Krabi’s Trivia
The 132 islands offshore Thailand in the Andaman Sea fall under Krabi’s jurisdiction. The province covers a total area of 4,709 square of kilometres.
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Several of those islands such as the Lanta Islands, Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Jum, are actually inhabited. The province itself is split into eight administrative districts, called ampur in Thai: Ao Luk; Plai Praya; Muang (covering Ao Nang, Railay, Krabi Town, Klong Muang and the Phi Phi Islands); Neua Klong; Klong Thom; Khao Phanom; Lam Tup and Koh Lanta.
Krabi’s population is currently around 395,000 people, of which the majority are Muslims. Weather-wise, the ideal time to visit Krabi is in late January and February, when you will enjoy nearby perfect conditions: calm glassy seas, clear blue skies, moderate temperatures and only a tiny chance of shower burst. By visiting during this period, you also avoid the peak season, thus not having to contend with throngs of people and higher accommodation prices, unlike in November and December.
As a matter of fact, some people prefer to visit Krabi during rainy season, despite the risk of having to deal with the rain and tropical storms because it is cooler, cheaper and less crowded – it is even possible that you may have the whole island to yourself! Essentially, travellers are recommended to slow down to get the real feel of this region in Southern Thailand.
If you are going to Krabi for the very first time, it is recommended that you stay in Ao Nang, about an hour’s drive from Krabi town, which in itself has nothing much to offer except for the night market. Ao Nang on the other hand is situated by the beach and has easy access to Railay Beach, famous for its rock climbing activities.
Getting To Krabi From Malaysia
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By Plane
Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 kilometres from the city limit and 15 kilometres from the city centre. It is 40 kilometres from Ao Nang, the busiest part of Krabi, which is the jump-off points for tourists to go for the island-hopping excursions off coasts.
Firefly flies three times daily to and from Penang, taking approximately an hour. We definitely recommend this mode of transport to Krabi, which is more time-saving even cheaper than boarding the bus if you book at the right time!
Best Chilling Ride Around Krabi
Tuk – tuk is the most convenient way to get around Krabi. They cost 20 Baht per person and are easily available by the roadside. But if you really good at bargaining, then you might get yourself lucky! It is fun to travel with the tuk-tuk.
Expenditures
Krabi is one of the world famous tourist destinations and attractions. The currency in Thailand is in Thai Baht. For those interested to travel backpack when visiting Krabi for three days and two nights, RM500 (more or less equivalent to 5,000 Baht) would be enough to cover accommodation, meals and transport.
From Krabi town to Ao Nang, it costs 50 Baht per person by songthaew, more or less similar to the jeepney in Manila. From Ao Nang to the airport, it costs 500 Baht per taxi ride but it costs more from the airport to Ao Nang.
What To Do?
Frolic around Ao Nang
Ao Nang is considered as Krabi’s centre for water-based activities and nightlife. Rent a bike or car and simply zip around, stopping in small villages and local markets. Dinner in Ao Nang ranges from pizza to sushi. Its friendly nightlife, which is worth checking out, begins from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Visit the famous Wat Tham Suea, Tiger Cave Temple
One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the province, it is well known for the tiger paw prints in the cave, tall Buddha statues and the strenous 1,237 flight of stairs to reach the summit. At the same time, enjoy the views of nature and other creatures there – truly breathtaking!
Embrace yourself with the hot spring experience at Waree Raksa
To complete a perfect Krabi holiday experience, the day spa at Waree Raksa should not be missed. This is definitely the place where travellers can soak their cares and worries away by dipping into the perfectly healthy natural mineral-enhanced spring water straight from the source. Travellers can also enjoy a full relaxation massage and practice Thai yoga, besides savouring healthy lunch accompanied by herbal tea. The clear and odourless water – which naturally hovers around 38°Celsius to 42°Celsius, possesses the pH value of 6.9 and rich in beneficial minerals – was discovered by chance in 1989.
Follow the 4-island tour
Book the 4-island tour with a tour agent (to get snorkelling equipment and lunch) or do it independently (to experience the tour according to your own time). Most local companies offer this tour – simply go to the local tour companies (most of them speak English) and ask for the Four Islands tour, which includes visit to Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island and Phra Nang Cave. The tour will take travellers to visit spectacular beaches and a hidden lagoon. The cheapest rate is around 1,200 Baht (RM120) per person. Travel by speedboat is more expensive.
Visit Railay Island for its beautiful tropical island views
Located 25 kilometres northwest of Ao Nang. It is one of the most beautiful islands near the Krabi coast with towering limestone cliffs that shelter incredible beaches. Isolated from the mainland, the peninsula of Railay is surrounded by the warm Andaman Sea, lush jungle, and twisted rock. The island offers various activities for the most adventurous, including those who just want to simply chill out.
Take time out to do some shopping
Trawl the hundreds of souvenir shops by strolling around a local market to hunt for the usual souvenirs such as fridge magnets, miniatures, collectible soda cans, cute sculptures of elephants and Buddhist icons, including Muslim-related items like prayer mats and women’s praying veil.
Where to Stay?
Aonang Villa Resort is a stimulating accommodation that is situated in the centre of Ao Nang, just minutes away from lively shops and restaurants, unspoiled nature and lush tropical environment, including soaring limestone cliffs. The resort delivers commendable service to all of its guests and help make their stay memorable.
Last Thoughts
Travellers should keep their stress level at all-time low by spending their time on the deserted beaches and enjoy the view of magical Krabi, which offers a great escape!
