KRABI TRAVEL-THAILAND
GENERAL-Krabi offer its visitors a wide array of leisure activities for the whole family. Island hopping, snorkelling, rock climbing, sea kayaking, jungle trekking and scuba diving, are among the most popular occupations that can be enjoyed while on holiday in Krabi. Krabi offers superb natural surroundings that feature lush vegetation, limestone rock, and warm tropical climate. The most prominent destinations are Ao Nang, Railay, Phi Phi Islands and Koh Lanta.
Krabi Province is the perfect holiday destination for those looking for a relaxing area in southern Thailand. Krabi Province is the third most popular holiday destination in southern Thailand after Phuket and Koh Samui. Covering an area of over 4,500 Km2, the province of Krabi is less developed and crowded than Phuket, more laid back than Koh Samui, and just 1Hr 20Mts by air from Bangkok and 1Hr 45Mts from Singapore.
BEST TIME TO VISIT- The best time of year to go is between November and April to avoid any unpredictable weather.
THAI LANGUAGE-For example, “Hello” is “Sawa dee” and “Thank you” is “Khob khun krab” (for males) or “Khob khun ka” (for females). Sorry = Khot hort. How are you? = Sbaaidii mai? I'm fine = Sabaaidii .
KRABI TOWN -It is very popular but not as developed as it should have been. Despite its growing popularity it is a rather undeveloped region that still retains a rich natural environment. It's very local. With the arrival of tourism, the Krabi Town does not developed for foreigners, as the main commercial and transit point of the province. The town inhabited by roughly 25,000 people, the slow pace of daily life under the tropics, as well as reasonable development of modern infrastructure. Located at the mouth of the Krabi River. The river is a hub of activity with fishing boats and river taxis ferrying both locals and visitors to spots near. It is located around 20km from Ao Nang and 9km from the airport, on the mouth of the river.
TRANSPORT FROM AIRPORT TO TOWN- From the airport, taxis can be booked from booths in the arrival hall and rates are fixed. It will cost THB 300 (SGD 12) to get to Krabi Town and THB 500 (SGD 20) to Ao Nang. There are also shuttle buses running 5 times daily connecting Krabi Airport to these two destinations, priced at THB 90 (SGD 3.50) to Krabi Town and THB 150 (SGD 6) to Ao Nang.
LOCAL TRANSPORT IN TOWN- Travellers can ride on the shared taxi known as “songthaew” to get around Krabi. From Krabi town, songthaews depart on Maharat Road in front of the 7-Eleven, passes through Ao Nang and then to Nopparat Thara before looping back. The journey from Ao Nang to town costs 50 baht (SGD2) one way and takes around 40 minutes. In comparison, a taxi or tuk-tuk for the same journey will cost 500 baht (20SGD) one way [1200 baht{48SGD} return with waiting time] and take 15-20 minutes.
KRABI FERRY PIER -Speedboat & Ferry travel to and from Krabi Town is a nice experience. Klong Jilad ferry terminal is located about five minutes taxi ride from the famous Thara Park and river walkway. Beautifully maintained by the local provincial Government, you will find the boarding process easy enough, leaving you to enjoy the journey. On the speedboat & ferry, you'll have some different seating options - on deck or down inside in the comfy seats, just bring a book, some binoculars and your travel journal, because you're about to embark on an epic voyage to amazing places.
https://www.phuketferry.com
FERRY TO NEAR BY ISLANDS-There are several small piers in town itself, along the riverside. Here you will find longtail boat services to Railay and the islands, as well as to the villages across the water at Koh Klang and Klong Prasong. You can also take a tour of the backwaters and the Kanab Nam caves from here.
MASSAGE- There are shops offering massage and beauty treatments in Krabi. Along the streets of Ao Nang and Krabi town, there are plenty of small massage shops offering standard Thai massage priced at THB 200 (SGD 8) for an hour.
ROCK CLIMBING IN KRABI-The monumental limestone rocks in Krabi attract climbers from all over the world to scale their heights – and they come in particular to Railay and Ton Sai. A 3-day course will give most people the confidence to lead a beginners’ route and perhaps even attempt multi-pitch climbing if progress is fast. No special skills are required, other than the will to climb, so it’s an activity that is suitable for all ages, including young children. All the climbing schools in Krabi offer broadly similar programmes (1/2 day taster, one day and three day courses), that include small group instruction (maximum 4 students per guide), insurance, all equipment and refreshments, at similar prices (1000-1800-6000 baht). You can book directly at the school in Railay or Ton Sai, or through any agent.
KRABI TOWN ATTRACTIONS-
Krabi Province is the perfect holiday destination for those looking for a relaxing area in southern Thailand. Krabi Province is the third most popular holiday destination in southern Thailand after Phuket and Koh Samui. Covering an area of over 4,500 Km2, the province of Krabi is less developed and crowded than Phuket, more laid back than Koh Samui, and just 1Hr 20Mts by air from Bangkok and 1Hr 45Mts from Singapore.
BEST TIME TO VISIT- The best time of year to go is between November and April to avoid any unpredictable weather.
THAI LANGUAGE-For example, “Hello” is “Sawa dee” and “Thank you” is “Khob khun krab” (for males) or “Khob khun ka” (for females). Sorry = Khot hort. How are you? = Sbaaidii mai? I'm fine = Sabaaidii .
KRABI TOWN -It is very popular but not as developed as it should have been. Despite its growing popularity it is a rather undeveloped region that still retains a rich natural environment. It's very local. With the arrival of tourism, the Krabi Town does not developed for foreigners, as the main commercial and transit point of the province. The town inhabited by roughly 25,000 people, the slow pace of daily life under the tropics, as well as reasonable development of modern infrastructure. Located at the mouth of the Krabi River. The river is a hub of activity with fishing boats and river taxis ferrying both locals and visitors to spots near. It is located around 20km from Ao Nang and 9km from the airport, on the mouth of the river.
TRANSPORT FROM AIRPORT TO TOWN- From the airport, taxis can be booked from booths in the arrival hall and rates are fixed. It will cost THB 300 (SGD 12) to get to Krabi Town and THB 500 (SGD 20) to Ao Nang. There are also shuttle buses running 5 times daily connecting Krabi Airport to these two destinations, priced at THB 90 (SGD 3.50) to Krabi Town and THB 150 (SGD 6) to Ao Nang.
LOCAL TRANSPORT IN TOWN- Travellers can ride on the shared taxi known as “songthaew” to get around Krabi. From Krabi town, songthaews depart on Maharat Road in front of the 7-Eleven, passes through Ao Nang and then to Nopparat Thara before looping back. The journey from Ao Nang to town costs 50 baht (SGD2) one way and takes around 40 minutes. In comparison, a taxi or tuk-tuk for the same journey will cost 500 baht (20SGD) one way [1200 baht{48SGD} return with waiting time] and take 15-20 minutes.
KRABI FERRY PIER -Speedboat & Ferry travel to and from Krabi Town is a nice experience. Klong Jilad ferry terminal is located about five minutes taxi ride from the famous Thara Park and river walkway. Beautifully maintained by the local provincial Government, you will find the boarding process easy enough, leaving you to enjoy the journey. On the speedboat & ferry, you'll have some different seating options - on deck or down inside in the comfy seats, just bring a book, some binoculars and your travel journal, because you're about to embark on an epic voyage to amazing places.
https://www.phuketferry.com
FERRY TO NEAR BY ISLANDS-There are several small piers in town itself, along the riverside. Here you will find longtail boat services to Railay and the islands, as well as to the villages across the water at Koh Klang and Klong Prasong. You can also take a tour of the backwaters and the Kanab Nam caves from here.
- Chao Fah Pier- From the town’s Chao Fah Pier regular passenger boats and speedboats connect to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Jum and longtail-boats are available to bring travellers to nearby beaches or to explore smaller islands in the area. Longtail service to Koh Klang; you can also charter boats here to visit Khao Kanab Nam and the Krabi backwaters, or to travel to Railay East beach.
- Pier for Railay Beach -It is near to Chao Fah Pier. This is the main point for boats to Railay, though any of the other spots in the same area will be able to offer the same service.
- Thara Pier- For longtail boats to Koh Klang / Klong Prasong.
- Khong Kha Pier- The in-town pier sometimes has smaller ferries to Phi Phi; you can also charter boats here to visit Khao Kanab Nam and the Krabi backwaters, or to travel to Railay East beach.
MASSAGE- There are shops offering massage and beauty treatments in Krabi. Along the streets of Ao Nang and Krabi town, there are plenty of small massage shops offering standard Thai massage priced at THB 200 (SGD 8) for an hour.
ROCK CLIMBING IN KRABI-The monumental limestone rocks in Krabi attract climbers from all over the world to scale their heights – and they come in particular to Railay and Ton Sai. A 3-day course will give most people the confidence to lead a beginners’ route and perhaps even attempt multi-pitch climbing if progress is fast. No special skills are required, other than the will to climb, so it’s an activity that is suitable for all ages, including young children. All the climbing schools in Krabi offer broadly similar programmes (1/2 day taster, one day and three day courses), that include small group instruction (maximum 4 students per guide), insurance, all equipment and refreshments, at similar prices (1000-1800-6000 baht). You can book directly at the school in Railay or Ton Sai, or through any agent.
KRABI TOWN ATTRACTIONS-
001- TIGER CAVE TEMPLE OR WAT THAM SUA- Wat Tham Seua is known as a centre for meditation. Its spectacular setting in the Ao Luk Thanu mountain ranges provides the necessary quiet atmosphere for meditation. Located close to Krabi town this is one of Thailand’s finest natural wonders and definitely worth a visit. The temple here is a warren of natural caves formed within a lush jungle and home to monks who worship and live in this beautiful environment. There are interesting icons and relics in the main temple cave but the real attraction here is the ‘footprint of the Buddha’. To get to this historic site you need to hike 1,272 steps up a limestone tower. On the top, see the panoramic 360 degree views of the amazing Andaman Sea, tropical islands, dramatic limestone cliff formations, verdant rainforests and ‘the Buddha’s footprint’. You should allow up to one hour to make the climb, enjoying the rest stops and vantage points on the way up.
The main vihara or the sanctum sanctorum is inside a small shallow limestone cave.
Legend- That a tiger once made the main cave his home. There are still tiger footprints on the floor of the lower temple.
Location - Tiger cave temple is located about three kilometres south of Krabi town, off the road to Koh Lanta and Trang.
The main vihara or the sanctum sanctorum is inside a small shallow limestone cave.
Legend- That a tiger once made the main cave his home. There are still tiger footprints on the floor of the lower temple.
Location - Tiger cave temple is located about three kilometres south of Krabi town, off the road to Koh Lanta and Trang.
002- KHAO KHANAB NAM- Standing at 100 metres tall the stunning Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are one of Krabi’s most famous landmarks. These majestic natural wonders act as the gateway to Krabi city with the river running between the two limestone cliffs. You can also climb one of the two mountains. Visiting Khao Khanab Nam is certainly worth a trip to discover the inside of these prominent mountains and in addition, it can be easily combined with a visit to a nearby mangrove forest and a traditional Thai fishing village. It’s also worth stopping by the Ko Klang fishing village as part of the trip, where you’ll discover a museum and a local craft centre. Villagers will demonstrate cotton weaving, the making of local tools and utensils and fish breeding, it’s also possible to buy souvenirs and gifts direct from the local folk.
Khao Khanab Nam hosts caves with beautiful cluster formations of stalagmites and stalactites created over thousands of years, alongside prehistoric paintings. This landmark can be visited by long-tail boat starting from Chao Fah Park/Pier.
How to get there - Khao Khanab Nam is reached by chartering a long-tail boat from Krabi’s Chao Fa Pier which takes around 15 minutes. Try and include a trip to visit a local mangrove forest and taking a look at Koh Klang fishing village as part of your trip. Boat rental should be around 300 baht per trip including the fishing village and mangrove forest, and there is no admission charge for Khao Kanab Nam
Khao Khanab Nam hosts caves with beautiful cluster formations of stalagmites and stalactites created over thousands of years, alongside prehistoric paintings. This landmark can be visited by long-tail boat starting from Chao Fah Park/Pier.
How to get there - Khao Khanab Nam is reached by chartering a long-tail boat from Krabi’s Chao Fa Pier which takes around 15 minutes. Try and include a trip to visit a local mangrove forest and taking a look at Koh Klang fishing village as part of your trip. Boat rental should be around 300 baht per trip including the fishing village and mangrove forest, and there is no admission charge for Khao Kanab Nam
003- KRABI EMERALD POND- Emerald Pond (aka Crystal Lagoon) in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. The nature trek is a superb place to spot rare animals and plant species including the Pitta Gurney bird, which was once considered extinct. A 2.7 kilometres nature trail provides a superb vantage point, plus there’s a waterfall to explore, although the major attraction is the emerald pool also known as the crystal pool. The emerald waters are wonderfully warm and crystal clear making them great for swimming in, there is even a small ladder to help you get in and out. The journey to the emerald pool begins at the wildlife sanctuary office and takes around 800 metres through a well-trodden forest path or alternatively you can follow the longer nature trail which winds through spectacular tropical rain forest - one of the few remaining in Southern Thailand.
Location- Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is situated in the Khao Pra-Bang Khram area which is located next to the Bang Teao Village, about one hours drive from Ao Nang.
Forest Admission Fees - 200 baht for adults.
Location- Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is situated in the Khao Pra-Bang Khram area which is located next to the Bang Teao Village, about one hours drive from Ao Nang.
Forest Admission Fees - 200 baht for adults.
004- KRABI HOT SPRING- Located about 70 kilometres from Krabi town, the hot springs are in the heart of a small jungle preserve and close to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. Krabi Hot Springs are ‘hot tubs’ crafted into smooth rock. The thermal springs located in volcanic chambers. The waters average 35-40 degree Celsius.
Price- Entrance is charged at 90 baht for the springs or you can pay 200 baht and access the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve and Crystal/Emerald Pool.
How to get there- To get to Klong Thom Hot Springs you can choose to book a tour, or hire a taxi to take you there direct. Car rental is also an option with the drive taking around 40 minutes.
Price- Entrance is charged at 90 baht for the springs or you can pay 200 baht and access the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve and Crystal/Emerald Pool.
How to get there- To get to Klong Thom Hot Springs you can choose to book a tour, or hire a taxi to take you there direct. Car rental is also an option with the drive taking around 40 minutes.
005- KRABI RIVERSIDE AND THARA PARK- Krabi Riverside walk is a large manmade footpath starting at Chao Fah Park – where the Chao Fah Night Market is held every evening – and finishing at the southern end of Thara Park and sports complex. The promenade is best visited at the end of afternoon when the temperatures cool down. The River walk is approximately 1.6km long; the first two-thirds of the walk is a concrete footpath going through small garden nicely landscaped. The last one third part starts at Thara Park and is sheltered by tall tropical almond trees. The area also hosts the Krabi River Marina and a few local seafood restaurants.
i- Krabi River- The Krabi River – ‘Maenam Krabi’ in Thai – originates at Phanom Mountain about 30km north of Krabi Town.
ii-Krabi River Marina- Near Thara Park and its sports complex, there is a small contemporary style marina.
i- Krabi River- The Krabi River – ‘Maenam Krabi’ in Thai – originates at Phanom Mountain about 30km north of Krabi Town.
ii-Krabi River Marina- Near Thara Park and its sports complex, there is a small contemporary style marina.
006- WAT KAEW KORAWARAM- Wat Kaew Korawaram is a large Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking Krabi downtown. Its origins date back to 1887. A majestic staircase lined by golden Naga sculptures leads up to the 2,500sqm terrace on which the temple stands. Featuring different colours - white walls and dark blue tiled-roof - than standard Thai Buddhist temples (usually coloured in red and gold). Wat Kaew Korawaram’s ordination room features splendid wall paintings, a large Buddha statue, and some precious Buddha relics.
Location-opposite Soi 6 off Maharaj Road in Krabi downtown.
Location-opposite Soi 6 off Maharaj Road in Krabi downtown.
007- KRABI KART SPEEDWAY- Krabi Kart Speedway and Krabi Paintball Park are two exciting activities to spice up your holiday in Krabi. Located on the road to Ao Nang approximately seven kilometres from downtown Krabi. A two-storey open-sided building hosts a bar and a terrace overlooking the track so people who do not want to drive can still have fun watching the racing.
Location- right next to Wat Sai Thai on Krabi 4034 Road, between Krabi Town and Ao Nang.
Location- right next to Wat Sai Thai on Krabi 4034 Road, between Krabi Town and Ao Nang.
008- KRABI NIGHT MARKET/WALKING STREET- Krabi Town Walking Street (Thanon Khon Dern in Thai) is certainly the most important shopping event in Krabi Town. It is held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 17:00 to 22:00 in Soi Maharaj 8 and on the 2,000sqm plaza situated right behind Vogue Department Store in downtown Krabi.
Location:- Location: Soi Maharaj 8, behind Vogue Department Store.
Location:- Location: Soi Maharaj 8, behind Vogue Department Store.
009-THE RIVER KRABI AND SCULPTURE- The promenade along the river Krabi is one of the best places for an evening stroll in the city. On the waterfront is some interesting sculptures, including the famous metal sculpture of a crab fountain. In the evening, not yet dark, on the shore appear Amateur fishermen with fishing rods, which are interesting to watch.
AO NANG BEACH – KRABI
AO NANG-It is a the prime resort town in Krabi and Ao is a definitely a holiday resort in the truest sense in that all businesses are there to cater exclusively for the tourist trade, almost everything is located either along the beach . Ao Nang is Krabi's vibrant tourist centre. It has the relaxed atmosphere of a small town, the beauty of a beach resort. The huge and rapid development of Ao Nang over recent years has developed into a beautiful beach and centre of tourism destination and with most developed services and hotels on offer. Most people who come to Krabi stay here as it offers the widest range of accommodation and is ideally placed to explore the rest of the region. Most of the activity is concentrated on and near the main road, which forms a U-shape, along the beachfront. You’ll find countless souvenir and cheap clothing shops, tour agents, banks and ATM machines, along this stretch and its side streets, as well as restaurants with a wide selection of international cuisine and seafood, bars, massage and beauty salons and, of course, a huge range of hotels. It houses a great choice of local and international dining opportunities, plenty of shops and convenience stores, a wide range of bars at which you can party or relax until late. Railay West and Ton Sai are only 10 minutes away. Ao Nang’s location gives easy access to a wide range of gorgeous islands off the Krabi coastline: Koh Poda, Koh Tup and Koh Hong can be reached in no time, and offer perfect tropical getaways for day trips.
Transport- Ao Nang is located around 20km from Krabi Town and 25km from the nearest airport, Krabi International (KBV). A taxi to / from Krabi airport will take approximately 30 minutes and cost 600 baht for a car (max 4 persons) or 1000 baht for a private minibus. There is also a (slower) airport bus service, which is charged at 150 baht per person one way. There are now several kiosks just outside the baggage claim/customs area that sells tickets for shared van transportation to Ao Nang. The shared van cost is Bhat 150 per person. The many tourist information / tour services booths in Ao Nang will also sell the return van transportation tickets for BHT150pp.
Local Transport- To get around Ao Nang, there are scooters with an attached sidecar known as “tuk tuks” available that charges a fee of about THB 30 (SGD 1.20) to any destination in town, and more for further distances.
Nopparat Thara Pier- There are direct passenger ferry connections to Ao Nang from the islands of Phi Phi, Lanta, Phuket and Koh Yao Noi / Yai (Lanta during November to April only). Longtail taxi boats run from here to Railay and Ton Sai, up to around 11pm. Longtail boats can also be chartered year round from the beach for island-hopping excursions.
Noppharat Thara Beach - The main beach of Nopparat Thara is located around 20km from Krabi Town and 25km from the airport. It is about 2 minutes’ drive from Ao Nang. The main beach area along Noppharat Thara is more pleasant and open than Ao Nang, with benches, pavilions and off-road walkways along its length.The beach is split into two halves by a river and the local ferry pier. The beach is known locally as Klong Haeng, the name of the river that divides it. There is also Klong Haeng the name of the village closest to the main beach, some 700m away.
Transport- Ao Nang is located around 20km from Krabi Town and 25km from the nearest airport, Krabi International (KBV). A taxi to / from Krabi airport will take approximately 30 minutes and cost 600 baht for a car (max 4 persons) or 1000 baht for a private minibus. There is also a (slower) airport bus service, which is charged at 150 baht per person one way. There are now several kiosks just outside the baggage claim/customs area that sells tickets for shared van transportation to Ao Nang. The shared van cost is Bhat 150 per person. The many tourist information / tour services booths in Ao Nang will also sell the return van transportation tickets for BHT150pp.
Local Transport- To get around Ao Nang, there are scooters with an attached sidecar known as “tuk tuks” available that charges a fee of about THB 30 (SGD 1.20) to any destination in town, and more for further distances.
Nopparat Thara Pier- There are direct passenger ferry connections to Ao Nang from the islands of Phi Phi, Lanta, Phuket and Koh Yao Noi / Yai (Lanta during November to April only). Longtail taxi boats run from here to Railay and Ton Sai, up to around 11pm. Longtail boats can also be chartered year round from the beach for island-hopping excursions.
Noppharat Thara Beach - The main beach of Nopparat Thara is located around 20km from Krabi Town and 25km from the airport. It is about 2 minutes’ drive from Ao Nang. The main beach area along Noppharat Thara is more pleasant and open than Ao Nang, with benches, pavilions and off-road walkways along its length.The beach is split into two halves by a river and the local ferry pier. The beach is known locally as Klong Haeng, the name of the river that divides it. There is also Klong Haeng the name of the village closest to the main beach, some 700m away.
RAILAY BEACH– KRABI
REILY BEACH-The Railay peninsula is located on the coast between Krabi Town and Ao Nang. Although it is part of the mainland, it is only accessible by boat because of the high mountains that surround it. The three of its sides are surrounded by the sea and a range of spectacular limestone cliffs that cuts it off from all roads backs it, it has the feel of a real island. Almost every square metre of habitable land has been developed and hotels are cheap. As Railay is so small – crossing from one side to the other takes less than 10 minutes.
The main attraction of Railay is that the two principal beaches are, without a doubt, the most stunning strips of sand on the Krabi coastline. Long, gently curved, with white powder sand sloping down to emerald green water and framed by coconut palms against a backdrop of towering, craggy rocks.
Apart from sunbathing and swimming, the main activity on Railay is rock-climbing, which attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. An abundance of climbing schools also exist to teach beginners. Although this is still considered the best place to climb, many serious climbers on a budget have moved to the next-door Ton Sai beach, which offers cheap accommodation.
At lunchtime, long-tail boats customized as floating kitchens beach along the shore to serve a great choice of local and international dishes as well as fresh drinks to hungry beachgoers.
West Railay (known as Sunset Beach) - This is where you will find most of the big resorts. The beach is beautiful, but can get a bit noisy in the day, as it is also the arrival and departure point for Longtail boats from Ao Nang. Evenings are blissfully quiet.
The main attraction of Railay is that the two principal beaches are, without a doubt, the most stunning strips of sand on the Krabi coastline. Long, gently curved, with white powder sand sloping down to emerald green water and framed by coconut palms against a backdrop of towering, craggy rocks.
Apart from sunbathing and swimming, the main activity on Railay is rock-climbing, which attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. An abundance of climbing schools also exist to teach beginners. Although this is still considered the best place to climb, many serious climbers on a budget have moved to the next-door Ton Sai beach, which offers cheap accommodation.
At lunchtime, long-tail boats customized as floating kitchens beach along the shore to serve a great choice of local and international dishes as well as fresh drinks to hungry beachgoers.
West Railay (known as Sunset Beach) - This is where you will find most of the big resorts. The beach is beautiful, but can get a bit noisy in the day, as it is also the arrival and departure point for Longtail boats from Ao Nang. Evenings are blissfully quiet.
East Railay (Sunrise Beach)-This has the least attractive beach. In fact, there is no actual beach as much of the water is lined with mangrove trees. It is used as ‘the back door’ of Railay, the goods delivery point for all of the hotels, as well as the pier for taxi boats to and from Krabi Town and Ao Nam Mao.
Phra Nang Cave Beach-This is on the southernmost tip of Railay and, as the best beach on the peninsula, is where most people (including day-trippers from Ao Nang and Krabi) spend their days. Ao Phra Nang has all the ingredients of a perfect beach. With 450 metres in length, and reachable in a mere 20-minute long-tail boat trip directly from Ao Nang, it is more popular and busier than Railay West during high season (Nov- April). It can get very crowded as a result, so early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit.
The beach is set against a backdrop of picturesque limestone cliffs that provide natural shade from the hot afternoon sun, and offer rock climbers one of the most stunning sites for this thrilling activity in Krabi Province.
Just offshore, are the two tiny islands Koh Rang Nok and Nai, which you can walk to at low tide along a sand bar and go snorkelling.
Princes Cave- The cave, on the east side of the Railay Bay is famous for its wonderful stalactites and stalagmites. Since ancient times, Phra Nang (Princess) Cave has been where fishermen, before going out to sea, have made offerings to the symbolic Phallus . The fishermen, who say the cave is the home of a mythical sea princess, believe their offerings will bring them success in their fishing and protect them from danger.
The Cave Temple is dedicated to an ancient fertility goddess, the cave contains a strange combination of large phallic symbols, garlands and offerings in the hope of increased potency and prosperity. A bizarre sight for some foreign visitors, local fishermen still leave offerings even though it became a local tourist attraction. A second cave - right next to the original - is also used for offerings and prayers; it contains the same kind of items as the original cave.
Getting there- Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach to Railay Beach. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 100 baht per person each way. It is then a 10-minute walk to Railay Beach East where the shrine is.
System of Longtail Boat- The key thing to understand is that each boat club issues its own tickets that can only be used on boats belonging to that club. The Ao Nang and Klong Haeng Boat Clubs issue single and return tickets to Railay. Their ticket booths are stationed at either end of Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach. If you are travelling from Ao Nang to Railay, you can buy either a single ticket there, and then a single ticket back from Railay Boat Club (which will be valid only on Railay Boat Club boats) OR you can buy a return ticket, which will be valid for travel back only on that Boat Club’s boats (Ao Nang OR Klong Haeng – the ticket will not be accepted on any other boats). To ensure you return to the same spot you started, buy a return; each boat club also uses different piers so you may end up returning to a different place. Tickets are valid for the whole day or evening they are purchased. In addition, there is no fixed schedule between Ao Nang and Railay: boats leave as soon as there are eight people on board. This can be every 10 – 15 minutes at peak times, and up to an hour or more between boats at night.
If you are travelling from Ao Nang on a day trip, it makes sense to travel to Phra Nang Cave first and return from Railay West (or vice versa) as you can then do a circuit around the whole peninsula.
Ticket- Longtail taxi boat tickets to / from all destinations mentioned above (except Krabi Town) cost 100 baht each way, fixed price, during daylight hours. Travel time is 10 – 15 minutes, once you are on the boat. A return is simply twice the price of a one-way journey (200 baht).
Phra Nang Cave Beach-This is on the southernmost tip of Railay and, as the best beach on the peninsula, is where most people (including day-trippers from Ao Nang and Krabi) spend their days. Ao Phra Nang has all the ingredients of a perfect beach. With 450 metres in length, and reachable in a mere 20-minute long-tail boat trip directly from Ao Nang, it is more popular and busier than Railay West during high season (Nov- April). It can get very crowded as a result, so early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit.
The beach is set against a backdrop of picturesque limestone cliffs that provide natural shade from the hot afternoon sun, and offer rock climbers one of the most stunning sites for this thrilling activity in Krabi Province.
Just offshore, are the two tiny islands Koh Rang Nok and Nai, which you can walk to at low tide along a sand bar and go snorkelling.
Princes Cave- The cave, on the east side of the Railay Bay is famous for its wonderful stalactites and stalagmites. Since ancient times, Phra Nang (Princess) Cave has been where fishermen, before going out to sea, have made offerings to the symbolic Phallus . The fishermen, who say the cave is the home of a mythical sea princess, believe their offerings will bring them success in their fishing and protect them from danger.
The Cave Temple is dedicated to an ancient fertility goddess, the cave contains a strange combination of large phallic symbols, garlands and offerings in the hope of increased potency and prosperity. A bizarre sight for some foreign visitors, local fishermen still leave offerings even though it became a local tourist attraction. A second cave - right next to the original - is also used for offerings and prayers; it contains the same kind of items as the original cave.
Getting there- Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach to Railay Beach. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 100 baht per person each way. It is then a 10-minute walk to Railay Beach East where the shrine is.
System of Longtail Boat- The key thing to understand is that each boat club issues its own tickets that can only be used on boats belonging to that club. The Ao Nang and Klong Haeng Boat Clubs issue single and return tickets to Railay. Their ticket booths are stationed at either end of Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach. If you are travelling from Ao Nang to Railay, you can buy either a single ticket there, and then a single ticket back from Railay Boat Club (which will be valid only on Railay Boat Club boats) OR you can buy a return ticket, which will be valid for travel back only on that Boat Club’s boats (Ao Nang OR Klong Haeng – the ticket will not be accepted on any other boats). To ensure you return to the same spot you started, buy a return; each boat club also uses different piers so you may end up returning to a different place. Tickets are valid for the whole day or evening they are purchased. In addition, there is no fixed schedule between Ao Nang and Railay: boats leave as soon as there are eight people on board. This can be every 10 – 15 minutes at peak times, and up to an hour or more between boats at night.
If you are travelling from Ao Nang on a day trip, it makes sense to travel to Phra Nang Cave first and return from Railay West (or vice versa) as you can then do a circuit around the whole peninsula.
Ticket- Longtail taxi boat tickets to / from all destinations mentioned above (except Krabi Town) cost 100 baht each way, fixed price, during daylight hours. Travel time is 10 – 15 minutes, once you are on the boat. A return is simply twice the price of a one-way journey (200 baht).
TON SAI BEACH– KRABI
TON SAI BEACH-Ton Sai beach, is in the middle of the Ao Nang and Railay Beach. Ton Sai is far more inaccessible than its neighbours are. The beach of Tonsai is not renowned to provide vacationers with great swimming or snorkelling: reefs and rocks right in front of the sand make it dangerous; at low tide, it is almost impossible to beach at Tonsai, even for long-tail boats. As Longtail, boats moor far from the shore, leaving passengers to wade to dry land, with their luggage, over slippery rocks and mud. The beach itself is stunning, a classic bay surrounded by steep cliffs, although the sand is not quite as fine as its neighbours are and, the low tide exposes a basin of rocks and silt.
The main activity on offer at Tonsai is climbing: the tall limestone cliffs surrounding the beach offer the perfect playground for experienced rock climbers (the grades of climbing difficulty vary here from 5 to 8c). There is a climbing school on site if you would like to learn this thrilling activity. Restaurants are plentiful in Tonsai, though both western and Thai food are average. Once you are on Ton Sai, the only way around is on foot.
Getting to Tonsai Beach- Longtail boats depart from Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches only and stop here first on their way to Railay – journey time is around 15 minutes. At very low tide, the service stops temporarily.
KOH PODA– KRABI
The main activity on offer at Tonsai is climbing: the tall limestone cliffs surrounding the beach offer the perfect playground for experienced rock climbers (the grades of climbing difficulty vary here from 5 to 8c). There is a climbing school on site if you would like to learn this thrilling activity. Restaurants are plentiful in Tonsai, though both western and Thai food are average. Once you are on Ton Sai, the only way around is on foot.
Getting to Tonsai Beach- Longtail boats depart from Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches only and stop here first on their way to Railay – journey time is around 15 minutes. At very low tide, the service stops temporarily.
KOH PODA– KRABI
KOH PODA-Koh Poda is one the most popular islands in Krabi archipelago. Located just six kilometres offshore from Ao Nang, it roughly takes 25 minutes to get there by long-tail boat. The price for a return ticket is about 300 baht per person; note that if you travel alone, you will have to wait for the long-tail boat to be full according to its capacity before you set off. Mu Koh Poda or Poda Island group consists of four islands: Koh Poda, Koh Kai, Koh Tap and Koh Mor. Koh Poda is the largest of the group despite its area being no more than a kilometre in diameter. Covered with palm and pine trees and almost entirely encircled by a soft white sand beach, it is every inch the stunning tropical getaway. A coral reef lies about 20 metres from the beach with a variety of sea life. The irresistible combination of excellent snorkelling, scenery and soft sand make the island a popular choice with snorkelers and sea kayakers, but surprisingly, it's not that crowded.
How to get there :- From Ao Nang, get a long-tail boat ticket at the booth located along the beach road (toward its southern end). You also could join a half or full island-hopping day trip by speedboat.
KOH TUP AND KOH MOR – KRAB
How to get there :- From Ao Nang, get a long-tail boat ticket at the booth located along the beach road (toward its southern end). You also could join a half or full island-hopping day trip by speedboat.
KOH TUP AND KOH MOR – KRAB
KOH TUP & KOH MOR ISLANDS-Koh Tup and Koh Mor are two tiny islands that belong to the Mu Koh Poda group. Located approximately nine kilometres from Ao Nang, it takes about 30 minutes to reach them by long-tail boat from the prime resort towns in Krabi Province. These two islets are linked by a sandbar which, at low tide, also enables you to walk to Koh Kai (Chicken Island), situated some 500m away. The popularity of Koh Tap and Koh Mor is due to their specific shape, as both sides of the sand bar offer great snorkelling in crystal clear waters. This sandbar is called ‘talay waek’ in Thai, which means ‘divided sea’. A short hike to Koh Tap's summit offers a cool viewpoint to the other islands around. The best way to get to these islands is to join the Krabi Four-Island tour by speedboat (or any similar excursion). Alternatively, if you just want to go there to spend the day, you could pack a lunch, and simply take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang, Railay, Klong Muang or Nopparat Thara. It will cost you about 300 baht per person to get there from Ao Nang. Note that you will have to wait for the boat to have at least eight passengers before setting off.
How to get there- Hire a long-tail boat in Ao Nang (at the booth toward the southern part of the beach) or Nopparat Thara (at the fishing pier toward the northern end of the beach) or join an island-hopping speedboat trip.
KOH KAI (Chicken Island) – KRABI
How to get there- Hire a long-tail boat in Ao Nang (at the booth toward the southern part of the beach) or Nopparat Thara (at the fishing pier toward the northern end of the beach) or join an island-hopping speedboat trip.
KOH KAI (Chicken Island) – KRABI
KOH KAI ISLAND-It is a small island belonging to the Poda group of islands located about eight kilometres from Ao Nang in the province of Krabi. Koh Kai takes its name from the chicken-shaped rock forming its southern tip. Most island-hopping tours from Krabi and Phuket make a short stop at this picturesque limestone chicken, giving visitors a cool photo opportunity.
Another peculiarity of Koh Kai is that it is linked to Koh Tap and Koh Mor by a sandbar, which is only visible at low tide, offering visitors the opportunity to walk from one island to the other, surrounded by crystal clear waters. This land bridge forms into one of Koh Kai’s two beaches, with the other situated next to the chicken-shaped rock. The waters surrounding the island hosts superb coral reefs, providing visitors with great snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. Note that apart from a small shack selling snacks and drinks, there’s no infrastructure built on Koh Kai.
How to get there- From Ao Nang, get a long-tail boat ticket at the booth located along the beach road (toward its southern end). You also could join a half- or full-day island-hopping trip by speedboat.
TOURS AT KRABI-
01-4 ISLANDS BY SPEEDBOAT by Big Tour Crabi.Com https://bigtourkrabi.com/en/thailand/ao-nang/tours/4-islands-by-speedboat/
Itinerary
Price-Regular Price =939BHT+ (Processing fee 6%) Premium Class = 1199BHT+ (Processing fee 6%)
http://www.krabi-tourism.com/krabi/krabi-4islands-tour.htm
02-EMERALD POOL + HOT SPRINGS by Big Tour Crabi.Com
https://bigtourkrabi.com/en/thailand/ao-nang/tours/emerald-pool-and-hot-springs/
Itinerary
Tour only = 475BHT+ (Processing fee 6%) Tour with Lunch = 575BHT+ (Processing fee 6%)
https://www.yourkrabi.com/where-to-stay-nopparat/
http://www.krabi-hotels.com/seedo/ao-nang.htm
http://www.krabi-info.com/
KRABI TO KOH SAMUI FERRY SERVICES -
https://www.phuketferry.com/krabi.html
The speedboat & ferryboats are large and well maintained, holding up to 400 passengers per trip. You have options on where to sit - out on the deck or inside the boat on comfortable chairs.
a- Lomprayah Ferry Service- It is definitely one of the best known and most respected of the ferry companies. For Lomprayah bus and ferry combo service, the first half of the journey is by bus or van from Lomprayah Krabi office (Thunglong Road) to Donsak Pier (also called Raja Ferry Port). The land journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending road condition. Please note that the choice of bus or van is depending on the travelling passengers on that day. At Donsak Pier, passengers are required to transfer to Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran for another 2 hours seas journey. Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran is well known for its stability in rough sea and high speed. Hence, with Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran, passengers could enjoy their journey to Koh Samui. Please note that the arrival pier at Koh Samui is Nathon Pier. These ferries are comfortable and well maintained, and feature plenty of toilets as well as a place to buy food and drinks.
b- Seatran Discovery is another reputable company that has ferries from Krabi to Koh Samui. Their high-speed ferries are also of a good standard and have comfortable seating as well as good facilities on board, so the service is comparable to Lomprayah and just takes slightly longer as the high-speed ferry is not quite as fast as the catamaran. (The ride is from Discovery Office (Maharaj Rd, Soi 11) at Krabi to Don Sak Pier at Surta Thani by bus and from there to Ko Samui by ferry)
c- A third ferry company is Songserm. Unlike the first two, Songserm operates a standard ferry that takes longer and is not as well equipped. Seating will not be quite as comfortable and there may not be facilities on-board but tickets for the Songserm ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui are usually a little cheaper.
A-Ferry & Speedboat Schedule from Krabi-Total journey is completed by bus and ferry ride.
Bus: Krabi - Tapi Pier (2hrs) Ferry: Tapi Pier - Koh Samui (Island) (1hr 55mins)
Another peculiarity of Koh Kai is that it is linked to Koh Tap and Koh Mor by a sandbar, which is only visible at low tide, offering visitors the opportunity to walk from one island to the other, surrounded by crystal clear waters. This land bridge forms into one of Koh Kai’s two beaches, with the other situated next to the chicken-shaped rock. The waters surrounding the island hosts superb coral reefs, providing visitors with great snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. Note that apart from a small shack selling snacks and drinks, there’s no infrastructure built on Koh Kai.
How to get there- From Ao Nang, get a long-tail boat ticket at the booth located along the beach road (toward its southern end). You also could join a half- or full-day island-hopping trip by speedboat.
TOURS AT KRABI-
01-4 ISLANDS BY SPEEDBOAT by Big Tour Crabi.Com https://bigtourkrabi.com/en/thailand/ao-nang/tours/4-islands-by-speedboat/
Itinerary
- Tup Island (Tale Wek) – relax, make photos and swim at the Thailand’s famous place
- Chicken Island (Koh Gai) - popular location for photos and excellent snorkeling
- Poda Island - white, sandy beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling
- Railay Phra Nang Cave and Beach – beautiful sandy beach and famous princess cave
- Hotel Transfer - Free from Ao Nang/Krabi Town
- Accident Insurance
- English Speaking Guide
- Mask, Snorkel and Life jacket
- Lunch
- Fresh fruits, Soft drinks
- Vegetarian meals available by request
Price-Regular Price =939BHT+ (Processing fee 6%) Premium Class = 1199BHT+ (Processing fee 6%)
http://www.krabi-tourism.com/krabi/krabi-4islands-tour.htm
02-EMERALD POOL + HOT SPRINGS by Big Tour Crabi.Com
https://bigtourkrabi.com/en/thailand/ao-nang/tours/emerald-pool-and-hot-springs/
Itinerary
- Hot Spring Waterfall.
- Rainforest Nature Walking Trail
- Emerald Pool
- Blue Pool
- Tiger Cave Temple / Wat Tham Suea (for tour with lunch only)
- Thai set Lunch (optional)
- Hotel Transfer - Free from Ao Nang/Krabi Town
- Accident Insurance
- English-speaking Guide
- Drinking Water
- Thai set Lunch (optional)
- Vegetarian meals available by request (for tour with lunch only)
Tour only = 475BHT+ (Processing fee 6%) Tour with Lunch = 575BHT+ (Processing fee 6%)
https://www.yourkrabi.com/where-to-stay-nopparat/
http://www.krabi-hotels.com/seedo/ao-nang.htm
http://www.krabi-info.com/
KRABI TO KOH SAMUI FERRY SERVICES -
https://www.phuketferry.com/krabi.html
The speedboat & ferryboats are large and well maintained, holding up to 400 passengers per trip. You have options on where to sit - out on the deck or inside the boat on comfortable chairs.
a- Lomprayah Ferry Service- It is definitely one of the best known and most respected of the ferry companies. For Lomprayah bus and ferry combo service, the first half of the journey is by bus or van from Lomprayah Krabi office (Thunglong Road) to Donsak Pier (also called Raja Ferry Port). The land journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending road condition. Please note that the choice of bus or van is depending on the travelling passengers on that day. At Donsak Pier, passengers are required to transfer to Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran for another 2 hours seas journey. Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran is well known for its stability in rough sea and high speed. Hence, with Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran, passengers could enjoy their journey to Koh Samui. Please note that the arrival pier at Koh Samui is Nathon Pier. These ferries are comfortable and well maintained, and feature plenty of toilets as well as a place to buy food and drinks.
b- Seatran Discovery is another reputable company that has ferries from Krabi to Koh Samui. Their high-speed ferries are also of a good standard and have comfortable seating as well as good facilities on board, so the service is comparable to Lomprayah and just takes slightly longer as the high-speed ferry is not quite as fast as the catamaran. (The ride is from Discovery Office (Maharaj Rd, Soi 11) at Krabi to Don Sak Pier at Surta Thani by bus and from there to Ko Samui by ferry)
c- A third ferry company is Songserm. Unlike the first two, Songserm operates a standard ferry that takes longer and is not as well equipped. Seating will not be quite as comfortable and there may not be facilities on-board but tickets for the Songserm ferry from Krabi to Koh Samui are usually a little cheaper.
A-Ferry & Speedboat Schedule from Krabi-Total journey is completed by bus and ferry ride.
Bus: Krabi - Tapi Pier (2hrs) Ferry: Tapi Pier - Koh Samui (Island) (1hr 55mins)
Departing Arriving Travel Time Price
Krabi-KrabiTown-Thunglong Road - (07:00) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 3:55 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(10:55)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Thunglong Road - (09:00) Koh Samui -Nathon Pier 4:15 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(13:15)
Krabi-Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (11:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 5:00 (HRS ) 12.03 (USD)
(16:30)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (11:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 5:00 (HRS ) 13.21 (USD)
(16:30)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (12:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 4:45 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(17:15)
Krabi-KrabiTown-Thunglong Road - (07:00) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 3:55 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(10:55)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Thunglong Road - (09:00) Koh Samui -Nathon Pier 4:15 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(13:15)
Krabi-Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (11:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 5:00 (HRS ) 12.03 (USD)
(16:30)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (11:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 5:00 (HRS ) 13.21 (USD)
(16:30)
Krabi- Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (12:30) Koh Samui- Nathon Pier 4:45 (HRS ) 14.63 (USD)
(17:15)
B-Ferry & Speedboat Schedule from Ko Samui –
Arriving Departing Travel Time Price
Koh Samui- Nathon Pier (8:00) Krabi-Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (12:45) 4:45 (HRS ) 12.44 (USD)
Koh Samui -Nathon Pier (8:00) Krabi-Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl - (12:30) 4:30 (HRS ) 14.29 (USD)
Koh Samui- Nathon Pier (9:00) Krabi- Krabi Town- Maharaj Rd, Soi 11(14:00) 5:00 (HRS ) 14.29 (USD)
Koh Samui- Nathon Pier (12:00) Krabi- Krabi Town- Maharaj Rd, Soi 11 - (17:00) 5:00 (HRS ) 14.29 (USD)
NOTE –
- Call to confirm (one day before)-It enables to reconfirm that you are still traveling, and we can answer any last-minute questions you may have.
- Arrive Early (at least 30 minutes) - So that you can check in, familiarise yourself with the pier, locate your boat, get a nice seat, and relax.
- Thunglong Road can be reached easily, just ask about Lomprayah’s office and the taxi driver will know exactly where to take you. On this road, you will be picked up by a bus/minivan to take you to Tapi Pier (Donsac) in around 2 hours.
- Krabi Town- Krabi Sea Pearl-
- Krabi Town- Maharaj Rd, Soi 11- The collection point will be right in front of Seatran Discover office in Krabi’s downtown.
https://www.phuketferry.com/krabi-town-collection-point.html
https://www.busonlineticket.co.th/krabi-to-koh-samui
Presented by - V P Gupta