If you're planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to spend some time in Krabi. Krabi is located on the west coast of southern Thailand and is surrounded by beautiful limestone cliffs and paradise-like islands.

Krabi has it all: mountain-top temples, emerald pools, hot springs, caves, and pristine beaches.

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

Aside from boat trips to Phi Phi and Hong Islands (more information in the article 5 Must-See Destinations in Krabi), here are ten of the best things to do in Krabi:

1. Tiger Cave Temple

One of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand is the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi also known as Wat Tham Suea. It’s also known for its challenging climb up the mountain to Tiger Cave Temple overlooking limestone cliffs and lush rainforest. 

Yes, the Tiger Cave Temple is on top of a mountain which unfortunately means lots and lots of stairs, 1260 vertical steps to be exact! Be prepared for a 309-meter vertical ascent along a 600-meter path, but don’t worry I can assure you the views are worth the sweat and struggle.

Honestly, if you are scared of heights or unfit, I would not even consider this climb. Some stairs are relatively small steps but a lot of stairs are almost knee-high and vertical!

Even if you’re fit this hike is still challenging as the heat and uneven stairs make it difficult. There are many places to stop, rest and enjoy the surrounding views of the valley and beautiful panorama and I suggest you do so. It will take you at least 40 minutes to get to the top. Allow at least 3 hours to visit Tiger Cave Temple. This should give you plenty of time to climb up the mountain, enjoy the views at the top and make the challenging steep climb back down.

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

Tips on visiting the Tiger Cave Temple:

·        The best time to visit the Tiger Cave Temple is early morning or late afternoon. Avoid the hottest part of the day.

·        Bring plenty of water with you!!!

·        Enjoy the sunset on top of the mountain (start your hike up an hour before sunset to give you plenty of time to get there)

·        If you are visiting during sunset make sure to bring headlamps with you on the way down.

·        Be aware of the monkeys. Don’t feed them or try to pet them. Put all your loose belongings e.g., sunglasses, phones etc. in your bag so they won’t grab them from you.

·        Bring small cash with you for a donation. No entry fee.

·        Wear modest clothing (women should have their shoulders and knees covered). Bring a change of clothes for the climb up to the top of the mountain

2. Emerald Pool + Blue Pool

Emerald and Blue Pool is located inside Thung Teal Forest Natural Park surrounded by several hiking trails. Emerald Pool is a 10–15-minute flat easy walk through the forest, mini waterfalls, and streams.

Blue Pool is another 5–10-minute walk past Emerald Pool (Blue Pool opens at 10 am) Swimming is permitted at Emerald Pool but not at Blue Pool! The Emerald Pool entrance fee is 200 Baht.

As Emerald Pool, Little Palm Homemade, and Krabi Hot Springs are all in the same area, plan on visiting all three in one day.

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

3. Little Palm Homemade

Little Palm Homemade is a cafe set in a beautiful palm garden near Krabi Hot Springs. This cafe is a true hidden gem that serves fresh, delicious, homemade baked goods. Try their Cheesy Chicken Burger and Fruit Croffle, both of which are delicious!

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4. Krabi Hot Springs

Krabi Hot Springs is set in a small rainforest (a short easy 10-minute walk from the parking lot), with streams cascading down to form a waterfall with several natural spring water pools.

The best time to visit is either between 7 am to 8 am or 4 pm to 5 pm to avoid the busiest and hottest time of the day.

The entry fee is 200 Baht for adults and 80 Baht for children. It’s recommended to only sit in the hot springs for 30 minutes before cooling off. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you.

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

5. Khlang Cave

Khlang Cave has been named Asia's second most beautiful cave! The cost per person is 250 Baht, which includes a local guide, hard hats, and lamps.

It's a one-kilometre walk through a dark cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, bats, and large spiders (takes about 1 hour)

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

 6. Than Bok Khorani National Park

Than Bok Khorani National Park has beautiful waterfalls, underground caves, and limestone mountains. It's only a 12-minute drive from Khlang Cave, so plan on seeing both in one day.

The entrance fee is 300 Baht for adults and 150 Baht for children.

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7. Wat Kaew Korawararam

Wat Kaew Korawararam is a white Buddhist temple in the city of Krabi. There is no entry fee to visit. 

You can climb up a gold-lined dragon staircase to the top, where you will find a 2,500sqm terrace on which the temple itself stands.

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8. Raila

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Railay has some of the most scenic beaches in Krabi. From Ao Nang Beach, take a longtail boat taxi to West Railay Beach. You must wait until there are enough people to fill the boat before departing. There is no need to book ahead of time because there are numerous boat company stalls nearby.

There are three beaches: West Railay, East Railay and Phranang Beach. All have an incredible view of the surrounding limestone cliffs.

Apart from the beaches here is what else there is to do and see on Railay:

Rock Climbing: There are numerous companies on Railay that offer rock climbing, so there is no need to book ahead of time. Companies provide a range of courses for beginners to advanced climbers and provide private guides.

Princess Cave: Located on Phranang Beach is famous for its many phallic symbols used as offerings.

Diamond Cave: A well-lit cave that holds some incredible stalactite rock formations. It will only take around 5-10 minutes to walk around these caves. The entry fee is 100 Baht.

9. 7-Island Sunset Tour

If you enjoy swimming, snorkelling and stunning scenery then book the 7-Island Sunset Tour with GetYourGuide. 

The 7-Island Sunset Tour includes visiting: Ko Ma Tang Ming (snorkelling), Koh Tup, Koh More, Koh Kai (also known as Chicken Island for its chicken-shaped rock), Koh Yawasam (snorkelling), Koh Poda (BBQ dinner while watching the sunset) and Koh Range (swim with bioluminescent plankton).

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

10. Krabi Weekend Night Market

The Krabi Night Market is a must-see when visiting Krabi. There are more than 70 stalls selling a wide variety of foods and goods including clothing, accessories, shoes and much more! The market has live music which creates a lively atmosphere. 

The Krabi Night Market is only open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays to Sundays.

Photo by: Sneha Prasad Photography

With so much to see and do, it's no surprise that Krabi is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. It’s one of the most beautiful destinations in Thailand!