Ao Nang (Nang Bay)
Ao Nang is located approximately 20 kilometers from the town of Krabi. A large bay with scenic beaches and 83 small islands, Ao Nang has several famous beaches including East Rai Le, West Rai Le and Tham Phra Nang (cave) which stretches to the foot of a prominent limestone range. A boat from Ao Nang Village can be hired for sightseeing excursions around Ao Nang, Hat Tham Phra Nang and Hat Nam Mao, all of which are only accessible by foot..
Other offshore isles such as Ko Poda, Ko Kai, Ko Mo and Ko Thap, are popular destinations that can be reached by a rented boat from Ao Nang. An abundance of colorful coral reefs and lovely cartoon fishes make these islands ideal for diving and snorkelingHat Noppharat Thara (Noppharat Thara Beach)
Located 6 kilometers from Ao Nang, It is a famous 3-kilometer long white sandy beach lined with dense casuarinas and coconut groves. The beach, paved with tiny seashells, was formerly called "Hat Khlong Haeng", which means dried canal beach by locals, because the canal dries up during low tide and the area turns into a long beach. 
Hat Noppharat Thara, situated 18 kilometers north-west of Krabi, is in fact part of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and is the location of the Park headquarters. This Park covers a large area both onshore and offshore. Ferry services to Ko Phi Phi are provided from this beach all year round. This beach can be reached by songthaew from the city at the rate of 20 baht and to travel further to Ao Nang, it will cost an additional 10 baht.
Hat Rai Le (Rai Le Beach)
This beach is normally divided into two sections, east and west. West Rai Le provides visitors with peace and quiet as it is a broad sandy beach with fewer facilities than Ao Nang. Across the peninsula from West Rai Le is East Rai Le, which is different from other beaches in the area because it could actually be classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide.
In addition to remarkable views and mangrove forests to the north of the beach, the main attraction for visitors to Hat Rai Le is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing. The limestone cliffs on the huge headland between Hat Rai La East and Tham Phra Nang, as well as other nearby islands provide world-class rock climbing facilities against a stunning backdrop of the sea with approximately 700 sport routes of mid to high difficulty ratings.Hat Tham Phra Nang (Tham Phra Nang Beach)
Accessible only by boat, this stunning, pristine beach has fine-grained white sand and crystalline waters as well as magnificent jagged karsts. This is a highly secluded picture perfect beach that attracts thousands of visitors year round but is able to maintain its flawless appearance and relaxing ambience.The Inner and Outer Phra Nang Caves, and Phra Nang Lagoon, which are located nearby offer remarkable views against a stunning backdrop and a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Although these attractions are accessible only by boat, they still draw numerous visitors for recreational and adventurous activities such as diving, snorkeling, hiking and rock climbing.
Khao Khanap Nam (Khanap Nam Mountains)
Khao Khanap Nam, which is regarded as the symbol of Krabi, are two mountains that are roughly 100 meters tall, separated by Maenam Krabi (Krabi River) and located at the entrance to Krabi city. Khao Khanap Nam has beautiful caves with amazing stalactites and stalagmites worth exploring. The mountains can be reached by taking a 15-minute long tail boat ride from Chao Fa Pier. A boat can be rented at 300 baht per trip to visit Khao Khanap Nam, mangrove forests and Ko Klang fishing village.
Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands)
Regarded by travelers as being among the most beautiful tropical islands of the world, Phi Phi Islands have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand. Additionally, the islands are famous as the location where the movie "The Beach" featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. 
Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 kilometers away from both Krabi and Phuket. Therefore, most tourists think that Ko Phi Phi is part of Phuket Province.The islands and the coastal hills are composed mainly of limestone and are an extension of the limestone mountain range in Phang-Nga Province. The main characteristics of these mountains and islands are their steep cliffs, large caves and dwarf trees growing out of the rock crevices, like those in Phang-Nga Bay.
The island group is composed of two rocky, tree-covered islets Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. Phi Phi Don, the larger islet to the north, is well known for its fine beaches and coral formations. Above average tourist facilities and accommodations are available along two beautiful curved bays, namely Ton Sai Bay and Lodalam Bay. Several shops at Ton Sai can arrange diving and snorkeling trips around the island or the nearby islands - Ko Phi Phi Le, Ko Yung and Ko Mai Phai.
About 2 kilometers to the south is Phi Phi Le. Contrary to Phi Phi Don, this islet is uninhabited as there is no beach area as the island descends abruptly into the sea on all sides and it is prohibited by the administrative body. The main attraction is a large cave about 3.2 square kilometers in size known as Viking Cave derived from one of the numerous drawings on the wall which resembles a Viking ship. The cave has a 10 to 15-metre high ceiling which contains many ledges inhabited by thousands of swallows, thus a bird's nest collection demonstration is a regular feature of guided tours.
Ao Maya and Ao Lo Sama - Phi Phi Islands scenic coves are favorite snorkeling places while the sea around the islands, especially the southern part, which are deep and full of coral formations are popular diving spots. With its emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi is a paradise in the Andaman Sea. The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from November to April, when the sea is calm.
Ko Yung, an island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don, has a stone beach on the east and small sandy beaches amid valleys. Additionally, the island is teeming with diverse colorful coral reefs. Ko Phai(Phai Island) , another island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don and not far from Ko Yung, has spectacular beaches in the north and east of the island. The bank of coral reefs comprised mainly of antler corals stretches from the north to the south of the island.
Getting to Phi Phi Islands
From Krabi
Chao Fa Pier: Passenger boats leave Chao Fa Pier twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes about 2.30 hours.
Ao Nang: There is one express boat trip leaving daily at 9 p.m. taking 40 min.
From Phuket
Many tour companies in Phuket organize one-day trips to Phi Phi Islands. Tickets can be obtained from any hotel.
Sa Kaeo (Kaeo Pond)
Within the Sa Kaew compound in Khao Thong Sub-district forest plantation area are eight small natural ponds which is currently a major recreational area for the local residents. Sa Kaeo is 28 kilometers from town on the Krabi-Nai Sa route (Highway No. 4034).
Susan Hoi or Fossils Shell Beach
Susan Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. This shell graveyard at Ban Laem Pho was once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimeters thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore. The site is located 17 kilometers from the town.
Thale Waek (Separated Sea)
One of Thailand's unseen highlights, Thale Waek is situated along Ko Dam Khwan. As the tide recedes, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to amazingly connect the two islands at low tide. The best time to visit Thale Waek is 5 days before and after the full moon from December to beginning of May. To visit Thale Waek, proceed on Highway No. 4034 from the city, then turn left and follow Highway No. 4202 to Ao Nang.
Tham Sadet
This beautiful cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites is located at Ban Nong Kok, Tambon Sai Thai, 7 kilometers from town on Highway No. 4034. "Sadet" means visit, and the use of the term in the name of the cave refers to the royal visit to the site in 1909 by the King Rama VI (at that time that Crown Prince).
Wat Sai Thai
The monastery is Krabi's central temple and a local gathering point during Buddhist events and weddings. The main attraction in the temple is an impressive reclining Buddha image.
Wat Tham Suea
Wat Tham Suea, which literally means tiger cave temple, is located in the Khiriwong Valley amidst lush forests and mountains with large trees over a hundred years old approximately 9 kilometers northeast of Krabi Town. Aside from being the site of a meditation center, the compound is also a place of archaeological and historical interest as excavations have uncovered stone tools, pottery remains and Buddha footprint crafting molds. In addition, a cave in the compound has what appears to be tiger paw prints in the stone.
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Amphoe Ao Luek (Ao Luek District)
Mu Ko Hong (Hong Islands)
Mu Ko Hong consists of a group of limestone islands including Ko Lao or Ko Sa Ka, Ko Lao Riam, Ko Pakka, Ko Lao La Ding and Ko Hong or Ko Lao Li Pe which is the biggest island to the south. The attractions on these islands include fine beaches, shallow and deep-water coral reefs and various kinds of fish while popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, sea-canoeing and nature studies on the 400-meter hiking trail around Ko Hong.
Mu Ko Hong is located at the edge of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, and is accessible by a 1-hour boat trip from Ao Nang. The park charges for 200 baht per person for entrance with an additional fee of 20 baht per person for camping on the island.
Tham Chao Le (Chao Le Cave)
Tham Chao Le is located in the west of Laem Sak in the bay where mountains and picturesque islands surround it. It is accessible by taking a boat from Laem Sak. The trip takes 10 to 15 minutes.
In the cave, there are prehistoric paintings featuring men, animals and geometric symbols including stalactite and stalagmite formations. It is assumed that the paintings may have been painted after those of Tham Phi Hua To.
Tham Lot (Lot Cave)
To visit this cave, hire a rental boat from the Bo Tho Pier and travel along the Tha Prang Canal, passing a mangrove swamp for approximately 15 minutes. Tham Lot is a tunnel under a limestone mountain where a natural stream runs through a small tunnel and charming stalactite and stalagmite formations are found. The cave can be visited only during low tide
Tham Phet (Phet Cave)
The name of this cave "Phet", which means diamonds, is derived from the sparkling stone inside the cave that produces beautiful reflections on the cave wall just like glittering diamonds. This cave is 3 kilometers from the Ao Luk Nua market intersection.
Tham Phi Hua To (Phi Hua To Cave)
Situated just 500 meters from Tham Lot, the cave can only be visited by boat from Bo Tho Pier. The cave is in Phi Hua To Mountain which is surrounded by mangrove swamps. There are 2 different paths inside the cave. On the left lies the shortcut to the back of the cave where the sunlight can shine through, and on the right is a path to a natural hall believed to have been a shelter for prehistoric people. Prehistoric paintings of men, animals, human organs and numerous seashells can be seen in the cave. Big human skulls had been discovered in the cave, thus giving the cave its present name.
Than Bok Khorani National Park
This National Park covers is located one kilometer from Tambon Ao Leuk Neua Market intersection on the Ao Luk Sak road. There are several natural ponds of emerald water in a shady forested area. Tourists can enjoy swimming in these ponds. Admission is 200 baht per person.
Camping in the park can be done but tourists have to bring their own tents. Other attractions in the park including several caves in limestone mountains, verdant mangrove forests, and beautiful islands which can be reached only by boat.
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Amphoe Khao Phanom (Phanom Mountain District)
Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
Located 20 kilometers from Krabi along Talat Kao-Ban Huai To Road, the Park covers a total area of 50 square kilometers including some parts of Amphoe Ao Luk, Amphoe Khao Phanom, and Amphoe Mueang.
Khao Phanom Bencha National Park has pristine, lush forest on its highest peaks. Admission is 200 baht per person. A tent can be rented at the rate of 50 baht per person per day. For additional information contact Phanom Bencha National Park headquarters at P.O. Box 26 Amphoe Mueang, Krabi 81000 or tel: 0-7662-9013.
With streams, waterfalls, and wild life enhancing its magnificent scenery, the park's major attractions are follows:
Namtok Huai To (Huai To Waterfall)
Located approximately 500 meters from the Park's office, this waterfall flows over rocks into 11 huge pools, each with their own name, such as Wang Thewada, Wang Sok, and Wang Chan. Another 3-tiered waterfall originating from a high-altitude cliff called Namtok Huai Sa-de is located some 1.2 kilometers from the Parks office. Apart from visiting waterfalls, adventurous visitors can trek to the peak of the Phanom Bencha Mountain, which is 1,397 meters high. This challenging and memorable activity takes at least 3 days and passes streams, waterfalls, caves and view points on high cliffs.
Namtok Khlong Haeng(Khlong Haeng Waterfall)
This 500-meter high waterfall, which springs from Khao Thep Bencha, Krabis tallest mountain, is 10 kilometers from Amphoe Khao Phanom. Accommodations are provided within the park but advance reservations are required. For more information please contact the Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Tambon Thap Prik, Amphoe Mueang, Krabi 81000.
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Amphoe Khlong Thom (Khlong Thom District)
Emerald Pool
This hot spring originates from a warm stream in the lowland forest of Khao Nor Juji which is supposedly Thailand's last piece of virgin and fertile forest. The intensity of the pools turquoise colored water varies according to the light and time of the day so visitors determined to see the real emerald color should plan to visit at dawn or early in the morning. The pool, which can be visited all year round, charges and entrance fee of 20 baht. To get there, take Highway No. 4 to Khlong Thom District, then turn left to Route No. 4038 to Lam Hap Sub-district. The Emerald pool is located along the way, with clear signs posted.
Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary
Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Ban Bang Tiao, 18 kilometers from Amphoe Khlong Thom. Major attractions in this Sanctuary include a 2.7-kilometer nature trail through lowland forests, the Emerald Pool and a variety of natural habitats. The forest is home to rare birds like Gurney's Pitta, Rufus-colored Kingfisher, Black Hornbill, and various kinds of plants. Visitors are allowed to stay overnight but they have to bring their own tents.
Namtok Hin Phoeng (Hin Phoeng Waterfall)
In order to see this 3-level waterfall, which drops from a height of 800 meters, visitors have to take a 400-meter walk along the mountainside after arriving at the lower basin. The waterfall is situated 25 kilometers from Khlong Thom District and can be reached by driving along Highway No. 4 (Krabi-Trang), turning left at Khlong Phon Market and proceeding for another 8 kilometers.
Namtok Ron Khlong Thom (Hot shower Waterfall)
The waterfall, located quite near to the Emerald pool, is in a shady forest area with numerous hot springs. The hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades of warm water with a temperature of 40-50 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit is from 7.00 a.m. to 8.00 a.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. To reach the waterfall visitors should travel 45 kilometers from town to Amphoe Khlong Thom, then take Sukhaphiban 2 Road for another 12 kilometers. The admission fee is 10 baht per person.
Wat Khlong Thom Museum
The Museum exhibits various artifacts discovered during excavations of an area called "Khuan Luk Pat" or a bead mound behind Wat Khlong Thom. Unearthed artifacts include stone tools, bronze implements, metal coins, pottery shards, ceramic and stone decorative art and colored beads that are over 5,000 years old. This Museum is situated within the compound of Wat Khlong Thom between Kilometer marker 69-70 on Phetchakasem Highway, one kilometer from the District office.
Tham Khao Phueng (Khao Phueng Cave)
This group of 5 caves, which is approximately 3 kilometers from the park's office, has sparkling white walls and countless stalagmites and stalactites of various shapes resembling mushrooms, pagodas and curtains.
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Amphoe Ko Lanta (Lanta Island District)
Hin Daeng
Despite being a hazard to ships this submerged open water reef on the outer edge of the Andaman Sea is a superb diving spot featuring diverse colorful corals.
Ko Ha (Five Island)
An archipelago of five islands, Ko Ha Yai is where shallow water coral reefs are located.
Ko Hai (Hai Island)
This small island has a long sandy beach in the east and unspoiled shallow water coral reefs at the beachfront. The island is accessible by taking a ferry and a chartered boat from Pak Meng Pier, Trang province.
Ko Lanta (Lanta Island)
Ko Lanta consists of two adjacent islands: Ko Lanta Yai and Ko Lanta Noi.
Koh Lanta Yai, This island is home to "Chao Le" or sea gypsies who continue to maintain their traditional lifestyle and beliefs, such as setting a boat a drift to drive out evil and bring good luck, which is practiced during the full moon in June and November. In addition, the island provides tourist facilities while Ko Lanta Noi is the location of the district office. Most of the beaches on Ko Lanta Yai such as Kho Kwang, Khlong Dao, Phra Ae, Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Ba Kan Tiang lies in the west, can be reached by road and offer a wide range of accommodations.
Ko Rok (Rok Island)
This attraction is actually comprised of two islands: Ko Rok Nai and Ko Rok Nok. Ko Rok Nai is composed mainly of steep cliffs with superb beachs and unspoiled coral reefs among rocks. On the other hand, Ko Rok Nok has soft white sandy beaches and shallow water coral reefs towards the southeast and south with Hat Thalu and Ao Man Sai situated at the end of the island. Visitors can contact tour operators, resorts and bungalows on Ko Lanta Yai for an excursion to Ko Rok by speedboat. However, it is not recommended to take the trip by long-tail boat.
Ko Talabeng (Talabeng Island)
This is a limestone island similar to Ko Phi Phi Le with numerous small and attractive beaches and caves that are clearly visible during low tide. Another attraction is the swallows that can be seen on the island.
Mu Ko Lanta National Park
Covering an area of 152 square kilometers, the Park is comprised of many different-sized islands, some of which are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs such as Ko Ha, Ko Rok and Ko Hai. The Parks main island is Ko Lanta Yai, where both the Headquarters and National Park Office are located. The island itself is generally rugged and mountainous with gravelly and sandy beaches to the south. The most suitable time to visit Ko Lanta is from November to April. For more information please contact Mu Ko Lanta National Park, No.5, Tambon Ko Lanta Yai, Amphoe Ko Lanta, Krabi 81150, Tel. 0-7562-9018-9.
Travel to Ko Lanta
Boat departs from downtown Krabi to Ko Lanta Yai daily. The journey takes 2.5 hours.
Credit:
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- www.krabi.go.th
- www.pantip.com
