beginners’ guide to Krabi

Posted by admin on October 9th, 2009 filed in attractions, beach life, hospitality, sightseeing, travel tips

Situated on the Andaman coast south of Phuket, Krabi province is blessed with some of South East Asia’s most stunning scenery. The entire area are dotted with towering limestone cliff formations covered in lush forest, creating jaw-dropping vistas as you relax on the exotic sandy beaches.

Not surprisingly this destination has become more and more popular and its tourist infrastructure has been well developed, but wonderfully retaining the area’s natural beauty. Most of the action can be found at Ao Nang as well as Ao Phai Phlong, a strip of resort facilities along a fabulous beach that is extremely busy during the Christmas season. Home to all modern western comforts, this destination retains its typical Thai atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, souvenir shops and cheap clothes outlets.

At Rai Leh visitors can enjoy this coastline’s most appealing beach, which is accessible by boat solely. It too is favoured and busy with rock climbers. But many tourists are content to unwind on the beach and appreciate the spectacular view.

The two Phi Phi islands is Krabi’s treasure, which boast Thailand’s most jaw-dropping scenery, consisting out of towering limestone mountain formations that are sandwiched between sweeping bays of turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Diving options here are especially excellent, but the resorts and hotels get busy and rather pricey.

There is no beach in Krabi town but it is laid-back and situated on a huge river mouth with a promenade. In Krabi town visitors have the option to truly appreciate the locals’ friendly character, while there are plentiful guesthouses, good shops and restaurants and it is in general cheaper.

Several intriguing attractions are positioned within an easy drive of Krabi. Shaped over the past 70 million years, the Shell Fossil Cemetery is a coastal bizarre landscape. The Tham Suea temple remarkably sits beneath a karst butt in an overhanging cave. A strenuous climb to the chedi on the summit reveals breathtaking vistas. Several fantastic national parks are situated in this area as well.

Phuket provides the nearest international airport and frequent ferries sail to Krabi. Reasonably efficient buses provide regular services as well, arriving all the way from the capital of Bangkok.

Brief guide to Krabi