James Bond Island. These are all part of National Park and require an additional entrance fee which can be included into the touristic tour. As I didnโt know for this, next time I will definitely go if I come to Krabi.
Final thoughts
Krabi has much to offer but Ao Nang as the main place on the coast doesnโt have the nicest beach if you would focus mostly where you are. I would certainly recommend Tiger cave temple as a natural wonder. Rock climbing is something fascinating that this area brings.
PIN IT FOR LATER:
[โฆ] sea brings the best of Thailand, the dreamy atmosphere in one place. Krabi island and Koh Lanta are two neighbour islands with their tiny distance so itโs a chance to visit two [โฆ]