The Krabi Rainforest Tour is the perfect tour for you if:

• you want to take a break from sea and sun
• you think that Krabi has more to offer than its beaches and corals
• you want to discover those splendid forests that you admired from the plane when you landed

The Krabi Rainforest Tour is a full-day excursion which takes participants to some of the most spectacular areas of the Krabi province, which is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

For this tour we contracted Krabi Jungle Tour, and we were kindly taken care by Ms. Prae, a nice young local guide who managed the itinerary and marked the rhythm of the day with expertise and personality.

The visit started with a stop at the Tiger Cave Temple (in Thai language: Wat Tham Seua), one of the most respected places of worship in the whole of southern Thailand, founded in 1975 by the Venerable Monk Chammnian Silsetto. During one of his moments of meditation in the area, the monk noticed a tiger roaming around and discovered she lived in one of the innumerable surrounding caves. Hence the name of the temple.

Tigers are no longer roaming around Krabi, of course, but the feeling stays, and above all stays the natural frame to the temple made of caves, valleys, trees dating back hundreds of years and inaccessible mountains. The name of the area where the religious complex stands is Kiriwong Valley; the deity who created this valley must have been particularly inspired and generous when she donated this exceptional corner of nature to the world.

These mountains may be inaccessible, but the patience and devotion of the monks and of those who materially helped them build a stairway of 1237 steps made at least one of those mountains accessible. These hard steps take visitors to a height of about 280 meters, where a statue of the Buddha dominates and watches over the plains below, offering the sweating faithful and the courageous tourists who try their hand at this ascent an absolutely unique experience.

The visit to the Tiger Cave Temple starts at the base of the mountain, where the guide dispenses advice and recommendations to those in the group who decide to tackle the climb. Naturally, I preferred to avoid the undertaking, delegating to my friend Johanna, a twenty-year-old blogger from Estonia eager to take up the challenge, the thankless task of telling me the details.

After all, the area at the foot of the mountain is equally full of interesting ideas, and my time spent wandering in the lower part of the temple was not boring at all. I happily observed monks and statues of all kinds, among which, framed by a in Chinese style building, a beautiful representation of Kwan Yin, the goddess of mercy.

But the real attraction of the temple, both for those who climb up and those who don’t, are the incredible number of monkeys that descend from the slopes of the mountain in the hope of obtaining food from tourists, or to steal anything that may be of interest to them. Their acrobatics, their almost-human attitudes, their irreverence in climbing or placing their paws on any divinity – as they are naturally oblivious to any form of religious respect – are an irresistible attraction for any visitor who does not hesitate to challenge their aggressiveness and risks more than he’s allowed to for a few extra photos.

Before rejoining the survivors from the staircase climb, there is still enough time to go and visit the part of the temple where the monks meet and bless the postulants by sprinkling them with water, accompanying the gesture with chanting prayers. Entering the building where the meetings take place, one immediately notices that one of the walls, decorated with innumerable images of the Buddha in different sizes and in poses that symbolise the most significant moments of his life, is built right by the side of the mountain, giving the impression that the monks’ ceremony takes place inside a cave

But here return the ‘climbers’, sporting red faces marked by fatigue, yet smiling and apparently satisfied. “It was worth it” says Johanna, “although after the first 500 steps, the rise of the steps get higher and it gets really tiring. Of course, the views you get from the top compensate for the sacrifice”. “Never again” says someone else decisively, but I can clearly notice an exhausted expression of pride at having made it in her.

The tour continues towards the first relaxing stop of the day, for the joy of those who have climbed the mountain. After about an hour by minivan we reach the Hot Springs: a stream of hot water – 37/40 degrees – the flow of which, over the years, has smoothed the rocks to form comfortable natural pools, flows through the forest and ends into a larger river below.

The stream originates from underground springs of volcanic origin; it is rich in mineral substances and has therapeutic properties, though these have not been scientifically proven. However, the fact remains that abandoning yourself to the warmth of these waters, with your head resting on the edge and letting the flow caress your body, is in itself a healthy and relaxing experience, one we take advantage of without hesitation.

The pools slope down forming different levels, allowing the water to descend in tiny waterfalls, and the sense of pleasure that one feels in letting the limbs restore can hardly be explained in words. You need to try it.

Artificial hot water pools have recently been added to allow visitors to bathe even when the number of them exceeds the capacity of the natural pools. The idea is certainly welcome, but the sensation is absolutely not comparable to that of immersing yourself in the shade of the forest in a warm embrace with nature.

Warm and relaxed, we continue the tour to reach the restaurant of the Morakot Resort, a few minutes away from the Emerald Pool. Lunch is a light meal of Thai and international cuisine. The guide had previously enquired about any special needs, and upon our arrival everything had already been prepared.

Eventually we reach the entrance to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, the last stop of the excursion where, in a clearing that can be reached after about an hour’s walk, we find the Emerald Pool, so called for the amazing colour of its water.

To reach the lake you can take two different paths: a shorter one, of about 800 meters, which offers few points of interest other than the shade of the surrounding trees; and a longer one of about 1200 meters which winds along a concrete walkway and is bordered by an exceptional variety of tropical plants. This is of course the preferred one, and along it you can admire a network of streams and lakes that anticipate the relief of a refreshing bath.

Once in sight of the Emerald Pool, the clear waters of the lake become a temptation that is impossible to resist. I personally cannot resist and, without hesitation, I enter the water and once again let nature take care of me. And I totally ignore the guide that in the mean time explains to the rest of the group how to get to an equally spectacular blue pool 600 metres away.

There is a reason of course: I had already been to the blue pool in the past, and the image of an intensely blue water that calls you like Ulysses’ sirens coupled with a swimming ban due to quicksands was ultimately more a torture than an eye candy.

I therefore abandon myself to the waters of the Emerald Pool, and I am totally estranged from any thought, almost eager to stay in there forever. The fresh waters of the lake flow in unison with the merciless time that ticks and that eventually reaches the guide’s call to end the tour, which strikes me as a surprise. Inflexible Ms. Prae call us to order, and reluctantly we set off again towards the real world.

A WORD OF ADVICE

At the start of the tour:

Inform the guide of any food intolerances or special needs

Tiger Cave Temple

• While the temple apparently seems somewhat informal, it is still a sacred place; it is therefore necessary to wear appropriately respectful clothing. Shoulders and legs must be covered. For the climb up the mountain, on the other hand, looser clothing is permitted.
• The climb up the mountain is really tiring and challenging. It is advisable to evaluate one’s own abilities well before tackling it, deciding above all if one believes one can complete it within the times set by the guide.
• Monkeys can turn aggressive and, not to forget, they are wild animals. It is advisable to avoid approaching them, and above all to keep away children.

Hot Spring

• Prolonged immersion is not recommended, especially for those with pressure problems. It is better not to stay in the pools for a period exceeding twenty minutes at a time.

Emerald Pool

• The edges of the Emerald Pool are particularly slippery. Maximum attention is recommended when entering the pond.

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto) 

The post Krabi Rainforest Tour appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Located a few km from Krabi Town center, the karst outcrops belonging to the Khao Phanom Bencha mountain range are home to one of the most sacred sites in the South of Thailand. The spectacular Tiger Cave Temple, or Wat Tham Seua, is so-called because a tiger once lived in the cave that is today the monastery’s main hall.

Follow Asian Itinerary and Fantasia Asia as, split into two groups, visit Wat Tham Seua.

The post TRIP TO WAT THAM SEUA appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Pluto and Thomas discuss the plan of the day

Wat Tham Seua is one of southern Thailand’s most famous and interesting forest temples. Mainly popular for the strenuous hike to the top of the karst where a huge Buddha statue is located, requiring the climbing of 1260 steep steps, Wat Tham Seua temple complex also hosts a deep natural amphitheater entirely enclosed by towering limestone formations, recently named ‘Wonderland’.

Wonderland is accessible through a secondary stairway of about 100 steps that starts at the far end of the main temple lane, right by the temple and statue of goddess Khuan Yin. This stairway takes those who are willing to make the effort to Krabi’s rarest of all features: a pocket of primary lowland forest. This circular rocky basin enclosed by high cliffs has the feel of a hidden word untouched by time and man.

This is of course not the case. Several monks live and worship in a maze of natural caves in this overgrown jungle valley, and Wonderland offers some fascinating features worthy of a visit even for those who are not religiously inclined. The first feature you will encounter in your path, not far from the descending steps, is the main cave amphitheater where a big Buddha statue and other Buddha images are set against the karst wall and fronted by a gleaming marble floor on which worshipers and monks prostrate themselves at set times of the day. Amongst the several items displayed by the sides of the Buddha are a real human skeleton enclosed inside a glass case and some bizarre photos of internal organs and split cadavers, as well as several clocks slowly tick away the time. These are supposed to reinforce the temporary nature of the body and help the monks focus on more spiritual matters, reminding them that time passes and that everything today will become nothing tomorrow.

One of the monks kutis

Wonderland’s circular walking track starts here, and soon enough you will reach several monks’ kutis (small houses or huts where forest monks live); some are little shacks that look more like oriental garden sheds, others are rock holes barely big enough to lie down in. Most are meticulously landscaped on the outside with potted plants, sacred stones, and other eclectic adornments.

Next, you will find dozens of small cave chambers used by monks to meditate, some containing small effigies and images of the Buddha. For a proper exploration, you can turn on and off lights switches as you pass from one chamber to the next, admiring stalactites hanging from the caves’ ceilings and simple worshipping corners.

One of monk’s cemented holes in the mountain where they spend some of their ascetic time

From there, just follow the nature trail that will take you on a journey to ancient times beneath huge seventy-meters-high limestone outcrops that dwarf the sky. This hidden area of untouched virgin forest in the past could only be entered by scaling the almost sheer rocking face hand over hand, clinging to the vines that draped it.

For a naturalist, the site is a microcosm of Krabi’s former glory. Primeval trees cluster silently together, their great trunks supporting the jungle canopy. The first marvel you will encounter is a tree adorned in sacred cloth that is reputed to have the largest flared root base of any tree remaining in Thailand. Further along the path there are a number of other magnificent trees to be seen, and placed discreetly here and there amongst the trees are Thai script signs that remind monks and spiritually-seeking visitors, once again, that everything is indeed nothing.

The caves are in sight

Thanks to the completely walled-in nature of this little forest reserve, it was spared from logging. Plus, when the first monks arrived here to set up a monastery they ordained the largest trees, thereby thwarting any cutting. Fauna is therefore present but limited to leaf monkeys, songbirds, and monitor lizards that still thrive here. The area is far too small and too detached from the national park to support any larger animals.

Done without stops, Wonderland hike should take about 45 minutes. Add a few photo-taking sessions and a couple of rest stops, and the hike becomes the perfect activity for a full-morning stroll amongst nature and culture. 

TIPS

Do not hike without a stock of water. The air is humid and dehydration will soon appear if you do not keep up the drinking. Leave early in the morning and do the hike before the heat rises.

Photo-opportunities abound, bring plenty of memory and batteries for your camera.

At Wat Tham Seua the feeling is casual but the site is holy and should be respected: dress appropriately. 

Several items are displayed by the sides of the Buddha

HOW TO REACH: take a taxi or motor-taxi from Krabi town; if self-driving, take the way to the airport and turn left at the Wat Tham Seua traffic light, a few hundred meters before Big C complex. 

To read Asian Itinerary and Fantasia Asia account of the Wat Tham Seua trek, click HERE

To watch our video on the trek, click on this Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KniCVYaGvW8 

The post Wat Tham Seua Wonderland hike appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Located a few km from Krabi Town center, the karst outcrops belonging to the Khao Phanom Bencha mountain range are home to one of the most sacred sites in the South of Thailand. The spectacular Tiger Cave Temple, or

The amazing vegetation surrounding the temple karst

Wat Tham Seua, is so-called because a tiger once lived in the cave that is today the monastery’s main hall.

Although most of the buildings are in a natural forest park accessible by any vehicle, the most stunning construction is at the end of a rather large stairway taking you upwards 1260 steps, so to fully enjoy the marvels of the Wat Tham Seua surroundings, one must be willing to embark in an extra challenge: a climbing journey to the top of its mountain. And this is exactly what Fantasia Asia team and I did on a warm winter morning.

Upon our arrival at the Wat Tham Seua parking lot, at 6 am in the morning, we quickly explored the main temple at ground level before embarking on our trek. 

A red replica of the Emerald Buddha

The steps are 1260, and this is reminded to you right away by banners and post at the bottom of the karst hill. We started our ascent with boosted energy and motivation, and since I have done this trek a number of times, let me warn you straight away about a few important details:

– There is a tendency to climb the first hundreds of steps too fast; you risk overtiring yourself and to find the rest of the climb strenuous

– There are 1260 steps, doubling to over 2500 for the round trip. None of them of the same height or width, so do not assume you have mastered your pace and do not forget about watching out your steps; should you slip or misplace your foot, the fall can have tragic consequences. 

The massive Buddha statue sitting cross-legged and receiving a gentle breeze at Wat Tham Seua

– At every landing, a column is marked with the number of steps climbed so far. Checking on them regularly can be a mistake: they will surely give you a boost of energy at the beginning when the numbers roll fast, but they can turn a bit depressing later on when you seem to be near the top and this number is so painfully slow to increase.

– Families of hungry monkeys populate the starting section of the climb (and the ending), and they are known to be great thieves: they will either try to grab a snack or a water bottle from your hands or rucksack (and they can fight for it) or they may turn naughty and try to steal your camera, your hat or your phone. Do carry a stick and do not show food. Do protect your belonging.

– Trekkers on this track will sweat, and their skin will attract mosquitoes. Either keep on the move or accept a few bites every time you stop for a break. 

Buddha statues waiting for the sun to appear

We tackled this trek with fitness and nature in mind, and we tried to fully admire the marvelous landscape that kept changing around us as we climbed: deep gorges covered by diverse vegetation that changes with the altitude and various species of birds that freely fly in the sky observing us from high above. Having to climb those steps sounds like a very daunting task, but the trick is to take your time to walk and stop along the climb up and admire the view. It is definitely not a race, and the average time needed to reach the top is about 1 hour to 1.5 hours with stops along the way, and about half that time to walk back down.

Reaching the top and seeing the stupa for the first time gives quite a sense of rewarding. We washed our faces in the fountain right at the entrance, took off our shoes in sign of respect for a sacred area, and climbed the few steps to the higher floor, where we admired stunning 360 degrees views of the surrounding countryside, of Krabi Town and of the Andaman Sea.

First sections were average, the hardship came later

We took a stroll around the small area and enjoyed the presence of a massive Buddha statue sitting cross-legged and receiving the gentle breeze that usually blows in the summit. To the West, the town and the coastal area of Krabi province were at our feet. Further, we saw mangrove forests surrounding rivers that mix with the sea, the Saitai Massif of karst mountains, expanses of pineapple fields, and the different greens of palm plantations. 

Walking North, we came across what is known as a ‘Buddha footprint’ embedded in the rock, and past that, a few steps up, a sacred sala, or gazebo, from where we had a clear view of the Khao Phanom Bencha mountain and its range. Time flew as we marveled at all those beauties, and soon it started to feel quite hot, and our bellies claimed some food. It was time to make our way down. 

Statue of hermit Rusee

This is perhaps the worst of the trek. Do not underestimate your way back, which depends on your knees and calves, strained under the weight of your body for 1.260 steps! It is essential to pay attention to where you place your feet, keep your knees flexible, do not go too fast and concentrate on the steps, and all will go well. We did not make too many stops and, with the right time and attention, made it down safely. This trek was indeed a healthful start of the day, and we drove towards a deserved breakfast. 

The enjoyment of this trek will depend on you physical shape, and even if you are in good shape, the heat and humidity may make it a difficult hike. Having said that, I believe everyone should attempt it, kids, adults and aged persons too; this trip is definitely worth the effort and you will experience the many positive emotions this climb has made us feel.

TIPS

I am kissed by the first rays of the sun

Do not attempt the climb without a stock of water bottles. The air is humid, the climb hard and long, and dehydration will soon appear if you do not keep up the drinking. Filtered water is available at the top for drinking and refilling your bottle. 

Every landing is equipped by a rubbish bin geared up with anti-monkeys net: use them!

Leave early in the morning and do the trek up before the heat rises.

Consider a pre-dawn climb to watch the sunrise or a sunset ascent (especially on a full moon), which are becoming popular.

prayers bells

At Wat Tham Seua the feeling is casual but the site is holy and should be respected: dress appropriately. 

HOW TO REACH: take a taxi or motor-taxi from Krabi Town; if self-driving, take the way to the airport and turn left at the Wat Tham Seua traffic light, a few hundred meters before Big C complex. 

To watch our video on the trek, click on this Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KniCVYaGvW8 

The post WAT THAM SEUA Trek appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Limestone is part of the core foundation on which most of the islands and coastal inlands of Southern Thailand are based, and this base provides the unique “look and feel” of the area. In addition to towering natural sculptures that are beloved by rock climbers, these same limestone formations also provide another type of outdoor adventure: caves exploration!

One of Krabi amazing caves

For those that love the sublime and subterranean atmosphere of caves, Krabi offers many opportunities to explore the underside of mother earth in dozens of locations, approached from both the shore on kayak or canoe, or by short inland treks.

Within many of the limestone caves found near Krabi, you can also find collapsed caverns called “hongs.” These hongs offer an excellent advantage point to see the miracles of nature and age, as these timeless spaces were carved by wind and sea over the ages, and many of these tunnels and caverns contain both natural beauty as well as the mark of man. For example, prehistoric humans painted many of these limestone portals, and here they have left their mark in pictograms, shards of pottery and ancient stone tools.

Excavation of many of these mysterious limestone sites is ongoing, and a museum has been established just southeast of Krabi Town that contains exhibits full of ceramics and bronze tools from an era now gone by. Even today, these caves hold a place in contemporary Thai culture, as many locals believe that certain caves hold the spirits of gods and goddesses, and even in this modern age, they are worshipped with all the respect they were given hundreds or thousands of years ago.

To get started in your own explorations, here is some information about the most popular of caves in the area, and some tips on making your cave adventures memorable ones:

Khao Khanab Nam

Caves in Khao Khanap Nam

These two limestone hills mark the province in which Krabi Town is located, and can be seen from most vantage points in town. These two 100-meter towers also mark the Maenam River that flows between them. The right-side tower entombs a cave worth visiting, and there are two entrances: one with an extremely steep walkway and the other suitable for children and the elderly to use. Here you will find well-made steps, and within 10 minutes or so these steps will lead you to the cave entrance. The best way to get to the site is to take a longboat from the town pier, and within 15 minutes you will be there.

Tham Sadet

This cave can be found by traveling just 7 kms from Krabi Town along Highway 4034, and is located in Ban Nong Kok, Tambon Sai Thai. The significance of this cave is in the fact it has earned the royal title of “Sadet,” indicating the site has been bestowed by royalty. In 1901, the then prince (King Rama VI) visited the cave to give it this title. The cave interior is very beautiful, and filled with many interesting stalactites and stalagmites.

Wat Tham Sua (The Tiger Cave)

Wat Than Seua caves

This is probably the most famous of caves in the area and can be found just 9 kms from Krabi Town. The cave is actually attached to a “working” temple where monks use the cave during their daily ritual ceremonies. The cave gets its name from what looks like fossilized tiger prints found along parts of the stone floor. In addition to the cave filled with golden Buddha‘s and other statues, there is a steep climb to be made to see the “footprint of the Buddha” – after ascending 1,272 steps to the top of the limestone tower. Once at the summit, you will be rewarded with an unobstructed view of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding countryside.

Tham Phi Hua To

This large cave is known as the “Big-headed Ghost Cave,” and was used as a ceremonial burial site some 3,000 years ago. You can still see some of the prehistoric paintings on the cave ceiling, and from the outside, the cave is indeed a bit scary, as it’s mouth does resemble a large face. Inside the cave, there are more likenesses in the form of rocks shaped like a dragon and crocodile head. Tham Phi Hua To is located in the Ao Luk District, and can be reached by long tail boat or canoe from the Bor Thor Jetty.

OTHER SPECTACULAR CAVES OF NORTHERN KRABI PROVINCE 

THAM PHRA: This is the site of the Kao Phra Suhn Yah Tah Rham Meditation Center. It is about 2 kilometers from the district offices of Ao Luk. Inside the cave is a Buddhist effigy of great antiquity. This has two other statues of equal size flanking it placed at a later date, and the base is surrounded with smaller wooden figures.

THAM PHET: Located 3 kilometers from the intersection at Ao Luk Nua market. The cave’s front has Buddhist statues and the cave walls are of a stone that reflects light with the same dazzling beauty as diamond, hence the name; Pet is Thai for diamond. To visit the cave, procure a guide from the Tarnboke Korani National Park and be sure to bring a flashlight or torch.

THAM LOD NUA – THAM LOD TAI: This lies 2 kilometers distant from the district offices on the Ao Luk–Laem Sak road near the watercourse of Klong Ta Prahng. There are two caves:

* Tham Lod Nua: This beautiful cave winds back on itself like an elbow.

* Tham Lod Tai: This is a limestone tunnel longer and narrower than one of the same name in Phang-nga Bay. The cave mouth has stalactites and stalagmites and a boulder shaped like the quarter moon lying on its side. Visit this cave when the water is low by boarding a longtail boat at Bor Tor Pier; the journey takes only 10 minutes.

Tham Sadet

THAM CHAO LEY: This is west of Laem Sak Cape in a beautiful bay surrounding with limestone mountains. Inside are stalactites and stalagmites, as well as well as prehistoric paintings of people, animals, and geometric designs. These paintings are thought to be somewhat more recent than those found in Tham Pi Hua Toh cave. To Visit the cave, take a regularly scheduled boat from the Sapan Pla of Fishing Pier at Laem Sak Cape: travel time is about 15 minutes.

KHAO GAROS: Some caves in this compound contain prehistoric paintings of men and animals, and can be visited by boat from Laem Sak in Amphoe Ao Luk.

THAM SONG PI NONG or THAM POON NEUA TAI: lies west of Tham Pi Hua Toh Cave. Inside were found human skeletal remains, pottery, earrings, and bronze bracelets.

Tham Phi Hua To strange pictorial

THAM HUA GALOHK NAI or THAM BUHN MAHK: This is only one hundred meters from Tham Pi Hua Toh cave. It was discovered by a local villager named Bang Mahk. It is a large, dark cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. A large number of prehistoric pottery shards were found in layers on the cave wall outcropping near the entrance. These have distinctive line designs, are thicker and coarser than those found elsewhere.

THAM TOH LUANG: Located in Ban Hohp, Tambon Klong Hin. This cave has three levels, each of which abounds in stalactites and stalagmites. Some resemble Buddhist monks, others look like legendary multi headed serpents. Here stayed Jao Por Toh Luang, after whom the cave took its name.

Mystical atmosphere inside ancient caves in Krabi

THAM SEUA NOI: This cave is 2 kilometers distant from Hua Galohk cave in Ban Bor Thor and is the site of a monastery and meditation centre; the front is formed by a broad outcropping in the hill. The area outside is peaceful and quiet; inside, the cave is beautiful. Many old pottery remains have been found here.

THAM SEUA NOK or THAM TEHP NIMIT: This cave houses the Nimit Monastery; a tunnel below the cave lets sea water enter so the walls are thick large, dark cave, and o to the side of that another fifty meters is Orahan Cave, which has more strangely shaped stalactites and stalagmites than anywhere else. They shine like lights and are stunning.

CAVE NEWS 

North Krabi caves map

Located in Huay Namkaew village in Khao Panom, Tham Wimarnmek in Krabi is a newly discovered cave that the local government is preparing to open as an eco- tourism site to generate revenue for residents. The cave houses rooms of 1km wide and 60mt high that can easily accommodate 800 people. Significant is the presence of amazing stalactites and stalagmites, as well as rock formation shaped like hearts, lions and elephants. Other caves comprised in the same mountain are Tham Petch and Tham Hanumarn. The new discovery follows the local Thai government and villagers’ survey for an eco-tourism site in this mountain side village.

To build up your ideal itinerary in Krabi, use the world’s smartest trip planner. CLICK HERE !

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Krabi.guide introduces you to a hidden Thai gem still not yet fully known, as a destination, within the tourist world. This website will be useful, whether you are at your first experience as a tourist or an expert traveler, to plan your trip to Krabi with the help of someone who really knows this place.

Wat Tham Seua, Krabi

We, the team of Krabi.guide, are here to share with all of you our experience in the world of traveling in Thailand, which spans over twenty long years. Our wish is for you to get the best from your time in Krabi and to return home with the clear sensation to have wisely spent your holiday in one of the most attractive location in “The Kingdom of Smile”. In a few words, this is why Krabi.guide exists.

In Krabi.guide we talk about Krabi: of its antiquity; of its temples, crushed between rocks and forests, looking like mausoleums dedicated to nature. We talk

sunset in Krabi

about Krabi‘s people and the ethnic groups that make up the resident population, groups that culturally enrich it with a constant mingling of customs, traditions, religions, which shows to the world that it is possible to live together.

Here we talk about Krabi‘s cuisine, rich in spices and herbs; the markets, riots of colors, studded with fruit, fish and all wares. We talk about Krabi‘s islands: the white sandy beach, the coral reefs, the caves, the mangroves and the karsts formations rising majestic from the sea. Krabi is not sufficiently known to the world of tourism and the fame it enjoys is far below the one that it actually deserves.

Krabi riverways from top

Krabi.guide is here to try to fill this gap. Our aim is to present Krabi‘s as an intriguing and inspirational place. To introduce you, day by day, this small eastern corner of the world which we feel part of; to suggest a viable alternative to those who have different needs from the lights of the night, although desiring an active holiday. Sea, nature, culture, relaxation. These are the ingredients that Krabi‘s province offers so that visitors can cool off from their everyday life.

HERE ARE SOME GOOD REASONS…To choose us as your Krabi‘s advisors.

+ 1000 Customers

the black crab, Pu dam, Krabi town

Along our twenty-years’ experience in Southern Thailand tourism, mostly in Krabi‘s, we have been supporting more than 1000 customers per year during their holiday, customers proceeding from every corner of the world.

+100 Hotels

We have phisically inspected more than 100 hotels and guesthouses in Krabi‘s province, in order to match the right hotel to the right people. We have also been on all the tours that we propose. Our knowledge is at your service. Our knowledge is at your service.

H24 Support

Our staff will visit you upon your arrival at the hotel to provide you all the necessary information for your holiday. We will provide you a complete assistance on call, with a 24 hours Emergency support.

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Although in Krabi‘s there is a limited number of MultiLanguage licenced guides, we are able to offer our assistance in English, Thai, Italian, Spanish and Malay.

What are you waiting for? Log onto Krabi.guide and find out more!

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A tour into Ao Luk province in the north of Krabi region, Thailand, uncovers a wonderful escape to the tourism trap. Northern treasures at Ao Luk include activities like swimming, kayaking, trekking and cycling; it’s all there for you to enjoy it, and in a ‘green way’.

It was with great pleasure that I accepted the invitation to spend a couple of days with Khun Gift and with members of one of the Ao Luk Community Based Tourism (CBT), the one at Tham Seua Noi village. We had been out with them previously to visit Khao Garos Mountain, and a new exciting adventure was what we expected for this two-days trip.

One of Ao Luk northern treasures

DAY 1

The center point of Ao Luk district is the Tharnboke Koranee National Park, which can be easily reached by road from Krabi Town and Ao Nang respectively in about 45 minutes. Upon our arrival at Raipreda Homestay, the resort that would provide our team with accommodation, we were welcomed with traditional snacks like sticky rice and beans on banana leaves, and a nice hot coffee. After a chat with affable Khun Gift and with her father Khun Uray, one of CBT’s official explorers and discoverers, we got to choose our mountain bikes for the afternoon activity.

Cycling around the Tham Seua community was a marvelous experience. We followed our group leaders along a paved road before taking a detour through a dirt track to reach Tham Seua Noi cave, situated inside a broad limestone outcrop. This cave is home to a monastery and meditation center, the Wat Tham Seua Noi, where a couple of monks were doing their cleaning chores. We passed a big and nicely decorated statue of Buddha and walked on to a narrow tunnel to reach a small underground pond where the air was stale and humid. The guide pointed his torch to the far end of the cave to observe hundreds of bats flying in the hollow cavity not far from us. It was spooky, but interesting indeed.

By bike through rubber plantations

We then continued our cycling tour, pedaling through rice fields and rubber and palm oil plantations along hilly tracks, avoiding holes, negotiating steep climbs, and breaking hard during descents until we reached a dead-end where we had to stop, leave our bikes and proceed on foot. Five minutes later we arrived at what resembled a small and dried-up lake in the midst of forested lowland, surrounded by a man-made platform on stilts that encircled the whole area. This pond had a sand floor that was covered by a thin layer of water. As we looked to the murky waters, the guides clapped their hands vigorously, and the sand reacted by bubbling up and releasing water from underground. This was a phenomenon I had never seen. I initially thought it was a hot spring, but the water was cold. We all had so much fun making as much noise as we could and watching the sand bubbling up more and more. Someone stuck a wood stick into the sand, which was immediately pushed out by the sand mass. The guides reassured me these are not quicksand so I leaned on the raised platform and stuck a whole forearm inside the sand, only to feel a mix of sand and water bubbling up around it. No one could explain to me what exactly was causing that, though one of the guys told me we were connecting with mother earth’s forces of the underground… The locals were told about this place by the elders, who recommended that nobody dared to step on the ground there, so there is an aura of mystery and respect surrounding the place they have come to call Nam Pud Prop Mue – or ‘water that splutters at hand clapping’. I promised myself to later make a Google search on the subject.

Walking through caves

The rest of the cycling tour took us to the end of the paved lane, where a river separates the provinces of Krabi and Phang Nga. On the way back, the fittest of the team followed the guide to an arduous trek to the base of one of the limestone karsts where, partly hidden by thick jungle, a massive group of caves unveiled. These caves were recently discovered by a member of the community, and we were practically the first foreigners to explore the area. There was no sign of human passage; we climbed a steep path to reach the cave upper level where, torches lit, we ventured inside total darkness. A narrow passage developed into a wide cave with lots of stalactites and stalagmites, alive and dripping in the never-ending process of change inside these unique monoliths where once an ancient civilization lived. I was one of the last to turn back and got to explore a good kilometer of the cave with one of the guides, passing through areas as narrow as my body, by several little calcified water deposits. The guide told me we could be going for ages inside that maze, and that there was a real danger of losing the way if we were not careful to remember from what side we had come from. Not an easy task, I realized on the way back, since all rocks looked the same and totally different from what they had looked on the way in.

We arrived back at Raipreda Homestay at sunset, dropped the bicycles, showered in the outdoor bathrooms of our bungalows, and joined the group for a lovely dinner and to discuss the itinerary for the day after. Sleep came fast that night, at the sound of cicadas and birds…

DAY 2

The geothermal beach at Hat Sai Rawn

The alarm clock went off at 5 am. Why are we waking up so early? Where am I? – I wondered. I looked out in the dark from my elevated terrace and saw pick-up trucks getting organized in the parking area below. I remembered where I was, and what we were doing. We were off to another unusual experience. All the group amassed at the back of one of the pick-up trucks and enjoyed the drive and the chill morning air. At the small pier by the river, we boarded a longtail boat and headed off upriver, only to get off, 10 minutes later, in an unassuming beach at the side of a foggy mangrove forest that did not look anything special at first glance. The river water was cold when we got off the boat, but on the way to the shore, we realized there was something different. The water under our feet was warmer in some places, and warm was also the sand we stepped on. What initially had looked like morning mist were in fact the vapors from hot river water at this geothermal beach named Hat Sai Rawn. It was an amazing feeling and we soon learned to step away from areas where the sand was way too hot. There was the real danger of getting seriously burnt as our bodies tended to sink in the hot sand.

The guides set tables and chairs and prepared coffee, while the Thai women who accompanied us on the trip placed bamboo beds on the riverbed and got ready to give us a therapeutic mud mask. The sun was rising fast and the river water was getting hotter and hotter, boiling in some places, and the sand nearby was unbearably hot. The supposed therapeutic qualities of hot sand, and in particular of black sand, continue to be exploited around the world. Hot spring therapy or hot sand spa is quite popular in Japan and is called Arenation: hot sand is applied, sprinkled upon an individual, or walked on. This hot sand mud can be used as a mudpack for a massage or for facials. Once again I was surprised to find this phenomenon here in Ao Luk since it is normally found in areas that sit right on a volcanic belt, which as far as I knew was not the case for this area.

kayaking at Bor Thor

By 7.30 am we were back at Raipreda Homestay where we had just enough time for breakfast before leaving for the last leg of the adventure: paddling a kayak at picturesque Bor Thor. Located on the banks of the Bring River, a mangrove-lined saltwater river that winds through the peaceful countryside until it finally empties into Phang Nga, Bor Thor maze of mangrove canals are best explored by kayak. The karst scenery that the area is so famous for provided the caves we paddled to and through: Tam Lod Nua, the ‘cave passing through’; Tam Lod Thai, a cave that winds its way past beautiful stalactites and leads to a stunning lagoon known as Tham Khao Wong; and Tham Pee Hua Toh or ‘Big Head Ghost Cave’, a huge chamber accessible only on foot where various paintings or picto-glyphs on the cave walls from a civilization that lived here 3,000 years ago offer a fascinating glimpse into Krabi’s rich cultural past.

Raipreeda Homestay

We ended our tour with a lovely Thai lunch and a chat with Khun Gift to gather information about CBT and Raipreeda Homestay, as well as to recap all the activities done in the short span of two days. We loved the northern treasures at Ao Luk, and so will you. Visit this area if you have the chance, it will not disappoint your thirst for adventure.

For a stay at Raipreda Homestay check on http://www.raipreda-homestay.com/ and to book Ao Luk Community Based Network (CBT) tours, browse http://www.raipreda-homestay.com/index.php/en/package-tour/boattour

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