Krabi Town, Thailand Guide
Krabi Town, often overlooked in favor of its stunning coastline, offers an authentic glimpse into Thai life. It's a bustling provincial capital with a vibrant local market, charming riverside promenade, and a relaxed atmosphere. While not directly on the beach, Krabi Town serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's famous attractions, including Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and the Phi Phi Islands, all easily accessible by boat or bus. Beyond its practical advantages, Krabi Town boasts its own unique appeal. Explore the Wat Kaew Korawaram, a striking white temple perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the town. Wander through the Krabi Town Night Market, a sensory explosion of delicious street food, local crafts, and lively entertainment. Experience the genuine warmth of the Thai people and immerse yourself in the local culture away from the tourist crowds.
Food & Cuisine
Krabi Town offers a diverse culinary scene, from authentic Thai street food to international cuisine. The Krabi Town Night Market is a must-visit for sampling local delicacies like Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and fresh seafood. For a more formal dining experience, try one of the many restaurants along the Krabi River, offering stunning views and delicious Thai dishes. Ruen Mai is a popular restaurant known for its authentic Southern Thai cuisine. For fresh seafood, head to the Chao Fah Pier area, where you'll find several restaurants serving up the day's catch. Don't miss the opportunity to try Massaman curry, a rich and flavorful dish with Indian and Malay influences, or Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (green chicken curry), a classic Thai favorite.
Nightlife
Krabi Town's nightlife is more laid-back compared to Ao Nang. You'll find a selection of bars and restaurants along the Krabi River and in the town center, offering live music, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Krabi Town Night Market also provides evening entertainment with street performers and food stalls. For a livelier scene, consider taking a short trip to Ao Nang, which boasts a wider range of bars, clubs, and beach parties.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Krabi Town is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this period, you can expect sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and low humidity, making it ideal for exploring the region's beaches and islands. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October can also be good, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June-August), as heavy rainfall and rough seas can disrupt travel plans.
Transportation
Krabi Town doesn't have a tram or subway system. The primary mode of public transportation is the songthaew (red open-air bus), which operates on fixed routes around town and to nearby areas like Ao Nang. Motorcycle taxis are also readily available for short distances. Taxis and tuk-tuks are another option, but agree on a price before you start your journey. Renting a scooter is a popular way to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace, but be sure to wear a helmet and have the necessary license. Longtail boats are the main mode of transport to the islands and beaches.
Airport
Krabi International Airport (KBV) is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Krabi Town. The most convenient way to get from the airport to Krabi Town is by taxi or pre-booked private transfer. Airport buses are also available, offering a more affordable option. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Attractions
Khao Khanab Nam Mountains
The Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are two striking limestone hills that stand as iconic landmarks guarding the Krabi River. Visitors can take a longtail boat to explore the caves within one of the mountains, which feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It's a scenic and adventurous excursion.
Krabi Contemporary Art Museum
The Krabi Contemporary Art Museum showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art by Thai and international artists. The museum aims to promote artistic expression and cultural exchange within the region. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, and other multimedia installations.
Krabi River
The Krabi River is the lifeblood of Krabi Town, offering scenic boat trips and opportunities to observe local life. Longtail boats and ferries transport people and goods, while the riverbanks provide picturesque views of the town and surrounding landscapes. Sunset cruises are particularly popular.
City Pillar Shrine
The City Pillar Shrine is an important spiritual site for the local community in Krabi Town. It is believed to house the spirit that protects the city. Visitors can observe the traditional Thai architecture and learn about the local beliefs and customs associated with the shrine.
Thara Park
Thara Park is a large, green space along the Krabi River, perfect for relaxation and recreation. It features walking paths, playgrounds, and exercise equipment. Locals and tourists alike enjoy picnics, jogging, and simply taking in the fresh air and scenic river views.
Mangrove Forest
Explore the unique ecosystem of the Mangrove Forest near Krabi Town. Take a boat tour or kayak through the waterways, observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this environment. It's an opportunity to learn about the importance of mangrove conservation.
Wat Kaew Korawaram
Wat Kaew Korawaram is a stunning white temple located on a hill in Krabi Town. Visitors climb a grand staircase adorned with intricate Naga sculptures to reach the temple. The interior features beautiful murals depicting Buddhist teachings. It's a place for peaceful reflection and offers panoramic views of the town.
Krabi Town Night Market
The Krabi Town Night Market is a vibrant hub of activity held on weekends. It's a fantastic place to sample local Thai street food, browse handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively with music and entertainment, making it a must-visit for an authentic cultural experience.
Day Trips
Koh Lanta is a more laid-back island compared to Phi Phi, offering long stretches of sandy beaches, lush jungle, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
2-2.5 hours by minivan and ferry Krabi Elephant Sanctuary offers an ethical and responsible way to interact with rescued elephants. Visitors can observe the elephants in their natural habitat, learn about their stories, and participate in feeding and bathing them.
30-45 minutes by car The Emerald Pool is a natural freshwater pool with stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by lush rainforest. Nearby, the Krabi Hot Springs offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
1 - 1.5 hours by car or scooter Phang Nga Bay is famous for its dramatic limestone karsts rising vertically out of the emerald-green water. A boat trip through the bay offers stunning scenery, opportunities for kayaking through caves, and visits to iconic locations like James Bond Island.
1.5 - 2 hours by car/minivan to a pier, then boat tour Wat Tham Suea, or Tiger Cave Temple, is a Buddhist temple known for its challenging climb of 1,237 steps to the summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty.
15-20 minutes by taxi or songthaew Ao Nang is a bustling beach town with a lively atmosphere, offering a wide range of restaurants, shops, and activities. It serves as a gateway to many nearby islands and beaches, and provides a more developed tourist infrastructure than Krabi Town itself.
30 minutes by taxi or songthaew Railay Beach is a stunning peninsula accessible only by boat, renowned for its towering limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant rock climbing scene. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect escape from Krabi Town.
15-20 minutes by longtail boat from Ao Nang (add ~30 minutes to get to Ao Nang from Krabi Town) Koh Lanta
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Krabi Elephant Sanctuary
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Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot) & Hot Springs
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Phang Nga Bay
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Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
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Ao Nang
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Railay Beach
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