- 16 October 2025 by Admin
Krabi Is More Than Just Beaches: Discover Mountains, Waterfalls, and Sacred Temples
Krabi Is More Than Just Beaches: Discover Mountains, Waterfalls, and Sacred Temples
When people think of Krabi Province, they often picture crystal-clear turquoise seas, the world-famous Phi Phi Islands, the sandbanks of Thale Waek, or Ao Nang Beach.
But in reality, Krabi has far more to offer than its world-class beaches. Hidden across the mainland are lush forests, limestone cliffs, refreshing waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, and serene temples that are just as breathtaking.
If you want to explore a different side of Krabi, this guide will take you through 10 stunning natural and cultural attractions beyond the sea that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Emerald Pool – The Jewel of Krabi’s Rainforest
Located in Khao Pra Bang Khram National Park, Khlong Thom District, the Emerald Pool is one of southern Thailand’s most famous natural springs. The water glows a vivid emerald-green hue caused by mineral deposits and the limestone terrain beneath.
What to do
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Walk the 1.4 km nature trail through tropical forest.
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Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pool.
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Capture photos from the wooden bridge surrounded by greenery.
Best time to visit: November – April, when the water is clearest.
Entrance fee: 20 THB (adult) / 10 THB (child)
Location: Khlong Thom Nuea Sub-district, Krabi
2. Khlong Thom Hot Stream – Krabi’s Natural Forest Onsen
Just 15 minutes from the Emerald Pool lies this year-round hot waterfall, where warm mineral water (38–42 °C) cascades over smooth rock terraces, forming natural hot tubs.
Highlights
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Soak in thermal mineral water that soothes muscles and relieves fatigue.
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Alternate between the hot stream and the nearby cool stream.
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Relax amid dense green forest.
Tip: Arrive early (before 10 a.m.) for a quieter experience and the perfect water temperature.
Location: Khlong Thom Nuea Sub-district, Krabi
3. Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint – Krabi’s 360-Degree Panorama
Part of Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, this trail is a must-do for hiking enthusiasts. The 3.7–4.2 km uphill path (about 2–3 hours) leads to the “Dragon Crest Mountain” viewpoint overlooking the Andaman Sea, Ao Thalane, and Hong Islands.
What to do
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Hike early to catch sunrise or stay for sunset.
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Take photos at the famous “Dragon Crest Rock.”
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Observe tropical plants and wildlife along the trail.
Tip: Start around 7 a.m.; bring water and sun protection—no shops on the trail.
Location: Nong Thale Sub-district, Krabi Town
4. Huay To Waterfall – A Forest Cascade Close to Town
Inside Huay To Waterfall National Park, about 17 km from Krabi Town, this medium-sized fall flows year-round from the Phanom Bencha Mountains. It has five main tiers, including Soi Dao, Chan Siew, and Nang Norn.
Activities
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Swim in the natural pools.
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Hike short forest trails and enjoy native flora.
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Stay overnight at park cabins or campgrounds.
Best season: May – November, when water volume is highest.
Location: Thap Prik Sub-district, Krabi Town
5. Than Bok Khorani National Park – Kayak Through Mangroves and Ancient Caves
Situated in Ao Luek District, this national park spans mangrove forests, limestone mountains, and small offshore islands.
Things to do
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Paddle a kayak through Khlong Song Nam, where freshwater meets seawater.
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Visit Tham Phi Hua To Cave, home to 3,000-year-old prehistoric paintings.
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Explore diverse mangrove ecosystems with a local guide.
Tip: Hire a kayak and guide at the park pier. Ideal for eco-travelers who love quiet nature.
Location: Ao Luek Nuea Sub-district, Krabi
6. Phra Nang Cave – The Sacred Cave of Railay
At the end of Phra Nang Beach on Railay Peninsula stands this revered cave shrine dedicated to the spirit of “Phra Nang,” guardian of sailors. The cave’s stalactites and stalagmites frame turquoise sea views.
Things to do
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Pay respects at the shrine for safe journeys and good fortune.
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Stroll along the powdery beach and photograph unique rock formations.
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Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach for a scenic ride.
Location: Ao Nang Sub-district, Krabi Town
7. Tiger Cave Temple – Krabi’s Iconic Hilltop View
Just 5 km from town, Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) is Krabi’s most famous temple. The highlight is a 1,260-step stairway leading to a mountaintop Buddha and a sweeping 360-degree panorama over forests and limestone cliffs.
Highlights
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Giant golden Buddha statue atop the mountain.
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Cave housing Buddha’s footprint and sacred tiger-shaped rocks.
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Breathtaking sunrise and sunset viewpoints.
Tip: Climb early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat; bring plenty of water.
Location: Krabi Noi Sub-district, Krabi Town
8. Khao Khanab Nam – The Twin Limestone Hills of Krabi
These twin cliffs rising beside the Krabi River are the city’s most recognizable landmark.
Activities
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Take a long-tail boat from Thara Park pier to explore caves with prehistoric paintings.
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Enjoy riverside scenery and sunset views.
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Stroll along the riverside promenade for city photos.
Location: Pak Nam Sub-district, Krabi Town
9. Ao Luek Nuea Viewpoint – Serene Sunset Over Limestone Fields
About 40 minutes from Krabi Town, this lesser-known viewpoint offers a tranquil panorama of limestone mountains, rice fields, and sea in the distance.
Highlights
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Peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sunset photography.
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Small local cafés to relax and watch the changing sky.
10. Wat Kaew Korawaram – The Elegant White Temple of Krabi
Located in the heart of Krabi Town, this royal temple combines traditional Thai and southern architectural styles. The gleaming white ordination hall houses a serene Buddha image and exquisite mural paintings.
Highlights
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Distinctive all-white ubosot on a hill overlooking town.
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Convenient location near the night market and walking street.
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Popular place for locals to make merit.
Location: Maharaj Road, Pak Nam Sub-district, Krabi Town
Conclusion
Though Krabi is world-famous for its beaches and islands, the province also hides countless natural wonders on land. From emerald pools and hot springs to soaring limestone peaks, waterfalls, and sacred temples—each destination reveals a different facet of Krabi’s charm.
10 must-visit inland attractions in Krabi:
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Emerald Pool
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Khlong Thom Hot Stream
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Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint
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Huay To Waterfall
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Than Bok Khorani National Park
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Phra Nang Cave
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Tiger Cave Temple
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Khao Khanab Nam
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Ao Luek Nuea Viewpoint
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Wat Kaew Korawaram
So next time you visit Krabi, don’t limit yourself to the sea—
discover its mountains, forests, waterfalls, and temples, and you’ll find that Krabi is truly a paradise of both land and sea, blessed with nature, culture, and tranquility all year round.