Exploring the Krabi Province’s Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon, and Tiger Cave Temple

Krabi Province in southern Thailand is beloved for its jungle- and beach-filled landscapes. Combining gorgeous views with a treasure trove of interesting activities, Krabi has a lot to offer for people looking for a thrilling adventure or a scenic dose of natural beauty.

The Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon, and Tiger Cave Temple are three of Krabi’s must-see attractions. Spanning geological formations, crystalline pools, towering temples, and picturesque lagoons, this trio of sites will draw in any traveler who loves nature and history. With our guide, you’ll have everything you need to know for visiting these top Krabi hotspots.

What is the Emerald Pool?

The Emerald Pool is a stunning natural swimming hole in Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, in Krabi’s Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. Also known as “Sa Morakot,” this attraction features crystal-clear, sweet-tasting waters of turquoise emerald that seem to shimmer amid the lush jungle vegetation.

The entire area is filled with butterflies, ferns, and vibrant orchids that make it a real marvel to behold. On the Emerald Pool’s shoreline, you can find various kinds of fish that are just begging to be fed. The pool’s deepest area reaches up to three meters, so there’s plenty of space for adults to swim alongside the kids (who must be accompanied by a supervising adult at all times).

In addition to the main pool, visitors also get to explore two other smaller pools located a short distance away from the first. Reaching them requires a trail trek along the lush nature reserve, after which you can take a dip in various more shallow water carvings such as The Spring and The Namtok.

What is the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon sits at the end of the Ao Nang Beach in the Province’s Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. This is one of Krabi’s most breathtaking attractions, featuring a wall of turquoise-colored waters that reach up to 160 meters in depth.

At certain times during the day (particularly at sunrise or during a clear evening), you can witness its incredibly beautiful changing hues before your eyes. Depending on when you visit, you’ll experience its awe-inspiring waters either calm and picturesque or passionately aggressive.

Accessible only by boat from Noppharat Thara Beach, the Blue Lagoon is worth visiting for those who love snorkeling and scuba diving. Since its depths are full of coral reefs and colorful fish species, if you’re up for an adventure, consider bringing your own diving equipment or renting some from a local supplier in Ao Nang Beach.

For travelers who prefer not to get into the water just yet, there’s nothing wrong with taking a nice stroll on the beach and enjoying the view from above.

What is the Tiger Cave Temple?

The Tiger Cave Temple (or Wat Tham Suea in its Thai name) is one of the most popular temples in Krabi Province. Found in limestone cliffs situated right outside Krabi Town, it offers hikers a gentle (but sweaty) climb up 1,237 steps up to the Tiger Cave’s main pagoda.

The main pagoda towers freely between three hills and offers amazing views of Krabi Town’s emerald green forests, as well as spectacular views of Andaman Sea during days with clear skies. After reaching the heart of this sacred temple complex, you will find several shrines dedicated to Buddha alongside an impressive collection of artifacts.

The Tiger Cave Temple owes its name (and legends) to a stirring legend about a large tiger living in the temple’s woods years ago. Visitors today might not spot the tiger itself; however, the sight of surprised baby monkeys jumping from tree to tree never gets old.

Conclusion

Krabi province offers amazing attractions for visitors looking for both nature-filled discoveries and ancient gems alike. From fluffy tigers to crystalline pools, this trio of extraordinary sites composes an unmissable part of any journey through Thailand’s southern regions.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure or simply some peace of mind at one of Krabi’s tranquil pools or temples, make sure you check out the Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon and Tiger Cave Temple – they are sure to take your breath away! Don’t forget to book your activity ahead of time with GetYourGuide for an even more convenient trip!

Insider’s Guide to Krabi Province – Uncovering Hidden Gems and Rich Culture

Krabi Province in Thailand is a hidden treasure trove that boasts of some of the most stunning natural wonders, an interesting and unique blend of culture, and a rich history that dates back centuries. While the Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon, and Tiger Cave Temple are popular attractions, there’s much more to explore in this province than is initially apparent. Here’s an insider’s guide that offers an unprecedented look into Krabi’s lesser-known hidden gems, fascinating cultural experiences, unique dining spots, rich history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Local Attractions – Hidden Gems

While Railay Beach and the Phi Phi Islands may be crowded, there are some hidden gems in Krabi that offer solitude, peace, and breathtaking natural beauty. For instance, Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam (Crystal Clear Pool) is a unique natural pool which offers delightful swimming experiences, surrounded by lush greenery. Kiriwong Village is another such unexplored gem, famous for its traditional Thai village vibe and mesmerizing scenic beauty. Step into the Tha Lane Bay Mangrove Forest, where visitors can embark on kayaking expeditions to explore caves hidden among the mangroves, and witness the beautiful bioluminescent planktons that glow in the dark.

Dining Spots – Food Culture

Thai cuisine is famous for its aromatic spices and delicious flavors, and Krabi is no exception. Apart from the ubiquitous street food stalls, head to the nearby beachside villages that serve authentic Thai cuisine. At Farang Long Beach Resort, visitors can sample dishes prepared by award-winning chefs, which are made using locally-sourced and sustainably produced ingredients, all while enjoying a spectacular view of the ocean sceneries. Another unique dining experience is Moo3 Ice Cream, a small ice-cream stall run by a local family, famous for making fresh, creamy coconut milk ice-cream with a variety of toppings, including fresh fruits and nuts.

Cultural Experiences – Tradition and Art

Krabi’s culture is deeply rooted in its heritage and traditions, and there are many ways to explore and experience it. Tourists can check out the exclusive paintings at the Khao Khanab Nam Cave, which dates back to prehistoric times and is considered a significant historical site. Head to the Wat Kaew Korawaram temple, where visitors can witness traditional Thai music and dance performances, and learn about the temple’s history and architecture. For more immersive cultural experiences, sign up for Batik Painting classes, which involves creating intricate designs on fabrics guided by local experts.

Local History – Fascinating Stories

Krabi’s history is colorful and fascinating, filled with anecdotes and stories that are sure to pique visitors’ interests. One such story is that of Khao Phanom Bencha Mountain, where the local legend has it that a giant used to reside there, and its footprints can still be seen today. Head to the Khlong Thom Museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits from the prehistoric era, and learn about the interesting stories behind each one. Lastly, check out the Khlong Thom Hot Springs, where stories of the healing properties of the thermal waters have circulated since ancient times.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Unique Experiences

For an exclusive and unforgettable experience, visitors can take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Krabi’s lush green forests and mesmerizing beaches. Alternatively, tourists could embark on an exploration of the nearby Koh Lanta Island, home to several isolated beaches and hidden coves accessible only by boat. Another fascinating experience is the Krabi After Dark tour, which takes visitors on a nocturnal journey, exploring the province’s night markets, street food stalls, and live music performances.

Krabi Province is much more than just a handful of popular tourist attractions. With this insider’s guide, visitors can uncover some of its hidden gems, taste the flavorful local cuisine, experience the richness of Thai culture and immerse themselves in the history and stories that make Krabi so special. With plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions, indulge in unique experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.