The province of Krabi in Thailand is one of its most visited places after the usual suspects like Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. Located at the mouth of River Krabi, this province is a collection of islands and attracts tourism for its stretch of beautiful beaches, gorgeous caves and limestone rocks, water-sportts and idle laid-back vibe. If you are wondering what to do on a collection of 100+ islands, here’s our list of the best tourist places to visit in Krabi.

Imagine white sands and glittering sea that is so clean that you can see its bed. Now imagine limestone caves on the side and cliffs that rise up to the sun. That is the seduction of Railay Beach and the encompassing caves. The area is only accessible by boat owing to its mighty cliffs and is one of the topmost places that tourists prefer to visit while starting off their trip in Krabi. It is a secluded island front and has only a couple of small bars for entertainment and a few boats to take you back, so you just know how quaint its charm is!

The Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is strung with dark high trees that make you feel like you are in the thick of a rainforest, and emerald waters in rock-cut pools that look right out of heaven. With its waterfalls and stunning landscapes, this park gives out a very unique raw vibe and makes for a great spot to go trekking, picnicking or backpacking for photography or painting. Yes, you can dive in that magical emerald pool and yes you can bathe under the waterfall, it is amazing.

Also popularly known as Tiger Cave, Wat Tham Sua can be also described as a labyrinth in itself. The caves are located inside the thickets of jungles and have many a temples hidden inside it. Monks use these for their practise and meditation, which gives them a divine and peaceful aura. The cave derives its name from a legend that states a tiger precious to Gautam Buddha lived here once upon a time. You will come across relics and icons of Buddhism as you explore these caves and enjoy some climbing too. The view from the top is breathtaking and shows you the Andaman Sea in all its glory.

The heart of the main island of Krabi known as Krabi Town makes for a great place to roam around. With its rustic old world charm and breakfast bars, clubs, shops and quaint wonderful cafes, the town is a local as well as tourist haunt. Fishing boats dock on the coast and parks and homes trail into the heart of the town where shopping, relaxing, dining and drinking prosper. What’s not to like?

This is one of the most coveted locations to visit for a nice long dip and soak in crisp healing springs and pools. The Klong Thom Hot Springs are cut into natural rocks in terraces and the deep springs come out of a volcanic chamber of Klong Thom. The water, obviously blessed with healing properties, helps in alleviating skin and other diseases. There are green lush thickets around and the water is as warm as 43°C even on the hottest day. A crisp cooling spring also pops on the side so if you get too hot, don’t hesitate to switch.

The Phi Phi Islands have been put on the map by the 2002 Leo DiCaprio movie ‘The Beach.’ Today all these years later it is a heavenly tourist abode and is only 45 minutes away from Krabi mainland by boat. The tropical beaches, turquoise coloured waters and pristine sands are only enhanced by the local population that is just as welcoming and sweet. So pack your bikini and trunks and hats and suntans, and head to Phi Phi for a day trip from Krabi.

Khao Khanab Nam is a collection of mountains and caves that make for Krabi’s topmost landmark. The brown of the mountains set off the blue of the ocean beside, and everything looks in perfect sync on nature’s flawless canvas. The mountains are home to stalactites and stalagmites, as well as caves that were inhabited in pre-historic times. Human fossil and skeletons are also found here and there are numerous stories as to why people died here, some saying they were killed by pirates, others believing a flood led to mass destruction. Some even go as far as to claim that the humans were offerings to the cave’s demon. 

Even so, this is a great place to go hiking and enjoy some time out with friends taking photographs and enjoying the scenery.

The Krabi Elephant Sanctuary is a great place to visit for animal lovers. It is a home for elephants that have been overworked or become too old after working Thailand’s logging and tourism industries for decades. You get to see them in their own habitat, going about their routines, and even get to feed, walk and bathe them sometimes. The lagoon nearby is a tourist favourite and is always rife with antics of these lovely creatures, showing off by splashing and playing as onlookers cheer on.