Krabi’s Hidden Gems
Krabi is a Thai province that boasts unparalleled natural beauty. From the renowned Phi Phi islands to the picturesque Railay Beach, the stunning Hong Island, and the lovely Koh Lanta, Krabi is home to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. But Krabi’s beauty goes beyond its shorelines—the hinterland is graced with captivating karst topography that stretches for miles, offering hidden gems that few foreign visitors have discovered. Come and explore the wonders of Krabi!
Escape the beach scene: discover national parks and stunning scenery just an hour’s drive from Krabi town or Ao Nang beach – perfect for a day trip by car or moped! don’t miss out on these gorgeous sites during your visit.
Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
This is one of the more popular inland attractions in Krabi which gets a steady stream of tourists. Most come to see the cave temple, rather than meditate, but few dare to climb the 1,200 steep stairs to the top of this karst pillar to find the chedi with the best views of any Buddhist site in Thailand. Climbing to the chedi is a great way to get an aerial view of the karst landscape.
There are no tigers, but it is famous among Thais based on the personality cult of Abbot Ajarn Jamnien. The grounds are surrounded by towering rainforest dipterocarps. It’s located northwest of Krabi Town; turn off the airport road.
⛵ BEST KRABI TOURS
The journey to the top takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the summit. It’s important to bring proper non-slip shoes or sandals and a small bottle of water to stay hydrated during the ascent. Visitors must also beware of the monkeys who roam the area, always on the lookout for food and drinks to pilfer from unsuspecting tourists. They can be quite aggressive!
Nonetheless, the dazzling views from the top and a sense of achievement make the hike well worth it. Along the way, there are two bathrooms to freshen up and catch your breath. The entrance fee is by donation, making it an affordable attraction. So, if you’re in Krabi, be sure to hop on down to Wat Tham Suea and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Than Bok Khorani National Park
Is possibly one of the most delightful nature spots in the region, when it isn’t crowded with locals who like to come and bathe in the many ponds here. Sandwiched between two 50-foot cliffs, this grove consists of a series of pools that cascade into each other, with the water emerging from a mysterious-looking cave at the rear.
As a result of the limestone, the water is aqua color and the cascades are calcified so they’re not slippery. A series of pathways and boardwalks meander among the ponds, streams, and lush vegetation – certainly worth the 300 baht entrance fee, and with restaurants on hand. It’s great for kids in their swimsuits but avoids the busy weekends. Turn off to Ao Luek after a 40-minute drive on the Pha Nga/Phuket main highway.
Among the many beautiful sights to behold, the park features an amazing pond that is sure to take your breath away. Located just a short walk from the parking lot, the pond is surrounded by a tranquil and serene atmosphere that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The setting is made even more spectacular by the crystal-clear and transparent water, which allows you to see all the way to the bottom.
For those who love to relax and enjoy a good picnic, it is an ideal destination to spend your day. It is recommended that you come early in the morning to make the most of your time here and bask in the warmth of the sun while you enjoy a perfect day at the park.
Tha Pom Mangrove Boardwalk
Less seen by foreigners than Thais, who have been beating the path to this new attraction since it was featured in the Unseen Thailand travel series. A limestone spring flows through the mangrove among the hilly landscape to create two symbiotic ecosystems and an interesting crystal-clear water course.
A boardwalk takes you on a tour of a real mangrove. This site is a bit tricky to find, though signposted as you drive away from Krabi towards Phuket – just follow the directions into the dense karst hills. The entrance is 100 baht.
This beautiful boardwalk will take you about 30-50 minutes to walk through (depending on how many photos you take on the way). As you go through the area, you’ll find a swimming spot that’s perfect for a quick refreshing dip.
One of the best features of the boardwalk is that there are plenty of platforms to get a closer look at the fish in the water. It’s only 30 minutes from Ao Nang, and the 1200 meters walking distance loop offers a scenic view you’ll love. If you want to experience the beauty of this place without crowds, come before the tourists discover it!
Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
One of the main national parks in Krabi and easily reachable just north of Krabi Town and Ao Nang. It comprises 50km2 of virgin rainforest over a hilly landscape (up to 1,530m) and includes camping facilities, picnic spots, a couple of lofty waterfalls, and some nature trails. Several species of native animals and lots of birds and reptiles can be spotted if you have an eagle eye.
Phanom Bencha National Park in Krabi is an adventurer’s playground! With easy hiking and climbing options, anyone who is fit enough to climb with a rope can enjoy all this park has to offer. The park has several trail options that range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. For those who choose to tackle the longer, more challenging trails, it’s important to wear proper gripping shoes and to take plenty of water, bananas or energy bars, and insect/leeches repellent. It’s also recommended to bring a GPS as the connection in the forest can be poor. If you need a break, there are restrooms available within the park. And, after a day of exploring, make sure to refuel at the amazing on-site restaurant that serves up delicious Thai food.
The entrance is 200 baht.
Crystal Lagoon (Emerald Pool)
Part of a much-recommended tour that includes the Tiger Temple and hot springs/waterfall, this is a charming pool formed by the volcanic activity (hot springs) in the area and offers a refreshing dip in its aqua-colored waters which are surrounded by mangrove and forest vegetation. The rocks form a natural pool and it’s an ideal lunch stop when traveling around the nearby sites in the heat of the day. Turn off at Klong Thom, 30 minutes drive south of Krabi heading towards Koh Lanta.
The entrance is 100 baht.
Hot Stream Waterfall
One of many hot springs in the region, but with a difference. This particular hot water pool comes with a natural waterfall for an added difference. It’s also featured in the Unseen Thailand series so expect to find lots of Thai tourists here. Located on the same turnoff as the Crystal Lagoon.
Nestled in the lush green jungle of Krabi, the hot stream waterfall serves up an unforgettable natural experience. Imagine lounging in 40 – 45 degree hot water, surrounded by a serene forest, it’s like having your own personal “jacuzzi”. Although the stream has gained popularity over the years and can get crowded on weekends, early morning or late evening visits are highly recommended. The only cautionary note is that the rocks can be slippery, so hiking shoes are highly recommended. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to soak in the warm, natural waters of Krabi’s hot stream waterfall.
Caving
If you’re looking for an adventurous activity in Krabi Province, caving might be your thing. There are plenty of caves to explore, such as the Railay Beach Caves and Wat Thep Prattan Cave in Krabi Noi. However, if you’re not up for a serious excursion, there are also more laid-back options like the Boua Thong Cave and Wat Tum Sang Phet Caves. The latter, located at a Buddhist temple, is especially easy for both kids and adults to explore. Perfect for a stop on the way to the nearby Huay Toh Waterfall, this simple cave offers various places to enter and walk around the perimeter.
Most of the good caves are located among the really stark landscape found near Ao Luek and beyond in Pha Nga. It’s best to pick them out on a local tourist map. Even if you do get lost, it will be among some remarkable scenery. Forty minutes drive north, towards Pha Nga and Phuket, mostly free.
Traveling to Krabi? See our transportation guides and find out how to get here from popular destinations:
- Chiang Mai to Krabi
- Chumphon to Krabi
- Koh Jum to Krabi
- Koh Kradan to Krabi
- Koh Lanta to Krabi
- Phuket to Krabi
- Surat Thani to Krabi
Whatever your skill level or sense of adventure, Krabi Province has a caving option for you.
