Exciting Things to do in Krabi, Thailand

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Zooming in on Thailand, just a couple of hours of ferry ride away from the party beaches of Phuket and Pattaya, is Krabi, a quaint little town with its vivid and eclectic mix of seafood! Boasting of crystal clear emerald green waters and towering cliffs. Krabi has an old-world charm and a laidback atmosphere that almost obscures its adventurous spirit. There are many interesting things to do in Krabi, Thailand for respite and thrill seekers alike.

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Take an Emperor Swing in Hollow Mountain

Being one of the extreme sports in the whole of South East Asia, Emperor swing is just what you need to keep the adrenaline rush throughout the day. Imagine free falling and flying over the top of trees surrounded by looming cliffs and caves all the while feeling insignificant!

It is the most popular thrill ride of the Hollow Mountain.

The hollow mountain itself is really impressive – both the mountain itself and all the work that has gone into making it a top-notch extreme adventure park. Hike up the mountain through the jungle, zip line through the dense forests and culminate it with the terrifying Emperor Swing.

From the launch platform, twin 40-meter ropes extend horizontally to the anchor at the opposite side of the main cave. The swinger jumps off the launch platform, freefalls 30 meters and is then catapulted at high speed outside of the main cave entrance.

Cost – 3000 THB

Looking for more bucket list experiences like this? Check out this post!

PS – I had no clue about this one when I was in Krabi. Although, without a doubt, it would have been the scariest extreme sports experience of my life. I’ll surely try it out the next time I’m in Krabi!

Try rock climbing in Krabi

A post shared by tree_haha (@tree_haha) on Apr 22, 2017 at 12:26am PDT

Krabi is a pitstop for adventure enthusiasts, both land, and water alike. The mighty cliffs over the emerald green waters offer the perfect setting for rock climbers. Climbing gears are available for rent for pro climbers, and there are rock climbing sessions for novice climbers too.

Book Railay Rock Climbing Course Full or Half Day at Krabi here.

Dare yourself to Cliff jump in Krabi

Cliff jumping is certainly scary and exhilarating at the same time.  The seven island tour offers just enough thrill for the novice cliff divers.

Exploring the underwater world through scuba diving

Snorkeling and diving are top island activities and can be enjoyed most of the year. Coral reefs harbor a variety of dolphins, sharks, eels, and rays in the Andaman Sea. However, February to May is known to have the best conditions for visibility and water temperature.

For scuba diving fanatics like me, a visit to any beach town is incomplete without exploring the underwater world. The bountiful and vivid marine life of the Andaman Sea makes it a great preference for scuba diving. Apart from Krabi, nearby islands like Phi Phi and Similan islands also offer great scuba diving opportunities. It sets you back by around 3500 THB.

Read: Planning for a dive trip next? Find out some best scuba diving locations in the world!

Interested to learn more about scuba diving? Start from here.

You can learn scuba diving in Krabi as well. On the other hand, you can head to Koh Tao, which is popular for learning scuba diving, and probably cheaper too. Also, you can check out liveaboard in Thailand as well.

Snorkeling with the legions of colorful fishes

Due to the abundance of marine life, Thailand has some of the best snorkeling opportunities. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of going underwater with all the gears or if you are tight on budget, then try snorkeling. You can try it on your own or you can do it as part of the four islands and seven island tours (tour operators provide snorkel masks).

Kayak your way around Krabi

Kayaking is one of my favorite water sports after diving. And I was so glad to find out that Krabi has plenty of options – be it shallow water kayaking or beach kayaking. The popular ones for shallow water kayaking include Ao Thalane mangrove forests and Ban Bor Thor caves (with prehistoric paintings).

I went to Ao Thalane Mangrove Forests kayaking, and I had a fun time navigating by myself through the mangrove forests.

For beach kayaking, head out to Railay beach and rent out a kayak on an hourly basis for one or two people for 100 baht. An entirely different challenge from shallow water kayaking.

Hike the Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill Nature Trail

Krabi has something up its sleeve for hikers too. This hike can be challenging at times with steep inclines, passes through forests and offers panoramic vistas at various vantage points. Located in Khao Ngon Nak National park, this hike is definitely worth it. Find more details here.

Hiking tip: Carry good shoes and plenty of water! Keep in mind that the trail opens at 8 AM.

Experience the magic of bioluminescence phytoplanktons

The shimmering organisms on the beach water forge a magical setup. To witness this phenomenal brilliance, Railay beach(the most popular beach in Krabi and favorite sunset spot) and Ton Sai would be ideal.  The best way to watch the scintillating phytoplanktons would be to take the seven island tour which includes night snorkeling surrounded by phytoplankton. Alternatively, shell out extra bucks and hire a private boat to take you the phytoplankton spot.

Krabi is one of the 15 locations where you can to see the bioluminescence.

The four island snorkel tour from Krabi includes a visit to Poda Island, Chicken Island, Phra Nang Cave, and so on. It costs about 500 THB. It starts at 9:00 AM and goes on for about 6 hours.

For those who prefer a later start to their day, the seven island tour offers a similar itinerary, but with the added attraction of a sunset over the islands, and the chance of swimming with bioluminescent plankton.

Activities – snorkeling, cliff jumping and bioluminescence sighting. I would recommend the seven island tour. It is totally worth it! It costs about 950 THB. It starts at 2:00 PM and goes on for about 7 hours.

Note: Since 2015, customers on island-hopping tours that stop at beaches are subject to pay National Park entry fees. These must be paid in cash on the day of travel at the rate of 400 THB per adult.

Book tickets for 4 islands trip by Speedboat including lunch

Alternatively, you can go on a 6-hour Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling and meals.

Take a dip in the hot water springs and Emerald pool

Nature’s own hot-tub jacuzzis, the water here comes from thermal springs, originating deep underground in volcanic chambers.

Hot springs are an interesting option, but may not be an ideal keeping in mind the blistering heat situation as is usually the case in this tropical paradise. As an alternative, you can take a dip in the pure spring water of the astonishingly hued emerald pool lying in the vicinity.

Book tickets for Jungle Tour to Tiger Temple, Hot Springs, and Crystal Pool.

Try out caving in Khao Khanap Nam

An hour, long-tail boat ride away from Krabi Town takes you to this magnificent thousand-year-old limestone cave. Gaze at the impressive rock formations and maybe you would spot a bat too!

Costs around THB300 per person for the long tail boat taking you through the mangroves, fish farm and finally the cave and takes about an hour.

Cave entrance fee: THB30.

Going offbeat at Tha Pom Klong Song Nam

Approximately 34 km from Krabi and mostly offbeat. You will hardly find foreigners here.

It is called Two Water Canal because of its special feature location where fresh water meets seawater during the high-tide periods, resulting in a mixture of seawater and freshwater in the canal. The nature trail along the peat swamp forest with crystal clear, emerald-green water is shaded by trees and is quite peaceful.

Entrance fee – THB 50 per person.

Carpark – THB 20

Listing down some of the tours that I found interesting:

Two Day Khao Sak National Park Jungle Safari from Krabi.

Snorkel Tour to Koh Rok + Koh Ha by Speed Boat from Krabi.

Mangrove Boat Trip from Krabi by Long Tail Boat

Thai Cooking Class in Ao Nang

Explore nearby islands

Koh Rong

Koh Hong is a magnificent island with crystal blue waters that warranted a mention in this list. The boat can only enter this place during high tide since it is shallow inside. Nice place to swim as there are hardly any waves. It is reachable by a longtail boat or speedboat. Also part of some full-day tour packages from Krabi which includes a visit to James Bond island, Koh Panyee islands, and so on.

Book tickets for Hong Island Tour From Krabi by Long Tail Boat with Kayaking option here.

Similan islands

Located 95 km north-west of Krabi, Similan islands comprises of nine densely wooded islands fringed with rocky outcrops and turquoise blue waters with fine talcum-powder-like sandbanks that forms the Similan Island, National Park.

Especially on the map for the whale sharks(that can grow up to 12 meters) and manta rays. You have a better chance of spotting the whale sharks between the months of January and March. Overall, the Similan islands are accessible between November and April. The best time to visit is from February to April during the summer months(least amount of rain, better water clarity).

The tours depart from Khao Lak, which is about ninety minutes drive from Ao Nang. It takes about an hour to reach the Similan Islands from Khao Lak. Book one or two-day tours to Similan islands from Krabi or Phuket(closer to Khao Lak).

Note that Similan islands tours can get pretty crowded during season time so much so that you might not find a place to click pictures without people or the boat in the background. Be sure to check with your tour operators regarding the number of people(so that there are enough seats for everyone) and the availability beforehand.

Phi Phi islands

The six-island Koh Phi Phi archipelago made the 2012 National Geographic list of the top 10 islands in the world, and its marine life is a leading reason.

Some of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand can be found in Koh Phi Phi!

There is plenty of marine life to be seen and beautiful underwater corals, Clownfish & Hawksbill turtles, are commonly sighted around the islands, as well as Black-Tip Reef Sharks; which after the recent closure of Maya Bay are, sharks are now once again being regularly spotted returning swimming in the bay.

Getting to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi is pretty easy, with regular speedboats running from Klongjilard Pier. The travel time is around 45 minutes, or ferries take roughly two hours but at a lower price. You can book a snorkel tour once you arrive, or reserve a place online in advance. I’d recommend booking your trip with Five Star Tours, as they have a wide selection of packages and great reviews online.

Cost – 500 to 1,600 THB

Pro Tip: If you choose a boat tour that doesn’t stop at Bamboo Island; you can save yourself 400 THB in National Park fees!

Apart from the gorgeous beaches, Phi Phi is a well-known party island among the young crowd. The nightlife here is pretty wild and crazy with fire shows and beer games. Check out this post for things to do in Phi Phi.

Book tickets for Phi Phi Island Full-Day Tour From Krabi.

Phuket

Phuket is one of the mainstream locations of Thailand, famous mostly among the honeymooners or wild party goes. However, you can still explore Phuket offbeat going beyond the tourist trail.

Tour bookings

Usually, the hostels or hotels have conducted tours to islands and other activities. Alternatively, roam around Ao Nang beach and you will find plenty of tour operators. Almost all of the tours provide transfers from and to your stays, sometimes lunch or dinner included. Book the tours of your choice at least a day prior.

If you have more time to explore Thailand, then check out this post on a complete South Thailand itinerary.

Krabi accommodation

Krabi town has tons of accommodation options. However, there isn’t much to do nearby. It’s better to head out to Railay or Ao Nang beach for accommodations. Stop by at the Krabi market when you are in town.

Railay beach has very few and upscale accommodations available. On the other hand, Ao Nang Beach has plenty of choices for stays and is usually the home base for many travelers moving around. (15 minutes away from Railay).

Here are a few recommendations at Krabi from HostelWorld and Booking.com.

Slumber Party Hostel –  One of the top-rated hostels in Krabi. It is a party hostel known for its bar crawls. Nice and comfortable rooms, friendly staff and great value for money. Prefer higher floor rooms as it is not so loud and you will still get a good amount of sleep in a party hostel. Ideal for a budget stay and solo travel. Click Here To Book Now

Krabi Resort – Only resort in AoNang beach with a private beachfront area, Krabi resort has pool rooms and villa, perfect for a luxury vacation in Krabi. Click Here To Book Now

Wake Up Aonang Hotel – One of the top-rated hotels in Aonang Beach, Wake Up Aonang Hotel is budget-friendly and comfortable at the same time. Ideal for solo travelers too. Click Here to Book Now

Getting to Krabi, Thailand

By Air

Krabi International Airport is the direct and fastest mode of transport to Krabi. It is about 40 minutes away by car. The local airport limo monopoly charges a fairly steep THB600+ for a transfer (up to four persons). Many hotels will arrange a pickup at similar prices on request. The travel time is about half an hour. However, expect a layover at Bangkok while heading to Krabi in which case make sure you have at least two hours transit from Bangkok if you are opting for Visa On Arrival.

There is an air-conditioned bus service from the airport to Ao Nang. Services throughout the day and travels from the airport to Krabi Town, the ferry terminal, then on to Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara. Good for some sight-seeing. Rates are 150 baht per person and travel time to Ao Nang is one hour. The best part is, however, the bus can drop you off at the doorstep of most hotels in Krabi Town, Ao Nang, and Nopparat Thara.

On the other hand, owing to fewer flights flying to Krabi, many opt for Phuket International Airport.

By Ferry

The easiest option to Krabi from Phuket or Phi Phi islands is through local ferries. Check with your accommodation to arrange a ferry for you or you can directly book with the tour operators available in Krabi at least a day prior. The ferries drop you either at AoNang Pier or Krabi town Pier. It is usually available throughout the year at multiple times during the day. However, it may not be guaranteed during the off-season.

By Bus

The nearest inter-provincial bus station is in Krabi Town. Direct buses to Krabi operate daily from the Southern Bus Terminal of Bangkok and take up to 10 hours to reach Krabi (THB600 – THB900). There are also daily buses flying from Phuket(THB155) and Koh Samui(THB400 via Surat Thani) and take up to 3-4 hours to reach. Options include air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned, deluxe and luxury coaches.

Self-drive

One can rent cars to travel between Krabi and other parts of Thailand such as Bangkok and Phuket and also for traveling within Krabi. Thailand is a left-hand drive country and it is also a must to have an international driving license to drive in Thailand. Renting motorbikes is another good way to explore Krabi. Bikes are available for hire on a daily basis; however, one has to pay for gasoline.

Getting around Krabi

Get around Krabi beaches through the ubiquitous long-tail boats.

From Ao Nang beach, longtail boats depart when full from 08:00 and cost 100 baht per person(one way), 200 baht per person(two way) until 18:00 and 150 baht thereafter. These can drop you at Railay West, Ao Tonsai or Haad Phra Nang. Tickets can be purchased at a booth near Ao Nang beach.

Koh Phi Phi: A year-round ferry departs Railay at 09:45 and costs 400 baht. From Phi Phi, it returns to Railay at 15:30.

Book tickets for Ferry transfers between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket.

Phuket: A year-round ferry departs Railay at 15:00 and costs 650 baht. In high season, a speedboat departs at 10:30 and costs 1,200 baht. From Phuket, the year-round boat returns to Railay at 08:30.

Book tickets for Railay to Phuket High-Speed transfer.

Koh Lanta: It takes about two hours to travel from Koh Lanta to Krabi. There is an express ferry available for transfer.

Book tickets for Express Ferry between Ao Nang and Koh Lanta.

All of the ferries are dependent on weather and sea conditions as well.

There are also ferry and bus transfers between Krabi and Koh Samui.

Find out more & book tickets now.

Thailand Visa

Thailand provides a Visa On Arrival option for many nationalities including Indians. It is also possible to procure a visa beforehand by submitting the documents to the VFS centers present in major cities. Applying for a visa beforehand makes sense if you don’t have time to wait in line for Visa on arrival at Thailand Immigration or if you are entering through a port of entry which doesn’t issue visas. Submit a copy of return tickets, accommodation bookings, bank statements, passport size photos, and a cover letter to the VFS center ideally at least a month prior to the travel. Find more information about it here.

On the other hand, if you’d like to apply through an agent, then checkout iVisa – a platform providing global visa services.

Apply for a Thailand visa here.

So, what are your favorite things to do in Krabi? Let me know in the comments below.