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Ecovilla Farmstay

Tour and activity info

ecovilla@fastmail.fm


 

Contents

Home. 1

Local (<25Km). 1

Ecovilla Kayaking. 1

Tham Sra Kaew Ponds & Cliffs. 1

The Klong Sra Kaew freshwater swimming hole. 1

Klong Song Nam.. 1

Thalen. 1

a)      Sea Kayaking Tour. 1

b)     Malinas. 1

Huay Toh Waterfall 1

Chong Pli Climbing. 1

Phung-nga Bay Tours. 1

3 Island Tour. 1

4 Island Tour. 1

Ao-Nung Area. 1

Ao Nang beach. 1

Klong Hang. 1

Klong Muang beach. 1

Tub Kaek Beach. 1

Long Beach. 1

Yorn Nark. 1

Aquarium and Aquaculture centre. 1

Fossil Shell Beach. 1

Krabi Town Area. 1

Walking Street. 1

Krabi Riverside & Thara Park. 1

Tiger Temple. 1

Activities Further away (>25Km). 1

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park. 1

Emerald Pool 1

Krabi Hot Spring. 1

Lignite Golf course. 1

Ao Luk District. 1

Than Bok Khorani National Park. 1

Lam Suk Temple. 1

Caves @ Ao Luk. 1

Cave at Phung-nga. 1

Phi Phi Islands. 1

Other Activities. 1

Elephant Trekking. 1

Cobra Show.. 1

Tree Top Adventure Park. 1

Table 1 Important phone numbers for your stay in Krabi Province. 1

Table 2 Google map location co-ordinates & plus codes. 1

Contact us. 1

 

Places to see and activities

Local (<25Km)

Ecovilla Kayaking

If the kayaks are returned to their rack - there is no fee

We charge a fee when we have to collect the kayaks from the one-way trips as listed

·         Trip a       150 Bht (1-2 kayaks)

·         Trip b       250 Bht (1-2 kayaks)

·         Trip c       500 Bht (1-2 kayaks)

Ecovilla border creek & start of kayaking trip

a)    Kayak from Ecovilla downstream to the local concrete boat ramp 50m beyond the road bridge where the longtail boats are parked. The creek flows reasonably slowly through overgrown jungle banks with log obstacles etc. It takes about 30min to complete Once there secure the kayaks and walk 300m back to Ecovilla and /or we will pick you up

b)    Medium trip to road Hwy 4034 access this trip allows you to experience the congested jungle creek then after the bridge (a-above) opens up to easy kayaking along a typical winding mangrove creek system, gradually getting wider as you go – this trip ends at the end of road/ Hwy 4034 where we will pick you up. This trip is about 1hr duration

Google map grab showing Ecovilla; boat ramp and end of Rd 4034 (Kayak trips a & b)

 

c)    Trip c is a longer trip (6.5km) to Thalen (seaside) this is for medium to experienced kayakers and can take 2hrs+ and must be done on a receding tide. Once you arrive at the Thalen pier give us a call for pickup. This longer kayaking trip starts with the short sections above (a & b above) then incrementally opens up to a salt water estuary - Take water and phone so we know when to pick you up. Your end point is the start point for the famous Thalen sea-kayaking tours.

So if you are inclined and have the energy, head across and start the sea kayaking tour (save $) just follow the hire kayaks as they meander through the tidal waterways. Best if you refer to Table 2 Google map location co-ordinates & plus codes for pinned entry /exit points. The sea kayaking at Thalen is famous for sheltered and shady mangrove tidal steams along limestone karst cliffs and canyons, it is very rewarding, and popular but beware it is tidal dependant (see trip d below)

Overview of Kayaking trips a; b; c & d (Sea kayaking at Thalen)

d)    The Thalen sea-kayaking tours usual start from around the Thalen public piers at or Kayak Point, the kayakers paddle across the waterway into a shady labyrinth of mangrove channels; pools & canyons. The tour can be guided (500bht) but we feel it is more fun to simply explore yourselves or follow the other kayaks. This tour is tidal dependant and can only be completed (full circuit) in peak tidal conditions.(ideally 3 days each side of full or no moon) Ie upper reaches of the circuit become mud banks on lower tidal ranges.

Note: Don’t display food or the local mangrove monkeys may hassle you.

 Kayak Point @ Thalen 8.1434207,98.7472784  6MWWHPVW+9W  Hire of kayaks (700/double); See also Start/End of sea kayak tour co-ordinates - Speak Kit & Oi for kayak hire if required - Ph 08 08849585


 

Tham Sra Kaew Ponds & Cliffs

Sightseeing / bike ride (tall trees cliffs & deep fresh water ponds along rural roads)

Limestone cliffs and deep pools – Two deep azure ponds joined by a subterranean tunnel @ -60m; -and (currently explored to -240m) are at the top end /source of our creek. The ponds location is closely guarded secret within the cave diving fraternity The Sra Kaew cave system has not yet been fully explored – “Blue Label Diving” in Phuket organises cave diving tours for the suitably qualified divers -. Approx. 3.5km one way lovely scenic bike ride along rural roads

http://www.oceanzonedivers.com/diving/caves/krabi-cave-diving.html

 

Tham Sra Kaew deep freshwater pond                          Schematic of Tham Sra Kaew Cave system

 

Bicycle tracks to Klong Sra Kaew; swimming hole; cliffs and deep water pool

 


 

 

The Klong Sra Kaew freshwater swimming hole

The locals call it Amazon jungle pool (See location in above google map) Approx 2.5 km away

The swimming hole is100m downstream from the Sra Kaew ponds & cliff – It tends to be busy on weekends and school holiday afternoons and is popular with locals and tours

Beautiful natural freshwater pool usually crystal clear and refreshingly cool- Walks to upstream rock pools where the ground water seeps out to form the creek (Adjacent to Item 2 above) – Managed by the local co-operative - Entrance charge 50-80 baht / adult -This is easy to get to from Ecovilla and great for kids to swim in a natural environment   (Rubber tyres; kayaks etc and food available)

Klong Sra Kaew

 

 

Klong Song Nam

Approx. 12km away

Board walk from crystal clear fresh water mangrove forest to tidal mangroves. Beautiful freshwater creek – swimming allowed in downstream pool. Managed by the local co-operative- Rumours are it went cloudy days before the 2004 tsunami. Entrance charge 50-80 baht / adult

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Klong Song Nam

 


Thalen

Thalen is our closest access to seaside activities. There is accommodation; restaurants sea kayaking & boat tours to Phung-nga bay islands; also Ferry boats to Koh Yao & Phuket

Approx. 7- 9 km by the back road and 15km via sealed ring road

 

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Thalen sea kayaking @ canyon

a)    Sea Kayaking Tour

This is the same tour as described in section 1d (above)

The sea kayaking tour is very popular – undertaken mainly in overgrown mangrove tidal channels along sheer limestone karst cliffs with maze like false bays (hongs) Tidal dependant – Restricted access on low tide. 500/700 baht kayak + transfer fee if applicable Many of our guests have described this as their best experience Ask for Kit & Oi at Kayak Point and tell them you come from David’s place for best price (500bht / kayak)  map co-ordinates 8.1434207,98.7472784   6MWWHPVW+9W

b)    Malinas

Malinas whale bar and restaurant is our favourite access point to Thalen beach – Our friend Peter and Kloy run a small resort consisting of two houses and 3 bungalows right on the beach. The beach bar/restaurant caters for drinks snacks & meals and is a great place for swimming when the tide is full The low tide reveals a sand bar up to 150m wide with intermittent rocks which is popular with the locals who search for shell fish. Great sunset views across Phung-nga bay

Malinas bar is named in memorial for Peter’s daughter who was a casualty of the tsunami      

 map co-ordinates 8.1508233,98.7403268  6MWW5P2R+84

 

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Bicycle tracks to Thalen; Pier; Kaiyum; and Kayak point (Also shows sea kayak route)


Huay Toh Waterfall

(Approx 15 km) - The waterfall is a part of Khao Phanom Bencha National Park and the closest major waterfall to us. We like to go to Huay Toh waterfall for hiking in the untouched jungle to see large tree specimens and the different ecosystems as we trek around the hills there. Also there is an added advantage of arriving at the upper waterfall sections to enjoy a swim in the fresh water pools alone – without the crowds of day visitors in the lower pools. The walk starts from the entrance gate (Entrance fee applicable - 200/adult) rather than heading straight ahead to the waterfall we usually , take a left turn just inside the park gate and follow the path a short distance up beside the creek to see a huge tree buttress, then double back and take the steep path up the hill to the left side of  the admin building – The track winds up the hill and onto the ridge where you can take a short trek to the left to a view point (almost see the sea) before doubling back along the ridge to the upper waterfall sections / pools At this point the track crosses the creek and has a circuitous route back the lower water fall base – An alternative route down is a very steep track down alongside the waterfall which is shorter but not for the fait hearted. Wear sturdy shoes; and study the route before you leave (sign post at the waterfall base pool)

Those that want to just relax in the lower pool need only to walk approx 200m on a well-defined track past the visitor centre and restaurant. The ranger station at Huay Toh Waterfall has well maintained gardens and bungalows for rent but the restaurant closes at 5pm. We love this section of the national park and choose to visit often. The short walk to the large tree buttress (access from park gate) should not be missed – Also note the stack of illegal logs below the carpark – remnants of recent times when the parks were exploited for animals & wood.

Note: Overnight bungalows available at park headquarters - Huay Toh Waterfall is a part of the much larger Khao Phanom Bencha National Park which has several other access points – See note below on Khao Phanom Bencha National Park - Climbing Khao Phanom Bencha 

 

Huay Toh Waterfall

Description: Image result for huay toh waterfall krabi

 

Chong Pli Climbing

Meet Romano (Ph 084 6291550) and Mike at Chong Pli (Spirit Mountain) which is only 10minutes away by car from Ecovilla. Mike pioneered the most of climbing routes up the beautiful karst cliffs and has titanium bolted most of the routes – Climb with much less hassle than catching a boat to Railay - Gear ropes & shoes are available for rent. (1000bht for 2 person full set)          Also Romano has basic bungalows for rent there – but hard to get in the high season. Levels of climbing expertise for everyone

Climbing guided tours can be arranged with notice to Chong Pli and the famous Railay & TonSai beachs

I love to take the kids there and get them climbing – it’s a great and safe activity.

Chong Pli map co-ordinates 8.0822939,98.8293962   6MWW3RJH+WQ

 

While we would prefer to organize a climbing guide or recommend a climb site, sometimes the only option is the commercial operators, who specialize in climbing tuition and tours at Chong Pli and Railay. as below

Real Rocks Climbing School  WhatsApp: +66957433325  Tel: +66(0)807181351 www.realrocksclimbing.com

If the guys mentioned above are not available, the local shop would only be too happy to take you on a climbing tour to Railay or Chong Pli   A quick look at their website shows prices from 3500 – 6000 Baht /day

 


 

Phung-nga Bay Tours

 

Phung-nga bay is a huge bay with many activities Sunbaking and swimming is popular on some island beaches – two national parks encompass some of the most popular islands.

There is a national park fee payable for access to the National Park Islands (300 bht /adult 100bht/child) which may or may not be included in your tour fee so ask if not sure.

Tam Bok Tani National Park

Koh Hong

Koh      Puk Bia

Koh          Lao Lading

Best access from Thalen Pier             3 Island tour

Pee Pee                 National Park

Koh Poda

Koh Kai

Koh Tub

Best Access from Noppharat Thara Pier (Klong Hang)

 

Ao-Nang Boat Service Co-operative - Price does not include National park fee

Boat leaves from Thalen Pier

1

Hong Island/ Hong Lagoon/ Lading island/Pakbia island-      3 Island tour

Max 6 person/boat

2500

Boat leaves from Napparat Tara Pier

2

Railey beach/Phra nang Cave beach/ Ton Sai Beach      Max8 person/ Taxi boat per/boat or per/person

One way/taxi boat                      Taxi boats frequent except in bad weather

800/boat                        150/person/one way

3

Many different tours available – in shared speed boat

Can be up to 30 people

 

4

Hong Island/ Hong Lagoon

Max 6 person/boat

 

5

Hong Island/ Hong Lagoon/ Lading island/Pakbia island -     3 Island Tour

Max 6 person/boat

 

6

Bamboo island (Koh Mai Pai)

Max 6 person/boat

 

7

Phi Phi island

Max 6 person/boat

 

8

Phi Phi island/ Bamboo island/Maya bay/Pileh bay

Max 6 person/boat

 

9

Poda island/Tub island/Chicken island/ Phra nang cave/ Railey beach

Max 6 person/boat

 

10

Poda Island/Tub island/Chicken island                                     Ao-Nung 3 Island trip about 4 hours

Max 6 person/boat

 

11

Poda island/Tub island/Chicken island/ Phra nang cave/ Railey beach/ Hong Island/ Hong Lagoon

7 island trip

Max 6 person/boat

 

12

Poda island/Tub island/Chicken island/ Phra nang cave/ Riley beach/ Hong Island/ Hong Lagoon/ Lading island/Pakbia island - 9 island trip

Max 6 person/boat

 

The popular Phung-nga bay island tours are listed above and below – the beaches are beautiful but busy, the sea water is tepid with an average 2-5m visibility (average for tidal estuary).

There are two ways to do an island tour

a)    Hire your own long tail boat

b)    Buy a seat on a speed boat or large longtail (be a part of a group)

The group tours tend to be impersonal and inflexible while hiring your own boat gives you flexibility and the ability to ask the boat driver to take you to a section of uninhabited beach when the crowds become too much.

Some guests would prefer to go to an uninhabited section of poorer quality beach rather than the popular & crowded island beaches


3 Island Tour

Commences from Thalen or Ao-Nung – There are many options and prices – best to speak to us on your requirements as it is easy to pay excessively

National Park fees is 300Baht / adult and 100/ child for island access

None of the islands on this tour can be classed as world class snorkelling – The coral is mainly regenerating and visibility average due to the location with the mangrove estuary. Our suggestions is to go as early as possible in peak times to beat the crowds and get the best shady spot along the beach fronts

 

Description: Image result for Hong Island Krabi Thailand

Koh Hong

Koh Hong is an outstanding island located in the northwest of Ao Nang. Almost compleately surrounded by limestone mountains with a fine white sand beach; plenty of shade and beach restaurant run by the national park, the bay in the north of the island is enclosed,(hong) hence the name. Kayaks can be rented to paddle around to the hong but usually your boat tour will include a short trip there on prior to departure.

There are short walks around the cliff base and of course swimming in the sheltered bay. This island is very popular so can become crowded in peak tourist season. Don’t miss the old & large monitor lizards which have been resident there for 25 years +.

Choose to spend the most time of your tour on this island – especially if there is not many tourists

 

Koh Lao Lading is also a stop on the 3 isalnd tour – Just North of Koh Hong the small unihibhabitied island has a small scenic sheltered beach with large tamarind tree and surrounding limestone cliffs. Nice sheltered bay with sheer cliffs to swim but easily becomes crowded.

A fantastic view of the sea embracing the neighbouring green islands framed by sheer cliffs is the main attraction.

Description: Image result for koh lao la ding

Koh Lao Lading

Koh Pak Bia is a small island just North of Koh Lao Lading with a long narrow stretch of sand that separates two bays at low tide and becomes submerged at full tide - if you are lucky enough to have this place to yourself its beautiful with scenic views of adjacent islands and Koh Yao Noi in the distance. Live coral is minimal and the low tide dries out to reveal reef rubble - visibility for snorkelling is average. A few wild monkeys keep a watchful eye out for food scraps. Again this island becomes busy in peak tourist season and longtail boats compete for space along the beach front.

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Koh Pak Bia


4 Island Tour

Commences from Ao-Nung – The prices can vary – speak to us about your requirements as the tour agents are not shy ask for more than the tour value- so easy to pay excessively.

National Park fees is 300Baht / adult and 100/ child for island access

This 4 island tour has slightly better visibility than the 3 island tour as is further South in the bay

Our suggestions is to go as early as possible in peak times to beat the crowds and get the best shady spot along the beach fronts

Kho Tub is located in the Mu Koh Poda archipelago just south west of Ao Nang between Koh Poda and Chicken Island. Tup is much smaller than the other islands in the group, however it has a nice beach and the waters that surround it provide for good swimming and beginner snorkelling.

 

Koh Kai (Chicken Island). This small and unusual looking island is situated just south of Poda and Tup Islands about 30 minutes by longtail boat from the west coast of Krabi.

A large rock formation that undoubtedly resembles the head and neck of a chicken is a dominant feature and local landmark; on one side there is sheer cliffs that are covered in vegetation, while the other side boasts a typical beach.

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Koh Kai

 

Talay Waek (Sand bank) is natural attraction. The tidal phenomenal has swept the sand to converge a line connecting the three islands, Koh Kai; Koh Mor and Koh Tup islands at low tide. High tide obscures the sand spit.

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Talay Waek


Railay beach is land locked by impassable mountains to form a small peninsula only accessible by boat

The high limestone cliffs attract rock climbers from all over the world, but the area is also popular due to its scenic beaches and atmosphere.

Accommodation ranges from bungalows and medium-priced resorts in East Railay to a collection of luxury resorts focused on West Railay, though one, Rajavadee, spans both waterfronts. The four main areas of Railay consist of Phra Nang, West Railay, East Railay, and Ton Sai. Ton Sai caters to climbers and the backpacker set and is more rustic in character than the glitz of West Railay and the shops and restaurants of the East Railay boardwalk.

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Railay Beach

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Phra Nang Princess Cave on the east side of the Railay Bay is famous for its photogenic stalactites & stalagmites. The fishermen, say the cave is the home of a mythical sea princess, and believe their offerings will bring them success in their fishing and protect them from danger. A large collection of carved wooden phallic symbols, and other objects / offerings believed to help with fertility, can also be seen…

Railay beach is usually included on the 4 island tour – The beaches can get crowded in peak tourist season. Railay Beach is also well serviced by longtail taxi boats in fair to good weather. The taxi boats leave continuously from Ao-Nung (Wang Sai Seafood) and Anamou piers throughout the day – But will not run in bad weather

Fares are approx. 100 to 150Baht/person one way – depending where you leave from - Longtail boats are also leave from Krabi town.


Ao-Nung Area

Ao Nang beach

(Approx 25 km away) Ao-nung beach is located along the main Krabi beach tourist strip which is dominated by restaurants, pubs, shops and other commerce aimed at tourists. The beaches are very shallow and therefore at low tide dry out; swimming is fine at any time other than low tide,

Boat tours depart from Klong Hang on the NW tip of Nopparat Thara beach and usually Wang Sai Seafood restaurant if the sea state allows, offering access to Railay and nearby islands

 

Beaches in general area of AoNung include

·         Ao Nung Beach                  Crowed and easily accessible from hotels; shops and restaurants

·         Hat Noppharat Beach        Long beach c/w good access – Nice shaded section on NW end

·         Tub Kack Beach                Nice beach with restricted access - tourist hotels dotted along

·         Klong Muang Beach                      Nice beach sections with restricted access - hotels dotted along

·         Long Beach                                    Very quiet- off the tourist track

·         Ton Sai; Railay & Ao Pra Nung beaches access by boat only (from Anamou pier or Wang Sai seafood restaurant at Eastern end of Hat Noppharat beach

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Hat Noppharat Thara Beach

(Approx 20 km away) Noppharat Thara beach is quieter longer (3km) and more relaxing than Ao-nung beach due to its Hat Noppharat Thara-Koh Phi Phi National Park status – especially at the western end (Klong Hang) where the old casuarina trees provide expansive areas of shade – so popular with the thai picnickers. A lovely beach for dawn / dust exercise / foreigner weddings are also popular.

There is no deckchair mafia so most groups of people bring a light beach mat and find their preferred spot to chill. This beach is also shallow so at low tide, it’s possible to walk from the beach across the sand spit to Koh Kao Pak Klong Island in the bay. Kids and adults alike love to chase the tide out to the island. Food carts are easy to find along the road

The Hat Nopparat Thara-Koh Phi Phi National Park has a admin building at the end of the beach (Klong Hang) where toilets and showers are available for a few baht. There is a short strip of shops and restaurants along one side of the carpark at the western end of the beach.

We have never been disappointed when dining at Krua Thai restaurant (@ klong Hang) but the words out – its popular.

 

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Western end of Hat Nopparat Thara beach near Klong Hang


Klong Hang

Nopparat Thara beach ends at Klong Hang (which means dried up creek) which is the bustling sheltered water way (now dredged) where hundreds of tour speed and long tail boats moor up overnight. Most tours also leave from the pier at this location. Its wonderful to see all the activity as the Thai boatman manoeuvre & maintain their boats especially in the late afternoon.

Krua Thai restaurant is located here and very popular – We are never disappointed when we eat there but in peak days / times you may have to wait for a table.

Klong Muang beach

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Klong Muang beach

(Approx 18 km away) is a long and relatively undeveloped narrow beach – this often deserted beach is the poor cousin of the Ao-Nung tourist strip. There is accommodation and restaurants but in a much less dense manner.

Klong Muang reminds me of a more normal Thai beach than Ao-nung which is over commercialised. Having said that you will probably encounter rubbish on the tide line. The main restaurant area is approx 2km away on the way to Tub Kaek beach.

Tub Kaek Beach

Tub Kaek beach (Approx 25 km away) is a beautiful contoured beach with large rock boulders lined with trees offering shade - as a result it has a line of hotels and resorts built along it with manicured gardens. It faces west with outlooks onto Koh Yao in Phung-nga Bay and Talen. The beach appears to have been shut off by hotels which are situated on the beach but if you look carefully you can find access paths and roads down to the beach. Many of our guests have said they like Tub Kaek beach for its scenic & relaxing atmosphere

A large gypsum stock pile & loading pier can be seem adjacent to Tub Kaek beach and extending out into deeper water. This is a part of a land bridge between Surathani (Sth China Sea) & Tub Kaek Anderman Sea. The gypsum (main ingredient of cement) is trucked between the ports in articulated lorries at specified times due to local villages protesting along the route about trucks making road access hazardous during school drop offs & pickups and local market access etc

This is also the point where you can trek to the top of the Yorn Nark mountain - See more on this below

Long Beach

Long beach is sandwiched between Klong Muang and Hat Noppharat Thara beaches and is a bit off the tourist track – therefore very quiet. There is limited accommodation along the beach but generally its not commercialised. The beach is very shallow so just an expanse of sand at low tide. I have had guests who just wanted empty beach and this was their choice

Yorn Nark

This mountain trail is situated in a national park and very popular - It takes about 2 hrs each way plus time at the top where you get magnificent views all over the region plus the ionic krabi photo – Steep in sections and hot and sweaty - -Sections with stairs have recently been added – It is closed from approx. (14:30 each day for commencing ascent) as there is no facilities / toilets at the top  ie no camping overnight stays allowed – water fall / creek at the bottom is good to refresh in when you have made it back to the bottom – take plenty of water to drink

Start / finish of view point track

map co-ordinates 8.0996370,98.7488042

 

Yorn Nark view point

View of Phung-nga bay from summit of Yorn Nark


Aquarium and Aquaculture centre

25 Km. away Salt water aquarium with limited species of reef fish & turtles – Some large specimens in large open ponds and a friendly ray who welcomes visitors – also breeding centre for grouper & seabass fingerlings for aquaculture The aquarium is close to the fossil beach so worth combining a visit if you’re in the area. Certainly the aquarium is not near to the standard of the Phuket Aquarium with regard to display tanks but the government centre also caters for biopsies on prawns for the prawn farms and as a breeding centre for saltwater groupers; sea bass and turtles. Under the late kings patronage sea bass fingerlings are released into the mangrove estuaries as a mitigation to overfishing.

Fossil Shell Beach

25 Km. away –(Close to Aquaculture centre above) 10 million year old shell fossils cemented into slabs are a reminder of the abundant reefs long ago. During the day, there is an entry fee of 200 baht / adult and 100 baht for children

Looks like going at low tide is a good idea here

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Fossil Shell beach


Krabi Town Area

·         Krabi Town Sightseeing around town

·         Fresh food market

·         Thara park

·         Tiger Temple

Walking Street

(Approx 25 km away - Thanon Khon Dern in Thai) is a fun spectacle

It is held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 17:00 to 22:00 in Soi Maharaj 8 and on the 2,000sqm plaza situated right behind Vogue Department Store in downtown Krabi. With something like 50 stalls selling a wide range of products and street food, Walking Street always generates a crowd. Usually there is a stage event which could be students singing or a civic event.

 

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Walking st – central Krabi town

 

Krabi Riverside & Thara Park

Thara Park foreshore

(Approx 20 km away) Thara park has a large garden which fronts onto the Krabi river estuary and includes a kids playground. You can meander through walking trails, relax by a pond, run laps, play tennis or football on the oval, or watch the boat traffic pass by, including the small open ferry boat which transfers passengers and their motorbikes back & forth between Koh Klung on the far side of the river. A short restaurant strip along the river bank serve typical Thai Easarn food at local prices. The park is only a short walk from town and a popular exercise route in the evenings. Along the footpath between Town and Thara Park is the Bai Toey Restaurant map co-ordinates 8.0580482,98.9198098  – one of our favourites when eating in town, especially late afternoon because the restaurant has a good vantage point overlooking the river.

Tiger Temple

(25 Km. away) Wat Tham Suea is just out of town on the way to Krabi airport, you can see the Buddhist tiger temple perched high and gleaming on one of the hill summits. It takes approx 1000 steps to climb the steep limestone karst hill to top temple – from there, good views of Krabi and surrounding area can be had in a 360 vista. Keep your valuable & food hidden because the monkeys patrol the steps in search of food – Best cause of action is to ignore them completely. As per normal with access to temples in Thailand dress appropriately so as not to offend the Thais or the gods!

Description: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5c/Wat_Tham_Sua_15.jpg/220px-Wat_Tham_Sua_15.jpg

1000 steps up at top of tiger temple

There is a second walk into a amazing and beautiful secluded valley as an alternative or addition to the steep walk to the peak – Both walks start within 50m of each other within the Tiger temple complex. This is very popular spot with Thais and foreigners alike


Activities Further away (>25Km)

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

(Approx 55km) Krabi’s highest and most difficult hike is a walk up 1,397 meter high Khao Phanom Bencha in the national park close to Krabi Town. The walk starts in the morning – from “Bang Saran Village” or Ban San Tourist Service Center / ranger station and entrance to the park between 9am and 10am (opposite side of the mountain range to the Huay Toh Waterfall). There is a limit of up to 5 persons going at once plus the guide. The hike takes between 3 and 4 hours to reach the summit of Khao Phanom which is the highest peak in the area – Overnight camping possible

Description: Image result for Khao Phanom Bencha

 

 

Emerald Pool

Azure fresh water large circular pond in large stone escarpment is approx 70 Km. away – crystal clear water – due to high mineral content -  Popular with tourists  Gets busy in afternoon; weekends

Also nice forest walk as alternative route to the wide track (350m access road) to lower pond and don’t miss the concrete board walk to the crystal upper pond. No swimming allowed at the upper ponds.  – Rumoured to be a communist stronghold in the seventies – Can’t think of a more idyllic place to have a hideout

Admission Price 200 THB for tourists and 20 THB for Thais

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Emerald pool (Unpopulated)

 

Krabi Hot Spring

The hot springs are (70 Km. away) and close to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve situated in the same reserve as the Emerald Pool and Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. The therapeutic hot springs are ‘hot tubs’ crafted into smooth rock channelling water from deep rooted thermal springs. The waters average 35-40 degree Celsius and are brimming with natural mineral salts which are claimed to cure all manner of health complaints including rheumatism and sciatica. If you arrive when not crowded the experience is relaxing and rewarding in the rain forest pools but the pools are easily crowed out, The stone hollowed out jungle baths feed into a cool refreshing stream which is perfect for dipping and diving into.

Situated in the same reserve as the Emerald Pool and Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, it’s worthwhile to combine these natural pools in one day.

Opening Hours: from 07:00 - 18:00 Entrance fee is charged at 90 baht for the hot springs or you can pay 200 baht and also access the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve and Crystal/Emerald Pool.

 

Hot Springs near Emerald Pool

 

Lignite Golf course

The only golf course in Krabi is appox 40km away – it is situated adjacent to the lignite power station and close to the Hat Yao beach

Intermittent hunger strikes and protests are ongoing by a group who is fighting the government intention to increase the lignite (old coal) power generation in Krabi and Songkhla

Ao Luk District

Ao Luek Tay sub district, covers an abundance of natural trekking routes, waterfalls, mangrove forests, Lot Cave, Phi Hua To Cave and its prehistoric drawing and Hong archipelago. Than Bok Khorani National Park’s headquarters are situated in sub district of Ao Luek Nuea Market Intersection on Ao Luk Sak Road

 

Than Bok Khorani National Park

(40 Km. away) This is best described as a large natural water park of about 37.5 Rai of rare floras like wild gardenias, Asoka and Apocynaceae which are sprinkled around the swimmable Bok Khorani Pond. The river appears from a cave mouth and filters through a wide and naturally terraced ponds under the shade of the overhead forest canopy.

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Than Bok Korani

Lam Suk Temple

Large temple on prominent headland in upper Phung-nga bay with good views down the bay & islands - 40 min drive - Lam Suk seafood restaurant on the sea front is a good lunch stop

 

Caves @ Ao Luk

·         Info required

·         Klang Cave – Also used as a cave diving site

 

Cave at Phung-nga

·         Info required


Phi Phi Islands

These are some of the loveliest in Southeast Asia – also the busiest!. Just a 45-minute speedboat trip or a 90-minute ferryboat ride from either Phuket or Krabi, these picture postcard islands offer the ultimate tropical getaway. Featuring classic tropical beaches, stunning rock formations and vivid turquoise waters teeming with colourful marine life, it is paradise perfected. Phi Phi is a group of six islands. The two main islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The larger and inhabited Phi Phi Don attracts hundreds of visitors to stay on its lovely shores while the smaller uninhabited Phi Phi Leh hosts stunningly beautiful bays and beaches, including the world-famous Maya Bay, which was the set where “The Beach” (with Leonardo Di Caprio) was filmed.

We were surprised to find the seawater was reasonably clear around the Phi Phi islands allowing for good snorkelling.

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PhiPhi Island


Other Activities

Some other activities that our guests have completed while staying with us are listed below

Elephant Trekking

While we haven’t completed any elephant trekking ourselves – the animals up close are awesome. We have enjoyed going to the elephant camps with a big bunch of bananas for the elephants to eat.

The elephants are mainly fed pineapple plants (without the pineapple) which they smash against their legs to tenderize before eating.

There are two main elephant camps in Krabi

·         Nosey Parkers

·         Huay Tho Waterfall Safaris

The prices are cheaper for walk-in- we were quoted as low as 300bht/ person – Tour agents and mini vans add layers of commission.

The reviews are mainly good but many people don’t accept the elephant trekking and consider it animal exploitation- When compared to the traditional elephant work of illegal logging and clearing sections of old rubber trees plantations for replanting – I think I know which the elephants would choose. They all looked in good condition to us.. As a side note 10 years + ago there was an elephant camp quite close to Ecovilla and on a particular day the elephant while walking along the road, was annoyed by a motorbike riding too close by, so it knocked the motor bike and rider to the ground - The mahout tried to control the elephant aggressively by using his goad (pointed hook) as it headed towards the motor bike. The elephant then swung his trunk up and swept the mahout off this back and killed him on the spot. The elephant then started nudging his mahout as if to bring him back to life. It then gave up and sadly and slowly wandered off. The next day a truck came and picked up the elephant and took it away. The elephant camp ceased operation a few months later. I often wonder where that elephant is now. – The moral of the story is don’t annoy elephants!


Cobra Show

Again this wasn’t on our radar but a few guests came away impressed , with a few deadly selfies and family shots of the King Cobra’s – I guess its impressive and frightening, but Nim would have to be dragged there fighting every inch of the way.~ About 1500bht for 2 adults & 2 kids I was told.

Cobra show at Ao Nung (Not for the faint hearted)

 

Tree Top Adventure Park

Tree top Adventure park is located about 40km away in Ao Luk district.

It is a well-designed zip line adventure park. I have taken the kids there many times and they always have a good and safe workout in the trees. The natural jungle and large trees make it a cool experience unless your zip lining. There is about 4 different levels depending on your expertise  Cost is about 1500/person not including getting there

Parents can hang out on the terrace and watch the homo sapiens wiz by!

There is a side trip to a beautiful cave very close by which is full of stalactites and stalagmites – Torches and guide are available at the cave entrance.

Tree Top Adventure Park @ Ao Luk


Table 1 Important phone numbers for your stay in Krabi Province

Thailand International Phone prefix is +66

·            Dial 1669 from any mobile – this is a number for all emergencies.

·            TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) Regional Office: 075 622164

·            Krabi Tourist Police:                1155     075 637208

·            Marine Police:                         075 612756-57

·            Krabi Airport                            075 701473

·            Krabi Immigration:                  075 611097

·            Krabi Bus Terminal                 075 663503

·            Krabi Public Hospital:              075 626700

·            Krabi Nakharin Inter Hospital 075 626555

·            Eco Villa                                  075 664600     ecovilla@fastmail.fm

·            David                                       0862692020    ecovilla@fastmail.fm

·            Nim                                         0630817278

 


Table 2 Google map location co-ordinates & plus codes

Location

Co-ordinates

Plus code

Comment

Klong Sra Kaew natural swimming pool

8.1651951,98.8028702

8.1625696,98.8049978

6MWW5R83+34

6MWW5R73+2X

Amazon Jungle Pool – crystal clear freshwater pool  50/80 bht Entrance fee

Second location is access road entry point

Tham Sra Kaew deep ponds x 2

8.1688617,98.8074564

6MWW5R94+GX

Tham Sra Kaew deep freshwater ponds and cliffs - Cave diving & headwater of creek

Boat Ramp

8.1593879,98.7844655

6MWW5Q5M+QQ

End of Kayak trip A Local boat ramp 300m frm Ecovilla

End Kayak Trip B

8.1512906,98.7815580

6MWW5Q2J+GJ

End Trip B at End of Hwy 4034

Kayak Point @ Thalen

8.1434207,98.7472784

6MWW4PVW+8W

Hire of kayaks; Start/End of sea kayak tour Kit & Oi Ph 08 08849585

Kayak Entry/Exit

8.1434357,98.7507391

6MWW4QV2+97

Sea kayak tour Entry/Exit point

Canyon Kayak Entry/Exit

8.1370060,98.7569330

6MWW4QP4+RQ

Canyon Kayak Entry/Exit point

Chong Pli Climbing

8.0822939,98.8293962

6MWW3RJH+WQ

Nia Chong / Chong Pli climbing & bungalows Romano (Ph 084 6291550)

Real Rocks Climbing School

 

 

Tel: +66(0)890043708/ +66(0)807181351

www.realrocksclimbing.com

Long Beach

8.0455159,98.7890994

6MWW2QWQ+6J

Long beach access

Bang Rong pier

8.0496739,98.4158110

6MWW2CX8+V8

Bang Rong Pier – Phuket to/from Koh Yao

Thalen Pier

8.145947,98.7481283

6MWW4PWX+57

Thalen Pier; ferry to Koh Yao & Bung Rong pier

Chong Lad Pier

8.0756519,98.5860873

6MWW3HGP+7C

Koh Yao Yai – Chong Lad Pier to/frm Thalen

Loh Yak Pier

7.9332285,98.5747758

6MVWWHMF+7W

Koh Yao Yai – Loh Yak Pier (Transfer to/from Phuket town

Manah Pier

8.0937605,98.5873302

6MWW3HVP+GW

Koh Yao Noi – Manah Pier – ferry to/from Bung Rong Pier (Phuket)

Tha Khao pier

8.1346161,98.6721976

6MWW4JMG+RV

Koh Yao Noi- Tha Khao pier – to Thalen pier

Hat Nopparat Thara Pier

8.0476625,98.7985823

6MWW2QXX+3C

Hat Nopparat Thara Pier – Klong Hang Longtail moorings & tours Showers & toilet

Whale Bar

8.1508233,98.7403268

6MWW5P2R+84

Malinas Whale bar Restaurant & bungalows

Restaurant          Bai Toey

8.0580482,98.9198098

 

In Krabi town overlooking the river

Restaurant      Krua Thara

8.0471224,98.8002768

6MWW2RW2+R4

Very popular and not overly expensive Thai restaurant

Restaurant

The Terrace

8.1735355,98.7493537

 

In Thalen Overlooks Phung-nga Bay – popular for sunset meals & drinks

Restaurant            Ruanthip         

8.0769930,98.8049318

6MWW3RG3+QX

Large restaurant on creek – from very successful restaurant in town (same name)

Khao Phanom Bencha 

8.2407889,98.9139388

6MWW6R7+8H

Khao Phanom Bencha Waterfall & park entrance

 

Contact us

Ecovilla Farmstay

225 Moo1 Khaothong Muang; Krabi 81000 Thailand  Ph    +66 (0)75 664600

David

Mbl  +66 (0)862692020

Nim

Mbl  +66 (0)630817278

Facebook

Ecovilla Krabi

Web

http://ecovilla.fastmail.fm/

Email

ecovilla@fastmail.fm

Google Co-ordinates

8.1595874,98.7875370     6MWW5Q5Q+R2