If you are looking for beachside adventure, then Krabi has so much more to offer. There are heaps of activities to indulge in be it long lazy beach days or rock climbing adventures. This Thai province is made up of 8 districts popular for an ultimate tropical getaway.
Below we have come up with an ultimate guide to help you plan your trip to Krabi with ease.
How To Reach:
Krabi is now well connected via air, bus, train and roads. Rent a car between other parts of Thailand and Krabi. If looking to explore the place, rent a bike on a daily basis to move around. The nearest train station is at Trang, which is a two-hour journey from Krabi. You can also take a bus directly from Bangkok or Phuket or fly through the Krabi International Airport.
Climate and Weather:
This province lies in the equatorial zone and has two main seasons –hot & dry and wet & cold. The most preferred time for tourists to visit is anywhere between November and April. Due to regular rainfall, humidity stays high anywhere between 65%-90%. Temperatures can often drop at night and it may get a bit chilly.
What To Pack:
Packing right can help you stay at ease and have an enjoyable vacation. Lightweight clothes, a cardigan or sweater, sunglasses, flip-flops, handy flashlight, rain jacket, dry bags, sunhat or a cap. Other than this don’t forget to pack essentials like sunblock, mosquito repellant, batteries, camera, memory cards and your travel documents and IDs.
Things To Do:
Krabi is an ideal winter vacation destination and has some amazing sights and activities for travellers. Getting around the city is easy with door-to-door pick-ups and thus makes it convenient to explore around. Here are a few things you must not miss when in Krabi.
Get Real With Island Hopping
There are more than 150 islands around Krabi for you to start exploring. Soak up the breathtaking scenery and explore some isolated coves and emerald lagoons. When looking forward to visiting these beautiful islands do put Ko Hong, Ko Mor, Ko Poda and Ko Tub on your to-see list. You can also visit the Ko Khao Phing Kan aka James Bond Island and relive a part of The Man With The Golden Gun.
There are many activities for you to experiment with around these islands like scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking. Just choose what you like and dive in. Most excursions begin at the Krabi Town or Ao Nang.
Get Away To Railay
You have to see Railay in order to understand what you have been missing on. This beach gives you white sands, limestone cliff and lots of flora around. Sit back, relax and sip in some cocktails while you enjoy the serene beauty of nature.
There are many nearby markets you can explore to stretch your legs. Walk up to the Tham Phra Nang, which is a sacred shrine bringing good luck to fishermen. There is a viewpoint and a lagoon ahead which are a must visit too.
Railay also has a rock-climbing centre for adrenaline junkies that offer various courses and expeditions for amateurs and advanced climbers.
Explore The Vibrant Markets
Round off your leftover time touring the Walking Street with many happening night markets. There are many stalls selling clothing, handicrafts and souvenirs along with many bars and eateries that make the night come alive with fun and frolic. Don’t forget to buy a memento to remind you of the amazing time in Krabi.
You can also take a cookery course to learn the secrets of authentic Thai cuisine as served traditionally in Krabi. Learn the magic of creating dishes like a local with the right ingredients and recipes at hand. Try your hand at making some massaman curry, pad Thai, deep-fried bananas and sticky rice.
Experience The Tranquility of The Tiger Cave Temple
Also known as Wat Tham Seua, this cave temple is a very important religious sight out here. Climb up all of the 1237 stairs to get a staggering panoramic view of the Andaman’s and it’s neighboring islands. This Buddhist sanctuary also houses a reliquary along with ornate Buddha statues and beautiful gilded stupas.
If the climb seems difficult for you, then either opt for a tuktuk ride or see several caves located below. You can shop for some amazing art, handicrafts, sculptures and much more. This jungle like periphery is often frequented by notorious monkeys, so make sure you watch out for them.
An Adventure Awaits
Krabi also has many activities that you can look forward too if sitting back and relaxing is not your style. Head to the Songprak River and go out for some water rafting. There are many levels available so you can choose what difficulty suits you the best.
Take up a quad biking trail in Ao Nang or organize a hiking trip to a national park. There are many mountainous landscapes stretching across miles of plush and plenty of rainforests with an abundance of flora and fauna at the Bencha National Park. These astounding surroundings will leave you speechless.
You can also trek along waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints in the Dragon Crest Mountains (Khao Khanab Nam Mountains) and take in all of the natural beauty Krabi has to offer.
Where To Eat:
If you like to traditional Thai food, you will be glad to be in Krabi. Although you can find Italian and American menu eateries here, do indulge in the local cuisine that this town has to offer.
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Seafood Street –A top-notch place to indulge in affordable seafood while enjoying the salty air. You can check out the Longtail Boat and Ban Lay Thai Kitchen to feast on some lip smacking seafood.
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Blue Mango –This casual restaurant is a great place to dine and has many cuisines to offer. Nonetheless, all their Thai dishes are up to the mark. Do try their Tom Yam Goong Soup and the Massaman curry.
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Lae Lay Grill –This upscale restaurant is located behind the Ao Nang Beach and serves selected Thai cuisine along with some grilled seafood. A must visit for all the foodies. Their Andaman platter is simply to die for.
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Krabi Town Walking Street –This weekend market can get you another step closer to local Thai culture. There are so many new and unique things to try out here. Do sample out famous delicacies like Takoyaki octopus balls, Thai duck rice and Pad Thai.
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The Hilltop –This restaurant is located quite high up thus gives and amazing view of the sunset. Their menu can confuse any foody as there is so much to try out here. Some good options are spicy mixed seafood, deep-fried squid with garlic & pepper and stir-fried pork rice with basil leaves.
So, here’s to hoping that this guide helps you pack and plan right for a trip down to Krabi. Plan ahead and make the most of your holidays. Be sure that this town will give you many sun-kissed, beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime.