Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool and Hot Springs Tour Krabi

The Emerald Pool

About an hour's drive south-east of Ao Nang, the Emerald Pool, known in Thai as Sa Morakot, lies in a protected lowland forest in the Khlong Thom district. Fed by warm springs filtering through limestone, its water is crystal clear and coloured a soft blue-green by the minerals on the bottom. A shaded boardwalk and nature trail lead through the forest to the pool, with tall trees, ferns and birdsong all around.

The pool is shallow and the water stays comfortably warm all year, so it is perfect for a swim in the cool of the morning, before the crowds arrive. Your guide explains the forest ecosystem along the way. If you are asking how to get to the Emerald Pool from Ao Nang without renting a car, this tour is the simplest way, and the entrance fee is included in the default option.

The Blue Pool

From the Emerald Pool, a forest trail continues to the Blue Pool, a small, deep spring whose water shines an intense milky blue. Large trees overhang the pool, their roots stretching across the water, and on still days the colour is so vivid that it looks unreal. It is one of the most photographed natural sights in Krabi.

Swimming is not allowed in the Blue Pool, to protect the delicate spring, but the walk through the jungle and the view make the visit worthwhile. Look for small fish in the clear streams and colourful butterflies along the path. The trail is mostly flat but can be muddy after rain, so wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent. After the walk, the group continues to a local restaurant, where you can choose lunch at your own expense.

The Hot Springs Waterfall

In the afternoon, the tour visits the Hot Springs Waterfall in Khlong Thom, one of the most unusual natural sights in southern Thailand. Here, water from underground hot springs, at around 40 °C, flows over a series of smooth limestone terraces and small cascades into a cool forest stream, so warm and cool water mix in natural pools.

You have time to soak and relax in the warm pools, which locals say ease tired muscles, and to cool off in the stream below. It is a wonderful break between the jungle walk and the climb at the temple. Bring a towel and a change of clothes, and avoid staying too long in the hottest pools. The Krabi hot springs are at their most pleasant in the drier months, from December to April.

Tiger Cave Temple

The last stop is Tiger Cave Temple, known locally as Wat Tham Suea, one of the most important temples in Krabi. At the foot of the hill, a cave temple holds Buddha images and rock formations, including marks that, according to local tradition, are the paw prints of a tiger that once lived in the cave, which gives the temple its name.

From the temple grounds, a staircase of more than 1,200 steep steps climbs to the summit, where a large golden Buddha statue looks out over limestone peaks, rice fields and the coast. The climb is strenuous and takes most people 30 to 60 minutes, but the view is one of the best in Thailand. Is Tiger Cave Temple worth visiting? For the view and the atmosphere, absolutely. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and keep food away from the monkeys.