KRABI
DESTINATION GUIDE

The Ultimate Guide Before You Plan for your Next Trip

Known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, Phuket is one of the most beautiful and popular islands of Thailand. The wide beaches of Phuket welcome plenty of tourists from around the world and these beaches offer you the perfect place to sit, enjoy, and a wild night party. You can also indulge in various kinds of water-based games like surfing, snorkeling, and jet-skiing. Apart from the beaches Phuket is also known for its natural reserves providing home for many exotic wild animals like tigers and elephants. The thick green forest covers and the turquoise blue water sets the perfect background as you will get the perfect opportunity to shop and eat from the various street stalls.

Attractions in Krabi

Dig your feet in the soft white sand and breathe the fresh jungle-air in this mesmerizing coastal planes of western Thailand.

Koh Poda

The enchanting island of Koh Poda is certainly one of the major attractions of Krabi. Hire a canoe and sail off to this limestone island covered with thick palm and mangrove forestation. Just few minutes away from the famous Ao Nang beach this island is a must-visit for all tourists of Thailand. The island is fully covered in thousands of pine and palm trees whilst the coastlines are circled by soft white sandy beaches where you can relax and enjoy. Like any other exotic destinations of Krabi this place is also surrounded by crystal clean water and it is definitely a good spot for snorkeling.

Krabi Shell Cemetery

Nai Harn Beach

The shell cemetery of Krabi is found in the Susan Hoi area of the province and it is certainly one of the rare pieces of natural history that you can ever encounter. The 200 meter stretch of fossilized shells dates back to almost 40 million years and it is something which you will get to see anywhere else in the world. The deposits of limestone over the shells, staying here millions of years ago, has frozen the time forever allowing you to witness a marvelous wonder of nature. Lovers of sea-relics and geologists often fancied this location for good reasons as the the thick mangrove forestation offers a pretty site for the tourists.

Tiger Cave

The Tiger Cave of Krabi is also known as the Wat Tham Sua and it is a location of natural wonders and ornate shrines. The place attracts a lot of Buddhist monks from around Thailand and Malaysia as the caves and the jungle make way for the most brilliant setting. The Tiger Cave in particular is amazing because there you can find tiger paw prints engraved on the walls of the cave making it very much interesting for the tourists. Apart from that the place also has a temple along with a steep limestone tower where you can see footprints of Lord Buddha.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach might not be the largest or the popular beach of Phuket but it is certainly the most beautiful destination in the entire island. The 3.5 kilometers stretch of golden sand is lined by both coconut and palm trees. It is the most cherished relaxing location for the tourists and it would not be difficult for you to find the perfect spot for sun-bathing. Over the years, this beach has attracted many couples and family as it offers the perfect sunset viewing platform for the honeymooners. The open shorelines allows you to take a dip in the water and if the water is calm enough you can also go for a long swim. The area is pitted with many good resorts and restaurants where you can grab a bite after a crazy swim session at the sea.

Emerald Pool

Evident from its name the Emerald Pool of Krabi is a pool known for its exotic color and beauty. The aquamarine color of the pools attract a lot of tourist from all over the world as the glittering natural beauty is sure to capture your imagination. You will start your trip of the wondrous Emerald Pools from the wildlife sanctuary office and take the forest path surrounded by the virgin rain forest. Once you reach your destination you are free to take a dip and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. The forest is known for its huge population of tropical plants and birds and the mind-blowing natural setting will transport you to another world.

Phi Phi Island

With its stunning beauty and spectacular location it is not a surprise that Phi Phi Island was once featured in a Hollywood movie featuring Oscar Winner Leonardo DiCaprio. Rising like a steep medieval fortress the Phi Phi Island is known for its fascinating limestone cliffs and beach-front thick dense jungle. Quite far from the madding crowd of Bangkok the Phi Phi Island gives you a kind of peace and calm that you can savor for a considerable amount of time. The surrounding water of the ocean is crystal clean thereby allowing you a great sight of the marine mammals and the sea turtles. Phi Phi Island also has many charming restaurants and resorts where you can relax and have a great time.

Railay Beach

The Railay Beach is the most popular beach in Krabi and with transparent water and beautiful stretch of powdery white sand this beach offers the most natural setting in entire Thailand. Whilst most of the Thai beach offers a vibrant party scene with lots of food shacks and live music this beach of Krabi is something completely unique. Hidden under the shades of palm trees and might limestone caves this place is bound to give you some kind of heavenly feel. It is certainly a divers' paradise as you can engage in many activities in the peaceful and tranquil waters of Railay Beach.

Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

No destination of Thailand cannot be without its thick dense natural forests and Thung Teao Forest stands out for Krabi. Fabled beauty is definitely the phrase which should be used to describe this beautiful forest as the exotic plants, animals, and birds are always a sight to treasure. This natural park is the home to many birds which you will never find anywhere else in the world. The lovely Pitta Gurney bird is a common sight in this part of the country and the tall trees makes it impossible for sunlight to enter into certain parts of the forest. There is also a dazzling waterfall at the middle of the forest as tourists can enjoy its wonderful view from up-close.

Koh Poda

Krabi Shell Cemetery

Nai Harn Beach

Tiger Cave

Karon Beach

Emerald Pool

Phi Phi Island

Railay Beach

Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

Koh Poda

Krabi Shell Cemetery

Nai Harn Beach

Tiger Cave

Karon Beach

Klong Thom Hot Springs

The natural wonders of Krabi will never stop to amaze you and this natural hot springs located near the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve is something that no tourist should miss out on. Due to its proximity to the volcanic chambers the water from the falls are warm and it offers great fun and relief for the foreign tourists who visit this magical Thai coast during winter. This thermal spring is known for treating various ailments including rheumatism and it most definitely offers you a great bath and experience in the middle of the lush natural environment. After a long and tiring trek if you plan on getting wet in this hot spring then you are bound to have a great muscle relaxation.

Ao Luk Mangrove

Krabi offers its tourists a great chance to enjoy some adventures out in a natural but secured setting and the Ao Luk Mangrove is certainly one of the prominent ones. Located 40 kilometers north of the Krabi Town the lush green forest cover and limestone caves are a very peaceful and isolated destination for adventure loving tourists to explore. Then there is the Thak Bok Korani National park which also offers a nice trail down the virgin rain forest allowing you to see many waterfalls, limestone caves, and mangrove plantation. You are bound to encounter many animal and bird species in this part of Krabi as the environment will surely engulf your senses.

Khao Khanab Nam

The natural spectacles you get to see at Krabi never ends as this set of mountains lining a bay is sure to take your breath away. The dusky brownish-grey color of the mountains creates the perfect contrast against the crystal blue waters of the sea. You are sure to get goosebumps once you dive into the water as the high rising mountains with patches of greenery, scattered all across, is sure to give you a kind of out-of-the-world experience. Then once you trek up the mountains you will encounter a range of natural caves from the pre-historic era giving you a certain eerie and yet enjoyable feeling.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is an island, 2 hours cruise from Krabi, which is the ultimate place to lose yourself completely and relax all day long. Just walk down the edge of the pier and view the vast blue ocean stretching for miles. There are many cozy guest houses and fabulous restaurants at this place and it is ideal for the honeymooners. The Utopian piece of land on the Gulf of Thailand is something which all lovebirds seek and if you are a couple visiting Thailand then there could not be any better place to let your hair down and relax under the warm sun with your toes dipped in the sea.

Four Islands

As a tourist you will be pampered with choices of island hopping opportunities in Krabi and you cannot certainly miss trips to the archipelago of the four islands-Poda Island, Phra Nang Cave, the Tup Islandm and the Chicken Island. The boat trip will make you stop at each of the four islands for considerable amount of time thereby allowing you to enjoy your trip to the fullest. The islands are known for their lush green environment, limestone formation, and great eating destinations. The entire trip of the four islands takes almost a day as you can indulge in many water-based activities and plenty of sun bathing in this magical islands surrounding Krabi.

In the Spotlight

Krabi is not known as a fine dining destination unlike Bangkok or Chiang Mai. However, there are many mid-range eateries out here which will simply blow your mind. Particularly if you go to Railay Beach there you will be spoiled with options to grab a bite during the day and dine at the evening. The readily available Thai seafood in this restaurants also helps you save much time as once you are in Krabi you will need to do plenty of traveling. The old Krabi Town is also a delightful place to find a good place to eat, especially by the bay.

Gecko Cabane : Located in the old and charming Krabi Town this little eatery has a distinct European style. Complementing the laid back vibe of the town the restaurant also presents itself as a quaint little outlet with a cozy decor. Read More

With marvelous decor and friendly waiters this is by far the most elegant eateries in the entire island. Set in a massive Sino-Portugese mansion known as the Gorvernor's Mansion this place arguably serves the best Thai food in the entire country. Blue Elephant has branches in other parts of Thailand and also it is a well-known Thai cuisine brand over the world. The restaurant serves scrumptious seafood and the crispy and spicy shrimps are certainly a delight to have Read less

Frog and Catfish : If you are looking to taste authentic seafood from the coastlines of Krabi then this eatery fits perfectly to your need.

This restaurant has the reputation of cooking with the freshest catches of the day and everything is quite tender and delicious. Starting from the stir-fried items to the spicy curries, from the dumplings to the soup, you will have plenty of options to choose from once you enter this restaurant in Krabi. Due to its freshness and quality the seafood dishes are very popular in here and do not forget to try out the fresh crab spring rolls and the pla tub tim boraan which is a whole tilapia fish deep-fried and served with sauce. The place also has a decent collection of books and you can also order beer from the bar. Read less

Khaothong Terrace Restaurant : This Restaurant is known for its authentic food and beautiful view from above. You can literally see the Andaman Sea from this place, Read More

The charismatic chef here makes you feel like home with his scrumptious offerings and delightful service. The menu is quite simple backed by traditional Thai cooking and from fresh seafood to home-cooked duck dishes you will not be short of options to choose. The place is homely and warm with the chef and the waiters guarantying you a nice dinner after you have spent a long day at the beach. Being in proximity to the beach allows the restaurant to fetch a decent crowd, with mostly tourists flocking to this place. Read less

Carnivore Steak and Grill : The The Dutch has made their impact in the Ao Nang beach of Krabi and this restaurant has this genuine European feel adhered to it Read More

Opened back in the year 2003 this restaurant is very popular among the Western backpackers as the patio furniture and the dimly lit interiors make the place very appealing. As the name suggests the place is known for its grilled steaks and meat and you are bound to get a wide variety of quality pork, lamb, and beef in this place. Apart from the grills the place is also known for its varied range of soups and salads keeping its connection with the local Thai delicacies. Read less

Krua Thara : Located in the Nopparat Thara region of Krabi this busy eatery is full of life and color. The patio sitting arrangements are not very appealing but the quality of food served in this place is beyond exceptional. Read More

The place is known for its fresh seafood collection and once you reach there you are bound to have an authentic Thai experience which you will never get in any fine dining venue. With live fish tank (from where you can choose your dinner) to whole range of live sea basket you are bound to have thrilling time selecting your dinner and enjoying it too. The brightly lit arena complements the overall vibe of the place as according to the reviewers the food is absolutely delicious. Read less

Available in the denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20 currency notes, Thai Bahts are the one and only currency acceptable in Krabi. The entire coastlines are highly dominated by small villages, towns, and beach side markets the economy of Krabi is mostly cash dependent. There are many FOREX offices in the airport and also in various other locations around the province. That is why it is important that you convert your currency adequately so that you do not have any hindrance in dining out in Krabi or sailing to a nearby island and enjoy a cozy night out.

Special Tips

- If you are planning on having fine dining experience it will cost you around 800 to 1500 Bahts per person. However, if you choose to enjoy the local stall foods then the price goes down to 50 to 80 Bahts per person.
- A trip on the kayak will cost you 600 Bahts per person whilst a long-tail boat will charge you around 500 Bahts per person.
- An island hopping tour or a jungle safari will cost you around 1200 Bahts per person and same is the cost that you incur for hiring a boat or a car for an entire day.
- The motorbike taxis and the other rides around Ao Nang will charge you around 30 to 50 Bahts whilst a Thai massage will cost you 300 to 900 Bahts depending on the location (beach or spa)
- All the shoppers and the service providers will prefer to be paid in cash and for that reason you make sure that you carry enough for each person in your grou

Entertainment & Event

The city where the monitor lizards roam safely with people welcomes you with smiles and wonders.

Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna

If you look around, nature and animals are everywhere in Krabi. With lush green forests and wide coastal areas flora and fauna are in abundance when it comes to Krabi. The coastline and the backwaters of Krabi has a very dense Mangrove forestation as you will also find some palm and pine trees up in the planes. Apart from those the forest land of Krabi are also covered in many shrubs, varieties of orchids and mosses are found around the lakes and waterfalls. There are in fact 120 types of plants and tropical trees in Krabi and as many as 250 types of herbal trees and ferns. Fruit plants like mangoes, coconuts, tamarinds, and gooseberries. The water-bodies have sea lilies and other aquatic plants.

The forests of Krabi are also known for its huge habitat of insects like butterflies and moths. Beautiful birds like the Gurney's Pitta, which is the rarest bird in entire Thailand, can be seen in the national parks and forests of Krabi. Apart from that you can also see mighty horn-bills and other tropical birds. The forests of Krabi are also the home to various kinds of languors and the crab eating macaque monkeys. Reptiles like monitor lizards, snakes, and crocodiles reside in abundance in Krabi. In the coastal region you will find a great variety of sea turtle and other aquatic animals.
Festivals

Festivals

Festivals

As the province of Krabi is quite close to the sea the festivals and events celebrated here are mostly sea-centric. The people of Krabi depend hugely on their fishing communities and that is why there are many festivals which are related to the sea and the marine lives of Krabi. Like for instance the Loi Ruea Chao Le Festival is an unique local festival of Krabi where they celebrate with the floating boats of the Sea Gypsies who reside in some villages bordering the coastal planes of Krabi. The Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival is also another maritime festival celebrating the opening of the Andaman Sea to the foreign tourists. The Chak Phra Festival Krabi is another local festival which attracts the Buddhist monks as they celebrate the overall maritime history and culture of the land.

Apart from the sea inclined maritime festivals Krabi also has a very own Rock Climbing event which gathers a decent crowd every year. Then there is the Lantaa-Lanta Festival, held every March in the old Krabi Town in order to create a harmony between the locals and the visitors. The Sat Duan Sip Festival is also quite popular in Krabi which is held in the tenth lunar month. The traditional Thai festivals like Songkran and Loi Krathong are also celebrated in the province of Krabi.
culture

culture

Culture

As it is typical for any coastal province of Thailand, Krabi is being frequented by people from all over South-East Asia and for that reason it has a very vibrant and multi-cultural vibe. Whilst Buddhism is the major religion of the place there are many Hindus, Christians, and Muslim people also staying in Krabi. The people of Krabi are mostly friendly and hospitable by nature and they are tolerant towards other religions. There are major Taoist and Mogen population in certain region of Krabi maing it an ideal melting pot of South-East Asian cultures.

It is true that Krabi does not have an architectural heritage unlike Chiang Mai. However, the place itself is rich in history of people coming from different parts of Thailand and China. Krabi has also a long-lasting history of being recognized as the major trading hub of Thailand. The local communities of Krabi are humble and low-profile with most of them being farmers, traders, and fishermen. With the support of the local government the artistic communities are also thriving here in Krabi as there are many marketing platforms present where they can come and sell their products.