Krabi, a province on southern Thailand’s Andaman coast,
is an almost otherworldly region of labyrinthine archipelagos, where Islands
seem to erupt vertically out of the Sea and secluded Beaches are only
accessible by colorfully adorned long tail Boats. Krabi’s myriad of bays and
coves have sheltered pirates, merchants, and sea gypsies for thousands of years
and Archaeological evidence indicates that Krabi was originally inhabited as
early as 25,000 - 35,000 years ago!
With attractions including hot springs, a wildlife
sanctuary, sea caves, flourishing coral reefs and exotic marine life, limestone
cliffs that draw rock climbing enthusiasts from around the world, and national
Parks that include the island paradises of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, one could
easily spend weeks in Krabi and leave yearning for more.
If that wasn’t enough, Krabi features some of the most
photogenic sunsets in Thailand, often accompanied by spectacular displays of
cloud to cloud lightning, that are best enjoyed from a beachside bar or
Restaurant.
Meanwhile, with all the tourists spread out among various
beaches and islands, life goes on in Krabi Town, the somewhat sleepy provincial
capital. Surprisingly few tourists spend time in the charming riverside town,
whose hilly streets feature a number of cozy cafes and inexpensive and
authentic Thai cuisine is served at an outdoor, riverside evening market.
“Town” to most visitors is Ao Nang, a seaside strip of
guesthouses, hotels, bars, restaurants, and Souvenir shops that continues to
grow as tourist arrivals increase, now spreading north into Noppharat Thara,
whose quiet, shady beach is part of the national park that includes the Phi Phi
Islands. Ao Nang is the major launching point for boat trips to nearby islands
and the isolated beaches of Phra Nang Cape, where the famous former hippie
enclave of Railey Beach is located.
Krabi is famous for its scenic view and breathtaking
beaches and islands. Its coral reef vistas are also one of the world’s most
beautiful, which makes the city a great spot for coral diving.
Natural attractions of Krabi include Noppharat Thara Beach
National Park, Koh Phi Phi, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Koh Lanta, Khao
Khanap Nam (the Twin Mountains), railay beach, Koh Poda, Ao Nang, Koh Ngai, Ao
Maya, Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam, Emerald Pool, and Khlong Thom Hot Spring
Waterfall.
Krabi also provides you with great Shopping
venues such as Maharaj Walking Street (Friday-Sunday market from 5.00 – 10.00
pm) and Chao Fah Pier night market (daily market from 5.00 pm – 12.30 am).