Nestled in the heart of Krabi’s stunning natural landscape, the Ao Nang: Hot Spring, Emerald Pool & Tiger Cave Temple Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. From the therapeutic soak in the hot spring waterfall to the mesmerizing swim in the vivid Emerald Pool, this exhilarating one-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the true essence of Krabi. But the real highlight may lie in the challenge and reward of ascending the 1,260 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple, where breathtaking vistas and serene surroundings await the intrepid explorer.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Krabi Hot Springs.
Key Points
- This one-day excursion in Krabi features natural wonders like hot springs, Emerald Pool, and the Tiger Cave Temple cultural attraction.
- The tour is priced at $61.89 per person and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entry tickets, Thai lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
- Highlights include 45 minutes of soaking in natural warm waters, 1 hour of swimming in the Emerald Pool, and a 1.5-hour climb to the Tiger Cave Temple.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, but offers scenic experiences for active participants.
- Recommended items to bring include comfortable shoes, swimwear, and loose clothing, while certain items are restricted for safety and comfort.
Tour Overview
The Ao Nang: Hot Spring, Emerald Pool & Tiger Cave Temple Tour is a one-day excursion that provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy Krabi’s natural wonders and cultural attractions, offering a well-rounded experience for a reasonable price.
Priced from $61.89 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets, a Thai lunch, drinking water, insurance, and an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include relaxing in natural hot springs, swimming in the serene Emerald Pool, and conquering the 1,260 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple’s hilltop.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, but it promises scenic and enjoyable experiences for those who can participate.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Krabi Hot Springs.
Itinerary Highlights
Dotting the tour’s itinerary are several breathtaking highlights, starting with the relaxing Hot Spring Waterfall where visitors can soak in the natural 37-40°C warm waters for up to 45 minutes. The next stop is the Emerald Pool, where guests can enjoy the natural freshwater after a peaceful walk through the rainforest nature trail, spending around an hour there. The tour also includes a Thai lunch and a visit to the Tiger Cave Temple, which challenges hikers with 1,260 steps to the hilltop, rewarding them with stunning views, Buddha images, giant trees, and temple pagodas.
| Highlight | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Spring Waterfall | 45 minutes | Bathe in natural 37-40°C warm waters |
| Emerald Pool | 1 hour | Swim in the natural freshwater after a rainforest walk |
| Tiger Cave Temple | 1.5 hours | Climb 1,260 steps to the hilltop for scenic views and temple exploration |
Hot Spring Waterfall
First, visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural 37-40°C warm waters of the Hot Spring Waterfall, immersing themselves for up to 45 minutes. The cascading waterfall flows over a scenic cliffside, surrounded by lush, tropical greenery.
The mineral-rich water is believed to have therapeutic properties, soothing both the body and mind. Visitors can take their time, letting the warmth envelop them as they gaze upon the natural beauty of the setting.
Afterward, they’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to continue the day’s adventures at the Emerald Pool and Tiger Cave Temple. This stop offers a tranquil start to the tour, setting the tone for an immersive and memorable experience.
Emerald Pool
After the relaxing soak at the Hot Spring Waterfall, visitors can embark on a short nature trail walk through the rainforest to reach the enchanting Emerald Pool.
Here, they’ll have around an hour to swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters fed by natural springs. The pool’s vibrant green hue, which gives it its name, is a stunning sight to behold.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees, the Emerald Pool offers a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. Guests can take a refreshing dip, snap photos of the beautiful natural scenery, and simply revel in the tranquility of this hidden gem nestled within the heart of the Thai jungle.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThai Lunch
The tour includes a delectable Thai food set served at a local restaurant, providing participants with an authentic culinary experience amidst their day of exploring the region’s natural wonders. The Thai lunch offers a diverse array of flavors, from fragrant curries to fresh salads and sizzling stir-fries. Guests can savor the rich, complex tastes of traditional Thai cuisine, complemented by the tranquil setting of the restaurant. The meal is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the incredible flavors that make Thai food so beloved around the world.
| Dish | Description | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Yum Goong | Spicy and sour shrimp soup | Shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, fish sauce, lime juice |
| Pad Thai | Stir-fried rice noodles | Rice noodles, eggs, bean sprouts, crushed peanuts, tamarind sauce |
| Massaman Curry | Mild, coconut-based curry | Chicken, potatoes, onions, peanuts, coconut milk, spices |
Tiger Cave Temple
The Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, is a renowned meditation center and pilgrimage site nestled atop a lush, forested hill in Krabi, Thailand.
Visitors embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek, ascending 1,260 steps to reach the hilltop temple, which rewards them with stunning vistas, serene Buddha images, and the towering presence of ancient, giant trees.
At the summit, travelers can explore the temple’s pagodas, shrines, and meditation areas, seeing the spiritual atmosphere.
The journey up the steps is as much a physical challenge as it’s a spiritual one, offering visitors a chance to connect with the natural beauty and cultural significance of this remarkable site.
Transportation Details
Pickup for the tour is included from the hotel, with guests advised to wait in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The driver will hold a sign with the guest’s last name, and they shouldn’t wait any longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.
Pickup is also available at Railay Beach, from the Ao Num Mao pier. The transportation throughout the day is efficient and comfortable, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the scenic wonders of the tour without having to worry about navigating the roads.
Whether coming from the hotel or Railay Beach, the reliable transportation ensures a seamless and stress-free start to the Ao Nang adventure.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Guests’ packing list for the Ao Nang tour should include comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sandals, and loose, comfortable clothing.
Certain items, however, are restricted, such as pets, large bags or luggage, shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, alcohol and drugs, baby carriages, and electric wheelchairs.
This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants throughout the day’s activities, which include a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs, a refreshing swim in the emerald pool, and a challenging yet rewarding climb up the steps to the Tiger Cave Temple.
Following these guidelines will help make the tour a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a Thai lunch and drinking water, so outside food and beverages are not permitted. This is a common policy to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour has a set itinerary and schedule that cannot be altered. Customers are advised to review the tour details carefully to ensure it meets their needs and preferences.
Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?
Typically, travelers need a valid visa to participate in tours in Thailand. However, the specific visa requirements may vary depending on one’s nationality and the duration of the trip. It’s recommended to check with the tour provider or local embassy for the latest visa information.
Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own During the Tour?
No, participants generally cannot leave the group and explore on their own during guided tours. Tour operators typically require guests to stay with the group for safety, logistics, and to ensure the tour runs smoothly for everyone.
Is There a Weight or Height Limit for the Tiger Cave Temple Steps?
There’s no specified weight or height limit for the Tiger Cave Temple steps, but the climb may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The tour provider advises against it for people with impairments.
Recap
The Ao Nang tour offers an unforgettable day of discovery, immersing visitors in Krabi’s natural wonders and cultural treasures.
From the therapeutic hot springs to the captivating Emerald Pool and the challenging Tiger Cave Temple, this tour promises an exhilarating adventure that leaves travelers with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Thailand’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
You can check if your dates are available here: