Krabi Town Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and where to stay in Krabi Town, Thailand. Learn the culture and customs, and how to stay safe while enjoying the breathtaking natural attractions and outdoor adventures.


A Complete Guide to Krabi Town, Thailand

Krabi Town, located in Krabi Province in Southern Thailand, is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back beach lifestyle of Thailand. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters, Krabi Town offers a range of outdoor adventures, breathtaking views, and cultural experiences that will leave you enchanted.

Introduction to Krabi Town

Krabi Town is a small provincial capital city that offers a mix of modern amenities and authentic Thai culture. With a population of just over 30,000 people, this charming town is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Visitors to Krabi Town will enjoy its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and a wealth of natural and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Krabi Town

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Krabi Town is steeped in history and culture, with several museums and historical sites that are worth visiting. Some of the top places to visit include:

1. Wat Kaew Korawaram

Wat Kaew Korawaram is the largest and most prominent temple in Krabi Town. Built in 1887, it is home to a large Buddha statue, an ornate prayer hall, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

2. Khao Khanab Nam Mountains

The Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are a pair of iconic limestone formations that stand on either side of the Krabi River. Visitors can take a boat ride to the mountains to explore the ancient caves and caves paintings.

3. Krabi Contemporary Art Museum

The Krabi Contemporary Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It features a range of contemporary Thai art exhibitions and is housed in a beautifully restored heritage building.

Natural Attractions of Krabi Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Krabi Town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with a range of outdoor adventures and scenic views that are sure to delight visitors. Some of the top places to visit include:

1. Railay Beach

Railay Beach is one of the most beautiful and picturesque beaches in Thailand. Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach offers crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and a range of water sports activities.

2. Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six beautiful islands that are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and stunning scenery. Visitors can take a day trip to the islands to enjoy snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing.

3. Emerald Pool

The Emerald Pool is a natural spring-fed pool located in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. The pool’s water is naturally blue-green, and visitors can swim in the pool while enjoying the lush surroundings and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Krabi Town

Krabi Town has a range of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top routes to explore include:

  • Khao Phanom Bencha National Park: This park offers several hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, caves, and scenic viewpoints.
  • Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam: This beautiful trail runs through a mangrove forest, and visitors can opt to rent a bike or kayak to explore the area further.
  • Krabi Cycling Tour: This guided tour takes visitors on a scenic bike ride through Krabi Town’s paddy fields, rural villages, and local temples.

Best Things to Do in Krabi Town: Activities and Tours

Krabi Town offers a range of activities and tours that are suitable for all ages and tastes. Some of the top things to do include:

  • Rock Climbing: Krabi Town is world-famous for its towering limestone cliffs, which make it an ideal destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.
  • Island Hopping: Visitors can take a boat tour of the nearby islands, including the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, and Koh Jum.
  • Thai Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Thai food in a fun and exciting environment with a hands-on cooking class.
  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Krabi Town’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving and snorkeling, with exotic marine life and colorful coral reefs to explore.

Week-Long Itinerary for Krabi Town

If you’re planning to spend a week in Krabi Town, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Krabi Town’s museums and historical sites, including the Contemporary Art Museum and Wat Kaew Korawaram.

Day 2: Take a boat tour to the Phi Phi Islands and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Day 3: Rock climbing at Railay Beach or Krabi’s limestone cliffs.

Day 4: Relax on Ao Nang Beach and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Day 5: Take a cooking class and learn to cook delicious Thai cuisine.

Day 6: Trek to Khao Phanom Bencha National Park and enjoy the waterfalls and stunning scenery.

Day 7: Visit the Emerald Pool and soak in the beautiful natural surroundings.

Food and Drink Scene of Krabi Town

Thai cuisine is world-renowned, and Krabi Town offers a range of delicious dishes that you won’t want to miss. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pad Thai: This classic Thai dish is made with stir-fried noodles, bean sprouts, peanuts, and chicken or shrimp.
  • Tom Yum Goong: A tangy, spicy soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and Thai spices.
  • Massaman Curry: A rich, mild curry made with potatoes, peanuts, and chicken or beef.
  • Som Tam: This spicy green papaya salad is a refreshing and zesty favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Local Beverages

  • Chang Beer: A popular Thai beer with a refreshing flavor.
  • Singha Beer: Another well-known Thai beer that is a favorite among locals.
  • Krabi Coffee: Krabi coffee beans are locally grown and roasted, and are a must-try for coffee lovers.

Where to Stay in Krabi Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Krabi Town has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Bananas Bungalows: This cozy resort is located on the edge of Krabi Town and offers beautiful views of the river and limestone cliffs.
  • Krabi Loma Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Krabi Town, close to local restaurants and shops.
  • The Cliff Ao Nang Resort: This picturesque resort is located on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea and offers stunning views and a range of amenities.

What to Buy in Krabi Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Krabi Town is home to several souvenir and local product shops where visitors can find unique items to bring home. Some of the top items to buy include:

  • Handmade Thai Silk: Krabi Town is home to several silk shops that offer beautiful, hand-woven silk fabrics.
  • Natural Skincare Products: Many vendors in Krabi Town sell locally made skincare products, such as soaps, lotions, and oils, made with natural ingredients.
  • Handmade Pottery and Ceramics: Krabi Town’s local markets have several stalls selling beautiful, handcrafted pottery and ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Krabi Town

Thai culture is known for its warmth, friendliness, and hospitality, and Krabi Town is no exception. Visitors to Krabi Town should be respectful of the local culture and customs, including:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or public places.
  • Remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.
  • Avoid touching someone’s head, as this is considered impolite.

Best Time to Visit Krabi Town

The best time to visit Krabi Town is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool. This is the peak season for tourism, so expect crowds at popular sites and higher prices for accommodations and tours. The rainy season, from May to October, is also a good time to visit for budget travelers, as prices are lower and crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Krabi Town

When visiting Krabi Town, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and support local businesses.
  • Keep your belongings close and secure when in crowded areas.

Don’t:

  • Touch someone’s head, as this is considered impolite.
  • Point your feet towards someone, as this is seen as disrespectful.
  • Disrespect religious sites or ceremonies.

Safety and Health

Safety in Krabi Town

Krabi Town is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should take precautions to avoid any potential risks. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.
  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Be vigilant when using public transportation.

Health in Krabi Town

Thailand is known for its spicy cuisine, and travelers should be prepared for the local food’s heat. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid food-borne illnesses, such as drinking bottled water and paying attention to food hygiene practices.

Getting to Krabi Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Krabi Town is easily accessible by plane, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

Airports Near Krabi Town

Krabi International Airport is the closest airport to Krabi Town, with direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Singapore.

Bus Stations Near Krabi Town

Krabi Bus Terminal is located about 4 km from Krabi Town’s city center, with regular buses traveling to and from Bangkok, Phuket, and Suratthani.

Other Options

Krabi Town is also accessible by train, with the nearest station located in Suratthani, about 150 km from Krabi Town.

How to Get Around in Krabi Town

Krabi Town can be easily explored on foot or by tuk-tuk. Songthaews, which are shared mini-buses that run regular routes, can also be used to travel around the town and nearby attractions. Visitors can also rent a car or motorbike to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Krabi Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Krabi Town is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas, with several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit. Some of the top places to go include:

  • Ao Nang Beach: Just 20 minutes from Krabi Town, this stunning beach offers clear water, pristine sand, and several water sports activities.
  • Koh Lanta: This beautiful island, located about 2 hours from Krabi Town, offers crystal-clear water, stunning beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Krabi Hot Springs: These natural hot springs, located about 40 minutes from Krabi Town, are the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Conclusion

Krabi Town is a destination that offers something for everyone, from natural beauty to cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, swimming, or exploring museums and historical sites, Krabi Town will not disappoint. With a range of accommodations, delicious food, and friendly locals, Krabi Town is a must-see destination for travelers to Thailand.

Krabi town and its distinctive karst topography Krabi town and its distinctive karst topography Krabi Town centre Krabi Town centre A nearby fishing village. A nearby fishing village. Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) Wat Kaew Korawaram temple Wat Kaew Korawaram temple Street vendor sells drinks in plastic bags Street vendor sells drinks in plastic bags