Seen from the sky, the Thai region of Krabi looks like a finely detailed mandala with subtle curves: incredibly fine sand covers the beaches with a creamy white. The pattern is topped off with delicate shades of blue from the sea and the sky. Embellishing these clean lines, it’s as though a naughty child has dropped a handful of stones forming rocky islands covered with vegetation. This karstic landscape is reminiscent of the Vietnamese bay of Ha-Long but the proximity of huge expanses of sand and the deep blue of the skies above the coastline make the whole thing more voluptuous and vibrant.
In the south of the country, 800 kilometres away from the capital, Bangkok, the city stretches out to meet the Krabi River and the Andaman Sea. Winding through the city before giving way to the waves in Tambon Pak Nam, an array of streams from the nearby mountain join the river as they shape the landscape. Ao Nang is the most famous of the amazing beaches lapped at by the deep blue waves. This expansive, decadent, central carpet of sand stretches out to the rocks and contributes to Krabi’s reputation as a seaside paradise. A haven of privileged wellbeing, the more intimate Railay beach is cut off from the noise of the engines and stresses of modern life.
Surrounded by hundreds of islands, many of which are untouched, the city is only a short speedboat ride from the fascinating island of Phi Phi. Danny Boyle made the most of its mysterious atmosphere for the dramatic, gripping film, The Beach, staring Leonardo DiCaprio and Virginie Ledoyen, but this island is first and foremost a place where you can rest your soul and marvel at the peace and quiet. The nearby popular Koh Lanta is another well-preserved Garden of Eden. The bay is full of caves, the perfect setting for meditation and temples. But it is higher up in the northeast that you’ll find the stunning Wat Tham Suea, or Tiger Cave Temple, and its impressive statue of Kwam Im. The region’s rolling hills and marine landscape are as popular with climbers as they are with divers. Shopaholics will love the shopping streets, the Outlet Village and the night market with its local food stalls.
A peaceful waterfront destination, Krabi celebrates the beginning of each new tourist season during the Full Moon festival and comes to life with the rest of the country for the Buddhist New Year, otherwise known as Songkran. Always respectful of its monarchy, the city also bows in deference and lights candles to celebrate the birthday of the king, Rama IX. During the Festival of Light, Loy Krathong, hundreds of symbolic baskets made out of leaves are released on the water to guarantee rebirth and good fortune. These “Krathongs” echo the cares that passing travellers bring here to let go of and leave behind in this peaceful place.
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Once a chef in prestigious hotels, Cholaya “Ya” Laothong has decided to pass on her passion for Thai cooking, offering to reveal the secrets of curry, pad Thai and tom kha gai.
Once a chef in prestigious hotels, Cholaya “Ya” Laothong has decided to pass on her passion for Thai cooking, offering to reveal the secrets of curry, pad Thai and tom kha gai.
Ao Nang beach, with its towering cliffs, is the most popular in Krabi, while the one at Phra Nang was voted one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world by one Australian magazine.
Ao Nang beach, with its towering cliffs, is the most popular in Krabi, while the one at Phra Nang was voted one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world by one Australian magazine.
Railay Beach is home to some fabulous marine life, and the Railay Dive Center is committed to environmentally friendly diving, as well as offering the chance to learn about underwater photography.
Railay Beach is home to some fabulous marine life, and the Railay Dive Center is committed to environmentally friendly diving, as well as offering the chance to learn about underwater photography.
Railay is seen as a real Mecca for tropical climbing by many keen rock climbers. There are more than 700 routes running through the limestone cliffs around Phang Nga Bay.
Railay is seen as a real Mecca for tropical climbing by many keen rock climbers. There are more than 700 routes running through the limestone cliffs around Phang Nga Bay.
On the island of Koh Lanta, this animal refuge welcomes abandoned cats and dogs. The team of volunteers at Lanta Animal Welfare regularly opens its doors to visitors, offering them the opportunity to lavish some affection on these poor animals.
On the island of Koh Lanta, this animal refuge welcomes abandoned cats and dogs. The team of volunteers at Lanta Animal Welfare regularly opens its doors to visitors, offering them the opportunity to lavish some affection on these poor animals.
Without question, it is when the sky turns pink towards the end of the day that the karstic landscape of Krabi is at its most bewitching. Step on board a junk, a speedboat or any other type of boat for a truly enjoyable experience.
Without question, it is when the sky turns pink towards the end of the day that the karstic landscape of Krabi is at its most bewitching. Step on board a junk, a speedboat or any other type of boat for a truly enjoyable experience.
Ko Phi Phi boasts two idyllic islands: Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Lee. It is here, in Maya Bay, that “The Beach” was filmed, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. If you fancy somewhere quieter, check out Bamboo Island.
Ko Phi Phi boasts two idyllic islands: Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Lee. It is here, in Maya Bay, that “The Beach” was filmed, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. If you fancy somewhere quieter, check out Bamboo Island.
Whether you’d like to embark on a real adventure, admire the coral reefs or enjoy some stunning beaches, Koh Lanta has something for you. The Mo Koh Lanta National Park encompasses around fifteen islands.
Whether you’d like to embark on a real adventure, admire the coral reefs or enjoy some stunning beaches, Koh Lanta has something for you. The Mo Koh Lanta National Park encompasses around fifteen islands.
Right in the centre of Krabi, this little Buddhist temple, with pleasing lines combining sheer roofs and finely sculpted capitals, is a haven of peace. All white and covered in tiles, Wat Kaew Ko Wararam is easy to identify thanks to the majestic golden dragons that adorn its main staircase and watch over the site’s tranquillity. At the foot of a statue of Buddha, tourists and worshipers come to pray or meditate, while curious dogs observe or come in to enjoy the building’s shade. The modest size of the temple and its unique, peaceful atmosphere guarantee a beautiful experience.
Right in the centre of Krabi, this little Buddhist temple, with pleasing lines combining sheer roofs and finely sculpted capitals, is a haven of peace. All white and covered in tiles, Wat Kaew Ko Wararam is easy to identify thanks to the majestic golden dragons that adorn its main staircase and watch over the site’s tranquillity. At the foot of a statue of Buddha, tourists and worshipers come to pray or meditate, while curious dogs observe or come in to enjoy the building’s shade. The modest size of the temple and its unique, peaceful atmosphere guarantee a beautiful experience.
This is one of the biggest and most prestigious Buddhist temples in the region. Perched on top of a hill, Wat Kaew Korawaram overlooks the hustle and bustle of the centre of Krabi. You can get to it via the Maharaj Road. The path to the main building is lined with magnificent statues of Nāga, the fascinating Hindu deity with the body of a serpent, leading to a 2,500m2 terrace. Wat Kaew Korawaram temple dates back to 1887, when 200 families came to live at Baan Pak Nam (when Krabi had not yet been named) and a community of monks sprang up and prospered.
This is one of the biggest and most prestigious Buddhist temples in the region. Perched on top of a hill, Wat Kaew Korawaram overlooks the hustle and bustle of the centre of Krabi. You can get to it via the Maharaj Road. The path to the main building is lined with magnificent statues of Nāga, the fascinating Hindu deity with the body of a serpent, leading to a 2,500m2 terrace. Wat Kaew Korawaram temple dates back to 1887, when 200 families came to live at Baan Pak Nam (when Krabi had not yet been named) and a community of monks sprang up and prospered.
Who was the young lady to whom Phra Nang beach and its eponymous cave were dedicated? Some tell the story of the wife of a local sailor. Crippled with sadness when the sea stole her husband away, she took refuge in the cave, watching out in vain for her loved one to return. Others talk of an Indian princess who died in a shipwreck washed up on the beach. Whatever the tragic fate of the young woman who is still honoured today, everybody agrees that she helps loyal followers with fertility. They leave wooden statues of phalluses for her, creating a rather unusual atmosphere in the cave.
Who was the young lady to whom Phra Nang beach and its eponymous cave were dedicated? Some tell the story of the wife of a local sailor. Crippled with sadness when the sea stole her husband away, she took refuge in the cave, watching out in vain for her loved one to return. Others talk of an Indian princess who died in a shipwreck washed up on the beach. Whatever the tragic fate of the young woman who is still honoured today, everybody agrees that she helps loyal followers with fertility. They leave wooden statues of phalluses for her, creating a rather unusual atmosphere in the cave.
Legend has it that a real tiger once lived in this cave in the region of Krabi. Locals began to honor the animal as a sacred being and brought him gifts, before the big cat disappeared as suddenly as he had arrived. Others think that the name comes from the shape of the limestone cave, not unlike that of a claw. The main room of the temple is surrounded by small grottoes, dedicated to meditation, as 250 monks still live at Wat Tham Suea. Don’t leave without climbing the 1,237 steps behind the main temple, as the view from the top, 600m up, is breathtaking.
Legend has it that a real tiger once lived in this cave in the region of Krabi. Locals began to honor the animal as a sacred being and brought him gifts, before the big cat disappeared as suddenly as he had arrived. Others think that the name comes from the shape of the limestone cave, not unlike that of a claw. The main room of the temple is surrounded by small grottoes, dedicated to meditation, as 250 monks still live at Wat Tham Suea. Don’t leave without climbing the 1,237 steps behind the main temple, as the view from the top, 600m up, is breathtaking.
Housed within the grounds of the Tiger Cave Temple, this huge statue, six metres tall, is dedicated to Kuan Im (also known as Guanyin), the goddess of mercy. After discovering Buddhist enlightenment, she decided to stop on the Noble Path to listen to the grievances of the people with a compassionate ear, before becoming a Buddha. Normally dressed in white from head to toe, in Krabi, Kuan Im is dressed in gold. This is a wonderful place to enjoy peace and reflection in the midst of the lush green surroundings.
Housed within the grounds of the Tiger Cave Temple, this huge statue, six metres tall, is dedicated to Kuan Im (also known as Guanyin), the goddess of mercy. After discovering Buddhist enlightenment, she decided to stop on the Noble Path to listen to the grievances of the people with a compassionate ear, before becoming a Buddha. Normally dressed in white from head to toe, in Krabi, Kuan Im is dressed in gold. This is a wonderful place to enjoy peace and reflection in the midst of the lush green surroundings.
Thailand is internationally renowned for its jewels, and precious stones, pearls and refined metals are fashioned with incredible skill here. If you’re looking for somewhere to buy some exquisite handmade pieces, head to Chock Dee Handmade. Inspired by Thai tradition, they create chunky silver necklaces, gold bangles and rings decorated with delicately cut stones. You’ll also find some charming jewellery at the city’s “Walking Street Market”, held every weekend behind the Vogue Department Store.
Thailand is internationally renowned for its jewels, and precious stones, pearls and refined metals are fashioned with incredible skill here. If you’re looking for somewhere to buy some exquisite handmade pieces, head to Chock Dee Handmade. Inspired by Thai tradition, they create chunky silver necklaces, gold bangles and rings decorated with delicately cut stones. You’ll also find some charming jewellery at the city’s “Walking Street Market”, held every weekend behind the Vogue Department Store.
One of Thailand’s big tourist draws is the quality of its street food; and Krabi does full justice to this national strength. To make the most of it, wander round the fragrant night markets with their stalls selling curry, soup, fried rice, seafood and much more… Two markets take over the city at night: the biggest and most fascinating is the one opposite the City Hotel (at Soi 10 Maharat Road); the second is on Khong Kha Road, and is like an open-air food court with its string of little restaurants, popular with the locals.
One of Thailand’s big tourist draws is the quality of its street food; and Krabi does full justice to this national strength. To make the most of it, wander round the fragrant night markets with their stalls selling curry, soup, fried rice, seafood and much more… Two markets take over the city at night: the biggest and most fascinating is the one opposite the City Hotel (at Soi 10 Maharat Road); the second is on Khong Kha Road, and is like an open-air food court with its string of little restaurants, popular with the locals.
Opened in 2014, this concentration of shops in a semi-outdoor setting is Ao Nang’s shopping centre. Nor far from the beach of the same name, the Nopparat Thara Plaza and its graceful curves combine elements of ultra-modern architecture with flashes of green, housing around twenty shops. Internationally renowned sportswear brands like Converse and Adidas rub shoulders with art galleries, jewellers, gift shops and local craft stores, as well as shops selling beach fashion and accessories. There are also massage and manicure parlours, as well as restaurants and bars with tempting outdoor terraces.
Opened in 2014, this concentration of shops in a semi-outdoor setting is Ao Nang’s shopping centre. Nor far from the beach of the same name, the Nopparat Thara Plaza and its graceful curves combine elements of ultra-modern architecture with flashes of green, housing around twenty shops. Internationally renowned sportswear brands like Converse and Adidas rub shoulders with art galleries, jewellers, gift shops and local craft stores, as well as shops selling beach fashion and accessories. There are also massage and manicure parlours, as well as restaurants and bars with tempting outdoor terraces.
This explosion of colors and flavors opens its doors at 3am with a maze of market stands. Heavy jackfruit, delicate mangosteens, prickly rambutans… the most exotic sweet flavours are interspersed with carpets of flowers as far as the eye can see. Every morning, far away from the tourist throngs, come and discover one aspect of local life in the huge hall of the Maharat Food Market. Recently renovated, it is now easy to make your way through the different stalls selling fish, spices and meat. Pick up some tips from the menus in the food court to create your own delicious breakfast.
This explosion of colors and flavors opens its doors at 3am with a maze of market stands. Heavy jackfruit, delicate mangosteens, prickly rambutans… the most exotic sweet flavours are interspersed with carpets of flowers as far as the eye can see. Every morning, far away from the tourist throngs, come and discover one aspect of local life in the huge hall of the Maharat Food Market. Recently renovated, it is now easy to make your way through the different stalls selling fish, spices and meat. Pick up some tips from the menus in the food court to create your own delicious breakfast.
In the various villages surrounding Krabi, there are lots of markets selling unbelievably fresh and delicious local ingredients. From the beginning of the afternoon to late evening, you can snap up kilos of tropical fruit, seafood and all sorts of delicious treats. You’ll also find silk clothes and jewellery. The best known market in the region is the one held in Klong Haeng on Saturdays (and, to a lesser extent, on Thursdays). On Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, it’s at Ao Nang that you’ll be able to enjoy this tempting experience, right in the midst of Thai life. On Wednesdays, head to Ao Nam Mao.
In the various villages surrounding Krabi, there are lots of markets selling unbelievably fresh and delicious local ingredients. From the beginning of the afternoon to late evening, you can snap up kilos of tropical fruit, seafood and all sorts of delicious treats. You’ll also find silk clothes and jewellery. The best known market in the region is the one held in Klong Haeng on Saturdays (and, to a lesser extent, on Thursdays). On Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, it’s at Ao Nang that you’ll be able to enjoy this tempting experience, right in the midst of Thai life. On Wednesdays, head to Ao Nam Mao.
Lobster, prawns, crab and other super fresh delights provided by local fishermen are the speciality at Lae Lay Grill. This Thai restaurant in Ao Nang also serves some fantastic vegetarian dishes.
The Hilltop guarantees a delicious sunset, and this gourmet institution combines traditional local cuisine, delicate ingredients from the sea and a gorgeous view of the beaches of Nopparat Thara and Ao Nang.
This is the place to come in the Krabi region for fantastic cheeses, salads and burgers. Jenna’s Fine Wine & Bistro also offers a brilliant picnic basket service so you can eat on the beach.
This stylish venue in Ao Nang boasts tables made of marble, earthenware and pale wood. The Wine V Bar & Bistro accompanies its wide selection of wine with delicious finger food, Pad Thai or international dishes.
Experience a memorable sunset with the sand beneath your feet, then head to Little Jamaica, a bar with all the vibrancy of Kingston that serves delicious fruity cocktails, or the relaxing straw hut of the Sunset Bar. They both serve fantastic traditional dishes too.
Take your taste buds on a journey of discovery at the Sofitel Phokeethra. Choose between the delicate Italian flavours of Venezia, the exquisite Thai dishes served at White Lotus and the international fare dished up at Maya.
Only a short stroll from Krabi’s Ao Nang Beach, this New-York style café is a trendy favourite with locals and visitors alike. The funky concrete interiors feature industrial light-bulbs and leather banquettes, while the menu of freshly-baked pastries and hearty breakfast favourites is accompanied by smooth macchiatos and potent espressos.
Krabi has a tropical monsoon climate, with daytime temperature superior to 30°C almost all year round. Keep in mind that at night the temperature is still high. Expect the hottest months from March to June. The average number of rainy days and rainfall is generally at its highest from July to October, with frequent 30 minutes showers followed by a clear sky.
Krabi annual calendar
Jan
New Year’s Day, 1 January 2016
Fev
Magha Puja, National Holiday commemorating Buddha, 22 February 2016
Mar
Enjoy Krabi’s picturesque beaches, March 2016
Apr
Songkran, Thai New Year Celebrations, 13 – 15 April 2016
May
Coronation Day, in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 5 May 2016
Jun
Head to Kho Phangan for the Full Moon Party, 19 June 2016
Jul
Asalha Puja, National Holiday commemorating, 19 July 2016
Aug
Queen’s Birthday, commemorating Queen Sirikit, 12 August 2016
Sep
Krabi Vegetarian Festival, end of September 2016
Oct
Chak Phra Festival, Procession of Buddha’s Images, end of October 2016
Nov
Loy Krathong, Festival Honouring Buddha, 16 November 2016
Dec
King’s Birthday National Holiday, 5 December 2016
Travel transportation
Transportation
Expect a large range of methods of transportation in Krabi, including: local cabs, private car services, rental car, collective buses (the songthaews), bikes, motorcycle, boats and of course the legendary tuk-tuk (motorized rickshaw).
If you’re planning a day out on the sea to visit some islands, traditional wooden longtail boats can be found on all of the coastal shores and can be rented for the day.
Taxis are cheap and easy to find in Krabi, although you may be tempted to travel by tuk-tuk or songthaews for a more local experience. A trip within Krabi by tuk-tuk or songthaews should be around 30 – 50 bahts.
Motorbikes are also a very convenient way to visit Krabi and its surrounding beaches. Expect to pay a daily fare of around 250 Bahts.
Keep in mind that when driving in Krabi, you must drive on the left side of the road.
Taxis
Air-conditioned taxis can be hired in all of the main resort areas around Krabi Town. The charge is usually higher than tuk-tuks or songthaews and they can be rented for the whole day (expect a fee of 2,500 bahts). A trip in an air-conditioned taxi to the airport should cost around 500 bahts, 600 bahts to Ao Nang and 2,500 bahts to Phuket.
Credit cards are usually not accepted, and keep in mind that you may sometimes have to negotiate the final fare with the taxi driver, who may try to apply a flat fee for the journey instead of the metered system.
getting to & from the airport
Krabi International Airport is located 15 km from the centre of Krabi town. The easiest way to transfer between the airport and Krabi is by the air-conditioned bus service that links the airport and Krabi town. It will take you about 15 minutes and costs 90 – 150 bahts per person. Songthaews (collective taxis) run regularly from the town to the airport and should cost 30 – 50 bahts depending on how much you get overcharged.
Private luxurious air-conditioned taxis can be organised at the airport. It will cost about 500 bahts for the trip to the centre.
* Prices start from. Offer subject to the hotel's conditions and availability. See the sales conditions for the rate. Depending on the country, these prices may not include taxes, may include VAT only or may include all taxes (VAT and city tax). When prices do not include all taxes, the relevant taxes (VAT and/or city tax) will be stated in the following stages of the reservation process. The price is only guaranteed at the time of reservation.
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